2013-2014 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog
Religious Studies - Program Description
For additional information about opportunities your college offers, please refer to the Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies section in this catalog.
Program Coordinator: Maodush-Pitzer. Advising Faculty: Drewel, Kopperl, Maodush-Pitzer, Rowe, Smith, Whipps.
Website: www.gvsu.edu/rel/
The diverse and often contested religious/cultural perspectives in our contemporary world demonstrate the need for leaders who are educated in religious history and tradition and who have the capability of critically examining their own cultural assumptions while engaging in dialogue with global and local populations. An academic, critical understanding of the worlds religions provides a foundation for understanding diverse ideas and cultures. This is particularly important in our post-9/11 culture, where religion is playing such a significant role in political movements and cross-cultural dialogue.
The religious studies major provides core courses along with flexibility. Students have the option of focusing on particular religious traditions through electives in a range of global traditions and disciplinary perspectives. Students are encouraged to work closely with their advisor to determine the electives portion of the major. Close collaboration with faculty in the program through advising, student-centered coursework and independent study opportunities is an important part of the religious studies major.
Career Opportunities
A religious studies major is a good foundation for careers such as in law, business, journalism, public policy, international development, and humanitarian services. Understanding religious issues enhances ones preparation for careers in such fields as criminal justice, international relations, education and government. Religious Studies supplements and extends the work of other majors and would be an excellent minor or second major for careers that deal with ethical, cultural or philosophical issues.
Graduate and Professional School Opportunities
Religious Studies can be a foundation for graduate work in many disciplines in the humanities and social sciences.
The following programs are available:
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Religious Studies