Religion Major, B.A.
The religion major acquaints students with the world’s major religious traditions and helps students develop a critical understanding of the issues involved in the academic study of religion.
The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies recognizes that the fields of philosophy and religious studies, although distinct, nonetheless share many concerns and approaches, and they often address the same issues. Consequently, departmental faculty strongly recommend that students with religion majors and minors avail themselves of opportunities to enroll in philosophy courses.
Requirements for the Major
The major requires a minimum of 30 credits in religion at the 200 level or above, as well as a minimum of 15 credits at the 300-level or above, and must include courses within the following categories:
Religious Traditions (two courses):
Religious Practices:
| REL 200 | What is Religion? Introduction to Religious Studies | 3.0 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 3.0 |
And at least two of the following
| REL 211 | American Religious History | 3.0 |
| REL 233 | Eastern Religions | 3.0 |
| REL 312 | Holidays and Festivals | 3.0 |
| REL 314 | Western Spirituality:Contemporary Issues | 3.0 |
| ARRL 330 | Archaeology of Ancient Israel | 3.0 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 6.0 |
Religion and Social Change (one course):
| AFRL 311 | Black Theology | 3.0 |
| REL 342 | From Abolitionism to Human Rights | 3.0 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 3.0 |
Ethics and Critical Thinking in Religion:
And at least one of the following:
Two to three Religion electives (REL or RL) to complete the 30 credits required for the major. Electives may also include:
| PHIL 307 | History of Philosophy: The Ancient World to the Renaissance | 3.0 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 6.0 |