Program of Study (CAS Bulletin)

Religious Studies (2022 - 2024)

Major

The major in religious studies requires eight 4-point courses (32 points) completed with a grade of C or better (courses graded Pass/Fail do not count), which must include both of the following:

  • Theories and Methods in the Study of Religion (RELST-UA 1, offered only in the fall semester)
  • Advanced Seminar: Comparative Topics in the Study of Religion (RELST-UA 15, usually offered only in the spring semester)

Majors are expected to outline completion of core requirements and design a coherent plan of study (which may, with permission, include courses outside the religious studies curriculum) in consultation with the director of undergraduate studies.

Minor

The minor in religious studies requires four 4-point courses (16 points) completed with a grade of C or better (courses graded Pass/Fail do not count), which must include Theories and Methods in the Study of Religion (RELST-UA 1, offered only in the fall semester).

Honors Program

Eligibility: Students must spend at least two full years in residence at the College of Arts and Science, completing at least 64 points of graded work in the College. They must maintain a GPA of 3.65, both overall and in the religious studies major.

Requirements: Honors students must complete an additional two courses (8 points) above the requirements for the religious studies major (thus taking a total of ten courses/40 points). They register for two semesters of Independent Study (RELST-UA 997, 998) to conduct the research and writing of the thesis under the supervision of a departmental faculty member. The subject of the honors paper and the faculty supervisor are chosen in consultation with the director of undergraduate studies. The average length of the honors paper is approximately 30 double-spaced, typed pages.