Program Overview

Religious Studies

Overview

The study of world religions offers a deeper understanding of global cultures and belief systems to address life's biggest questions. Religion has been a central force in world history, and it continues to play a powerful role in the human experience. The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies provides students with a broad understanding of human diversity, the complexities of social and cultural systems of thought, and the human pursuit of meaning. Coursework examines the dynamic traditions of world religions, the role of religion in global politics, the relationship of religion and science, and the religious dimensions of art and culture. Combined with core academic skills in written and oral communication, the Religious Studies degree prepares students to become independent thinkers and problem solvers in the 21st century.

Learning Outcomes

• Recognize religious diversity and explain its history and its role in a globalized world.
• Research, interpret, and communicate ideas and data effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrate increased research-based knowledge of religion and world religions and compare this data to popular stereotypes and misconceptions of religions.
• Demonstrate independent critical thinking by assessing and critiquing scholarly discourse and developing and supporting original ideas.

Program Details

Sample Courses

• RELI 304: The Question of God
• RELI 312: Christian Mysticism
• RELI 404: Religion, Gender and the Body

Career Fields

• Criminal justice
• Education
• International aid
• Religion
• Social work

Level of Math

• General Knowledge: This strand involves the general understanding and appreciation of how mathematics is used to solve problems in everyday life.

Level of Second Language

• 4th Semester Proficiency: Fourth-semester skill level in a second language is required.

Pre-major Required?

• No

This Major's College

• College of Humanities

Degree

• Bachelor of Arts

Sample Plans

4-Year Sample Plan

• 1st Semester
  • ENGL 101 - First Year Composition
  • Second Language
  • MATH
  • GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
  • HUMS 101 - College Success and Building Community (recommended)
• 2nd Semester
  • ENGL 102 - First Year Composition
  • Second Language
  • GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
  • GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
  • Introduction to the General Education Experience (Entry Course)
• 3rd Semester
  • Second Language
  • GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
  • GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
  • GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
  • General Elective
• 4th Semester
  • Second Language
  • RELI 200 - Introduction to the Study of Religion
  • GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
  • Upper Division General Elective
  • General Elective
• 5th Semester
  • Major Course - Approaches to Religious Studies
  • Major Course - Asian Religions
  • Upper Division General Elective
  • Minor Course
  • General Elective
• 6th Semester
  • Major Course - Abrahamic Religions
  • Upper Division Major Course - Indigenous Religions
  • Minor Course
  • Minor Course
  • Upper Division General Elective
  • General Education Portfolio (Exit Course)
• 7th Semester
  • Upper Division Major Concentration Course
  • Upper Division Major Concentration Course
  • Upper Division Minor Course
  • Upper Division Minor Course
  • Upper Division General Elective
• 8th Semester
  • Upper Division Major Concentration
  • Upper Division Major Elective Course
  • Upper Division Minor Course
  • Upper Division General Elective

Map Transfer Coursework

• Enter your coursework from Arizona universities or community colleges to see how they can map to this major.
• Connect with The University of Arizona Academic Advisors to validate how your coursework will transfer.

Pathways

• See the pathway agreement in place between Arizona in-state community colleges and The University of Arizona.
• To see a pathway, select an Arizona college: Select an Arizona community college Pima Community College.
• Pathways are designed for in-state transfer students who plan to attend The University of Arizona. Please use this information for reference only. To develop an individualized plan for transfer, work with your community colleges and The University of Arizona Academic Advisors.
• All Pathways have accurate course equivalencies but may not include all possible requirements and are subject to change at any time. All posted Pathways (except Bachelor of Applied Science Pathways) fulfill an AGEC and most also fulfill an Associate Degree. Following a Pathway does not guarantee admission to The University of Arizona or to a specific UArizona college, major, or program.
• To learn more about AGECs and transferring within Arizona, visit aztransfer.com.