Religious Studies

The Department of Religious Studies offers a major program in religious studies (HEGIS 1510) leading to a BA degree. The major allows students flexibility in designing a program around such areas as sacred texts and spirituality, religious traditions in dialogue, as well as contemporary theological and ethical questions. In addition, the department offers core courses and electives. The department also offers a minor in religious studies.

Faculty

Chair: R. Umashankar; Professors: K. Paffenroth, E. Procario-Foley; Professors Emeriti: B. Brown, K. Deignan; Associate Professor: R. Umashankar; Clinical Lecturers: J. Robinson, S. Williams

Objectives

Religious Studies holds a significant place in the liberal arts curriculum, particularly in an institution founded in the Catholic tradition of higher education. The core courses, electives and major and minor programs seek to introduce students to the field of religion as an area open to disciplined scholarly inquiry; to assist students in developing an understanding of the nature and complexity of religious phenomena and experience; to acquire an appreciation of the critical problems and issues involved in the study of religion; and to provides students with the tools for reflection and cross-religious dialogue.

Programs

• Religious Studies, BA (1510)

• Religious Studies Minor