Religious Studies

Program Overview

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Program Overview

Faculty: Faculty of Arts Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts Delivery: In-person Department: Religious Studies Department

About Religious Studies

Religious Studies is an interdisciplinary field that covers a broad cross-section of what it means to be human, and how such questions have been answered throughout history and around the world. The program provides a strong basis for compassionate global citizenship and global cultural literacy. Together, we analyze fundamental questions relating to the meaning of human existence.

Why Study Religious Studies at StFX?

The StFX Religious Studies Department is growing, and in addition to traditional courses, innovative studies covering topics that range from ancient and modern mythology (superheroes) to cults and new religious movements are offered. Students learn from dedicated faculty who work in the areas of ethics, religion, and health, possess extensive knowledge in the study of mindfulness, and bring a strong ability to work in ancient languages and a variety of modern languages.

The department offers a wide range of courses dealing with both Western and Eastern religious traditions and cultures. Contemporary issues are also examined in various courses in connection with religions, and students are encouraged to become familiar with the primary texts (in translation) of various religions.

The Department's courses are intended for a broad range of undergraduate students who may complete a major, advanced major, or honours in religious studies. Students in other disciplines can expect their appreciation of those disciplines to be enriched through a study of religion.

First Year at a Glance

Religious Studies courses examine the relationship between religion, the individual, and society, recognizing that the answers provided by religions both shape and are shaped by societies. As a first-year student, you will study indigenous traditions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and contemporary religious movements.

Future Opportunities

Familiarity with the world’s religious traditions is increasingly essential in healthcare, government, or any public-facing or global field. A host of career options are associated with Religious Studies, including but not limited to:

• Clergyperson
• Education / Teacher
• Historian
• International Development
• Journalist
• Lawyer
• Politics
• Professor
• Social Worker

Student Testimonial

In my first year, I took RELS 103 – World Religions: What You Need to Know, which was taught in a rather untraditional way – by 5 different professors! Each religion was taught by the professor who specializes in it, showing just how much the department prioritizes giving its students the best education possible. It gave us a great opportunity to learn from the best even though it was only an introductory course. Since then, I have continued taking extremely interesting RELS courses such as Cults and Alternative Religions, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them in World Religions, and Superheroes and the Supernatural. Overall, the Religious Studies department is home to some of the most caring, knowledgeable, and engaging professors that I have met over my academic career.

Renee Papp

Student

Residences

MacIsaac Hall

MacIsaac Hall is an impressive traditional residence located near the StFX campus football field. Students can make use of such amenities as laundry facilities, hockey storage, common areas and a TV lounge. The Hall is also known for having the largest double rooms on campus.

Bishops Hall

Bishops Hall was opened as a student residence in 1963. It is so named because of the individual residences it encompasses: Burke, Fraser, and Plessis, named in honour of three bishops who had early connections with the Diocese of Antigonish. Students in residence at Bishops Hall will feel right at home and live in comfort. Various amenities include shared kitchen facilities on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floor, laundry facilities, room storage, common areas and a tv lounge.

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Life in Antigonish

We are a small town with big things to offer. Consider us your home away from home!

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StFX Location

StFX espi-kina’matno’kuom etek Mi’kma’ki, wejkwa’taqanik Mi’kmaq maqamikewmuew mna’q iknmuetu’tik. Nalikitquniejk na Mi’kmawey wisun wjit Antigonish teluek Aklasie’w-iktuk, ‘place where branches are torn off.’

StFX is located in Mi’kma’ki, the unceded ancestral territory of the Mi'kmaw people. The Mi'kmaw name for Antigonish is Nalikitquniejk, meaning ‘place where branches are torn off.’

Program Outline

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Religious Studies at St. Francis Xavier University

It fosters global cultural literacy and promotes compassionate global citizenship, encouraging students to critically analyze questions of meaning and purpose throughout history and across diverse cultures.

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Objectives:

• Develop a deep understanding of various religious traditions and their influence on individuals and societies.
• Learn to engage in critical analysis of religious texts, practices, and beliefs.
• Hone critical thinking and communication skills for effective articulation of ideas and arguments.
• Foster intercultural understanding and appreciate the diversity of human experiences.
• Equip students with knowledge and skills relevant to contemporary issues and global challenges.

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Program Description:

The Religious Studies program offers a diverse and flexible curriculum, catering to students with varying interests and goals. It covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Indigenous traditions
• Hinduism
• Buddhism
• Taoism
• Confucianism
• Judaism
• Christianity
• Islam
• Contemporary religious movements
• Ethical issues in healthcare
• Religion and society
• Mindfulness and spirituality
• Ancient languages
Students can choose from a variety of program options:
• Major: Requires completion of 30 credit hours of Religious Studies courses.
• Advanced Major: Requires completion of 45 credit hours of Religious Studies courses.
• Honours: Requires completion of 45 credit hours of Religious Studies courses, including a thesis project.
The program also encourages interdisciplinary exploration, allowing students to combine their Religious Studies studies with other areas of interest.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

The Religious Studies program focuses on the exploration of various religious traditions and their impact on individuals and societies. It delves into historical, philosophical, and cultural aspects of religion, examining diverse perspectives and fostering critical analysis.

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Structure:

The program offers a flexible structure, allowing students to choose their areas of focus and tailor their studies to their individual interests. This is achieved through a combination of:

• Core Courses: Introduce foundational concepts and provide a broad overview of different religious traditions.
• Elective Courses: Enable students to deepen their knowledge in specific areas of interest within Religious Studies.
• Interdisciplinary Options: Allow students to combine their Religious Studies studies with other disciplines, enhancing their understanding and career prospects.

