Department of Religious Studies

Bucher (Chair), Bach, J. Long, M. Long, Newton, Sadd

For more information, please visit the Department’s website or check your course syllabi, which are available through the course instructor or at the High Library.

The Department of Religious Studies offers students a wide range of perspectives and a wealth of information on one of the most controversial and fascinating topics in the contemporary world: religion.

The Department provides all students, even those pursuing other majors and minors, with rich opportunities to explore the religious and spiritual dimensions of life, culture, and society. Degrees in Religious Studies have a broad focus and incorporate fields that include philosophy, theology, ethics, history, anthropology, archaeology, comparative literature, linguistics, psychology, and sociology.

Religious Studies students are active academics in search of purposeful life work, and the Department challenges them to undertake careers that address the needs of the world. Majors in Religious Studies receive intense preparation designed to help them pursue theological study and ministry training at the graduate level, continue their academic study of religion, or make meaningful contributions in the many vocations they choose. Graduates establish successful careers in teaching and ministry, as well as in diverse fields such as law and public policy.

In keeping with mission of the College, Religious Studies professors often explore ways in which religious beliefs, practices, and traditions promote peacemaking within the human community and the wider world. The Department contributes to an interdisciplinary major in Interfaith Leadership Studies and interdisciplinary minors in Peace and Conflict Studies, Asian Studies, and Women and Gender Studies.

Following the Church of the Brethren heritage of the College, Religious Studies faculty members also foster an understanding of Brethren history and commitments to peace, justice, and service. This special emphasis includes the Department’s sponsorship of a minor in Anabaptist and Pietist Studies.

Majors Offered

The Department offers a major in Religious Studies and participates in the interdisciplinary Interfaith Leadership Studies major.

Minors Offered

The Department offers a Religious Studies minor and participates in the interdisciplinary minors in Interfaith Leadership Studies , Peace and Conflict Studies , Anabaptist and Pietist Studies , Women and Gender Studies , and Asian Studies .

Honors in the Discipline

The Department of Religious Studies participates in the College Honors in the Discipline Program. For guidelines, students should consult the Department Chair.