Religious Studies

About this field

The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies is a diverse department with a dual track major program that leads to a B. A. degree with a major in Philosophy and Religious Studies and a concentration in either Philosophy or Religious Studies. We also offer minor programs in philosophy, religious studies, and professional and applied ethics. The Environmental Studies minor is also housed in the department. Students who concentrate in Religious Studies investigate the diversity of religious thought and practice from multicultural perspectives, exploring how religion shapes values, norms, and public policies in societies worldwide. The religious studies courses encourage multiple disciplinary approaches toward religious expression, whether in art, literature, politics, social conflict, language, history, or gender studies. The overarching goal is to understand the meaning of religion, with sympathetic insight into religious communities, and to analyze the dynamic influences of religion on social development and cultural transformation throughout history and around the globe. The religious studies curriculum provides students the freedom to shape their coursework around their own interests in religion. Religious Studies enables students to communicate effectively with people from diverse cultural and religious traditions in the spirit of world citizenship.

The Valdosta State Difference

The main strength of the department is its diverse and productive faculty, housed in Ashley Hall, an award-winning, multi-million dollar historic renovation which was completed in 2012. This experienced group is dedicated to teaching and is characterized by a wide-range of interests, teaching styles, and specialties. The department is active in Study Abroad including recent programs in Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Japan, and China. A second major strength of the department is the innovative, dual-track curriculum which is integrated through core requirements. This approach is unique but the dual track involving both philosophy and religious studies courses allows for cross-listing of classes which helps students to customize degree programs and to achieve individual goals. A third major strength of the department is its student orientation, and the record of success established by students within the department, and after graduation. The relatively small nature of the department means that faculty can get to know students, and to attempt to meet student needs. Classes and assignments can be personalized thereby helping students better prepare for work or graduate school. The department offers a Philosophy and Religious Studies Club and honor societies for both tracks. Relationships are continued with students after they graduate and take on the status of alumni.

What You'll Learn

The student will learn: to interpret the world’s religious traditions as well as the ability to explain their influence on values, norms, and public policies; to apply critical and analytical skills in analyzing multiple religious perspectives; to identify and evaluate one’s own self-understanding; and to create independent research by synthesizing various sources including sacred texts, religious auto/biographies, and other secondary sources.

Careers

• Business
• Clergy
• Employee Relations
• Journalist
• Lawyer
• Lobbyist
• Mediator
• Ministry
• Non-profit Administration
• Public Administration