Why Study Religion?

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!