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Course Schedule:

The Religious Studies program offers a diverse range of courses, with schedules varying depending on the semester and student choices. Students can find the most up-to-date course offerings on the StFX website.

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Individual Modules:

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Indigenous Traditions:

• Examines the diverse spiritual beliefs and practices of Indigenous peoples around the world.
• Analyzes the impact of colonization and explores issues of cultural continuity and revival.

Hinduism:

• Delves into the rich history, philosophy, and practices of Hinduism.
• Explores key concepts such as karma, dharma, reincarnation, and moksha.

Buddhism:

• Investigates the core principles and diverse schools of thought within Buddhism.
• Examines the teachings on suffering, meditation, and the path to enlightenment.

Taoism and Confucianism:

• Explores the philosophical and ethical foundations of Taoism and Confucianism.
• Analyzes their influence on Chinese culture and society.

Judaism:

• Examines the history, traditions, and beliefs of Judaism.
• Studies the Hebrew Bible and explores key concepts such as covenant and messiah.

Christianity:

• Investigates the origins, development, and diverse expressions of Christianity.
• Analyzes the New Testament and explores key theological concepts.

Islam:

• Examines the history, beliefs, and practices of Islam.
• Studies the Quran and explores key principles such as Tawhid and Sharia.

Contemporary Religious Movements:

• Investigates the emergence and development of new religious movements in the modern world.
• Analyzes their social, cultural, and political impact.

Ethical Issues in Healthcare:

• Examines ethical dilemmas faced in healthcare and explores the role of religion in medical decision-making.
• Discusses issues such as end-of-life care, organ donation, and medical ethics.

Religion and Society:

• Analyzes the complex relationship between religion and society in various cultural contexts.
• Explores the role of religion in shaping social norms, values, and institutions.

Mindfulness and Spirituality:

• Examines the concept of mindfulness and its applications in various spiritual traditions.
• Explores the role of mindfulness in promoting well-being and enhancing self-awareness.

Ancient Languages:

• Offers opportunities to learn ancient languages such as Hebrew, Greek, and Sanskrit.
• Enhances students' abilities to access and analyze primary religious texts in their original forms.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

The Religious Studies program employs various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and understanding of course material. These methods may include:

• Exams: Evaluate students' knowledge and understanding of key concepts and theories.
• Presentations: Assess students' communication skills, research abilities, and critical thinking.
• Class Participation: Evaluates students' engagement in classroom discussions, active listening, and participation in group activities.
• Research Projects: Assess students' ability to conduct independent research, analyze data, and present findings effectively.

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Assessment Criteria:

Assessments in the Religious Studies program are evaluated based on specific criteria that vary depending on the assessment method used. However, common criteria include:

• Accuracy: Demonstrating correct understanding of course content and relevant concepts.
• Analysis: Ability to engage in critical analysis of materials and arguments.
• Depth: Demonstrating insightful understanding and exploring complex issues.
• Originality: Ability to formulate original thoughts and effectively communicate personal perspectives.
• Research: Conducting thorough research, utilizing appropriate sources, and presenting findings effectively.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The Religious Studies program utilizes diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and promote active engagement. Some common methods include:

• Interactive Lectures: Professors deliver engaging lectures and facilitate discussions to stimulate critical thinking and encourage active participation.
• Seminars: Small group discussions allow for in-depth exploration of topics, critical analysis of texts, and exchange of ideas among students.
• Group Projects: Collaborative projects encourage teamwork, research, analysis, and effective communication of findings.
• Case Studies: Exploring real-world scenarios and ethical dilemmas through case studies develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Guest Speakers: Invited experts and practitioners share their expertise and insights, enriching students' understanding of diverse perspectives.

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Faculty:

The Religious Studies program at StFX boasts a dedicated and experienced faculty with expertise in various areas of religious studies. The faculty members engage actively in research and scholarship, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and bringing fresh perspectives to the classroom. Students benefit from close interaction with professors and access to their guidance and mentorship.

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Unique Approaches:

The Religious Studies program at StFX embraces several unique approaches to learning:

• Interdisciplinary Focus: Encourages students to explore connections between religious studies and other disciplines, fostering a broader understanding of the human experience.
• Global Perspective: Explores religious traditions from diverse cultural contexts, enhancing students' global awareness and understanding of human diversity.
• Community Focus: Fosters a supportive and inclusive learning environment through open discussions, respectful dialogue, and shared exploration of diverse perspectives.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

The Religious Studies program at StFX prepares students for a wide range of careers in various fields, including:

• Education: Teaching positions in schools, colleges, or universities.
• Clergy: Leading religious communities, providing spiritual guidance, and performing religious ceremonies.
• Healthcare: Addressing ethical issues in healthcare settings, providing spiritual care, and working with diverse patient populations.
• International Development: Working with non-governmental organizations, addressing global issues, and promoting cross-cultural understanding.
• Government: Working in policy development, diplomacy, and international relations.
• Journalism and Media: Reporting on religious issues, analyzing cultural trends, and fostering public understanding of diverse perspectives.
• Law: Advocating for religious freedom, human rights, and social justice.
• Public Relations and Communications: Working with organizations to promote their missions and engage effectively with diverse audiences.
• Research and Academia: Pursuing advanced studies, conducting research in religious studies, and contributing to academic scholarship.

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Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the Religious Studies program at StFX are well-equipped for a diverse range