Religious Studies
Campus Box 1065
One Brookings Drive
St. Louis, MO 63130-4899
(314) 935-8677

Why Major in Religious Studies?

In-depth study of religion is concerned with the most fundamental values and the deepest value conflicts of human individuals and communities. In this program, you will explore central questions about the human condition in a critical, but empathetic manner. In addition, since the academic study of religion is intrinsically multicultural and international in nature, majoring in religious studies will inevitably broaden your cultural horizons and increase your knowledge and experience of global human diversity. Finally, because the program's faculty is drawn from different disciplines, religious studies will expand your familiarity with the disciplinary approaches available in the humanities and social sciences and will make you think seriously about linkages among these different academic endeavors. The major will prepare you for careers in education, research, and business as well as law, health care, social work, and religious professions.

WHY STUDY RELIGION?
A website devoted to the question: Why Study Religion?

Advisors

As a major or a minor, your advisor will be one of the full-time faculty members in the Religious Studies Program. Your advisors will know you personally and will help you individualize your studies. Should you decide to choose a program of professional or graduate study, your advisor will provide you with assistance in identifying programs suited to your needs.

Combined Programs

Many students undertake a concentration in Religious Studies as a complement to a program of preprofessional studies in another department or college of Washington University. On average, at least half of our majors also major in another discipline or program.