About Our Programs

The academic study of religion is central to democratic governance and careful thought in a complex world. Our program is designed for students who seek to thrive in a pluralistic society. Our courses and opportunities for research provide students with tools for better understanding the role that religions and religious ideas play in human societies and their relationships with the beyond-human world.  Because religion has contributed to the story of almost every culture, it is difficult to understand human behavior or to interpret world events without grasping how religion helped to shape them.

We offer a major and minor in Religious Studies, and a minor in Religious Literacy for Health Professions.  Students study foundations courses, traditions, religious writing and texts, and a broad selection of critical issues courses.  These elective courses cover everything from Anime and Religion, to Death, Dying and the Afterlife, to studies of the Supernatural and Yoga. The Study of Religion leads students to ask big questions, and acquire skills to hold sophisticated civil discourse, debate, and apply complex ideas to everyday problems.

We seek to:

• Introduce the methodologies of religious studies as an academic discipline.
• Advance the profession of religious studies through a commitment to scholarly research, publication, interpretation, and discussion.
• Support and accompany student explorations in expanding understanding of their own faith traditions and/or those of others.
• Cultivate an understanding of religious pluralism, including the complexly non-religious and so-called secular realms, to create critically aware and compassionate citizens in a religiously diverse world, and,
• Promote informed public dialogue about religion and its influence on society and culture, especially as it pertains to anti-racist and non-violent movements.

Career-Readiness

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) has identified eight Career Readiness Competencies - Career and Self-Development, Communication, Critical Thinking, Equity and Inclusion, Leadership, Professionalism, Teamwork, and Technology - that are in high demand by employers.

These skills help you navigate today’s job environment and adapt to changing work force conditions.  San Diego State University is committed to ensuring that you have exposure to these competencies through our General Education program and through the undergraduate and graduate degrees in support of your career aspirations.

The Study of Religion fosters several of NACE’s career readiness competencies within the undergraduate major in Religious Studies. Through close reading of sacred texts, analysis of historical and contemporary religious movements, and engagement with diverse worldviews, students cultivate critical thinking and communication skills. Classroom discussions and research projects foster collaboration and teamwork while encouraging respectful dialogue (equity and inclusion). By examining ethical systems and moral codes, students develop a deeper sense of social responsibility (self-development and professionalism). Research, digital projects, and information literacy build technological competence (technology and career development). Together, these experiences prepare graduates to navigate complex global environments with insight, adaptability, and integrity.

For more information, please visit the SDSU Career Services website.

For more information about our programs, please contact the advisor.

Advising

Professor Roy Whitaker

Office: AL-670
Email: [email protected]

Important Links:  Class Schedule |  SDSU Catalog |  Roadmap for Majors