Major in Religion — Know Your Why! Majoring in religion not only prepares you to make a living–developing the skills and durable wisdom (critical thinking, creativity, leadership, problem-solving) that employers seek–but also encourages you to make a life worth living, one that goes far beyond the work you get paid for. Majoring in religion impels students to “know your why,” the core motivations that drive your actions and give your life meaning. “Knowing your why” increases your motivation and boosts your commitment, especially in difficult times. It fosters lives of authenticity and integrity, rooted in the core values you explore in your religion courses. “Knowing your why” also nourishes leadership of character and commitment, dedicated to the common good, as seen in our graduates who become doctors, lawyers, journalists and authors, artists, public servants, teachers, and faith leaders, to name but a few.
But why religion? Living with the Big Questions!
When the objects of study are beyond the limits of finite human understanding and as old as human beginnings, one can never be satisfied with pat answers to the deepest questions of human existence. Studying religion in all its diversity means living with the big questions: Who are we? Where do we come from? What are we for? What should life be–and why isn’t it? How do we repair it? Divining the answers is the ultimate liberal arts experience, engaging sacred texts, history, sociology, philosophy, theology, psychology, science, and the arts. Studying religion equips thinkers and doers with intellectual breadth and critical discernment, rooted in the realities of the world and inspired by dreams of what’s possible.
How do I explore the religion major?
A good place to start is a conversation with a religion professor or the religion department chair (that’s me!). Signing up for an additional religion course is also a great way to explore if the major speaks to you. For help discerning how to complete a major, check out the religion major requirements. Most of our majors are double (and even some triple!) majors, and they appreciate the size (8 courses) and flexibility of the major, making it easy to fit in (especially since completing the two OLECore requirements in religion means you already have 25% of the major covered). Since religion majors get reserved seating in religion courses, registration is easy and you can take the classes you most want to take. There are plenty of research opportunities and study abroad experiences, as well as academic events and social gatherings for majors during the year.
I’m in! How do I declare a major?
It is easy! Go to SIS and look for the “Forms and Links” tab on the left. Select “Declare a Major,” choose “Religion,” and hit submit! Be sure to visit the chair’s office (Old Main 130-D) to pick up your welcome stickers and ask any questions that you may have!
Addie Flesch, class of 2026 (Religion, Psychology, Environmental Studies concentration)
I study religion because people need to feel connected to something greater than themselves for their well-being. At its best, religion channels that sense of connection into a motivating force for justice, benefiting not only humans but all of creation.
Why do I study Religion?
Solveig Senf, class of 2027 (Religion Quantitative Economics; concentration in Statistics and Data Science):
Part of the reason I chose St. Olaf was because it promises an opportunity to explore vocation–a sense of meaning in life, community, and career. For me, exploring one’s vocation is deeply tied to a question I often return to: “How to love this world?” Religion, more than any other discipline, takes that question seriously. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to spend dedicated time exploring and engaging with different possible answers.
Benji Zupfer, class of 2027 (Religion and Physics; concentration in Engineering Studies):
I study religion because there are so many niches to explore, and you can make it your own. Some choose to study the major religions, learn their primary doctrines, and compare each of them. Others may take classes about the history of religious practice and the philosophy behind religion in general. Still, others dive into the secular, the abstract, or even the very niche and particular. The best part? There is no wrong answer. Go as deep or as shallow as you’d like. Learn to accept you’ll never know all the answers. Start to view the world through a broader lens informed by lived experience and intensive study. Meet with professors to refine your paper into something you’re proud to put your name on. If any of these sound appealing to you, the religion major makes it possible!
Claire Miller, class of 2029 (Religion and Biology; concentration in Environmental Studies): I study religion because it’s a wonderful lens with which to look at faith, and faith is what I believe to be the most fundamental aspect of human existence. How humbling, frustrating and delightful it is to learn about something that doesn’t make sense!
Jonah Hoch, class of 2029 (Religion): I study religion because I can confidently say that I know nothing. In a world that is so sure of reality, religion makes us question the breadth of our understanding. It confronts our presuppositions about the world itself. Religion, and to a greater extent theology, forces us to admit our inability, and extol the mystery.
Mason Buendorf, class of 2026 (Religion, Economics): I study religion because it equips me for dialogue, discernment, and responsible participation in society while also helping me think deeply about truth, values, and what it means to live well.
Hailie Frederickson, class of 2028 (Religion, Nursing): I study Religion because it’s a little bit of everything! From anthropology, geography, linguistics, and history, to economics; religion is everywhere! I think the unique transdisciplinarity of the field of religion makes me a better student, person, neighbor, and citizen.