Religion Degree Overview

Religion explores the deepest questions of human beings and is a central part of all civilizations and culture. We find religion everywhere--it is at the center of global issues and cultural conflict. Religion is an important field for those who want to be informed about the world around them and are looking for intellectual exploration. The Division of Religion and Theological Studies of the School of Arts and Sciences offers bachelor's degrees in adult religious education, religion, theological studies, church business management, religious education, religious studies, ministry, and inter cultural ministries. The religion program also offers master and doctoral degrees including master of divinity, master of theological studies, master of sacred music, master of sacred theology, doctor of ministry and doctor of theology. There are two main areas in the study of religion in the US today--theology and religious studies. Theology studies religion from the perspective of a particular community of believers. Religious studies is the academic study of religion and is a relatively new field that aims to treat all religious traditions evenly and from an un-biased perspective. Religious studies also utilizes tools from many other academic fields including philosophy, history, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and theology.

Religion Degree Curriculum

The curriculum for a traditional Christian religion program often includes courses such as church history and historical theology, missions, new testament, old testament, philosophy, theology, ethics, sociology of religion, pastoral psychology, research and methods, church music and arts, preaching, worship, administration, evangelism, spirituality, and practical theology. Usually courses in religious studies will review religious traditions from around the world, modern and ancient. The distinction between a religious school and a non-sectarian institution can be quite important, so a prospective student should research different schools closely before deciding. The study of religion will provide graduates with important skills such as gaining a fundamental cultural literacy, being able to interpret and express their positions on perplexing phenomena, exercising both their analytical skills and originality, and testing their ability to empathize with fellow human beings. Success in a religion program will largely depend on one's ability to make connections with people and incorporate many perspectives at once.

Careers in Religion

The study of religion can lead to several different career fields depending upon degree emphasis and the goal of the student. A graduate does not necessarily have to choose religion as the center of his/her professional career. Since most religion departments offer many fundamental skills including critical thinking, direct observation, and cross-cultural understanding, graduates will be in high demand. With some additional study, many students will go into professional careers including business, counseling, social work, education, journalism, medicine, and law. However, for those selecting a career within their field, such as a teacher, minister, priest, nun, or rabbi, the career opportunities are bright. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, positions for clergy members are expected to grow steadily in the next few years due to the spike in new churches and worship centers opening throughout the country, as well as religious mission opportunities in countries outside the U.S. In 2004, there were 422,000 jobs for religious leaders and theologians. Salaries will vary greatly depending on the selected field, industry, and occupation.

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