Why Elms for your Religious Studies degree?

  • Unpack the historical, theological, and cultural underpinnings of diverse religious traditions, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
  • Work closely with faculty to prepare for graduate school or, for Catholic students, careers in ministry as a lay or ordained member of the Church.
  • Gain hands-on experience in religious education and ministry through internships, volunteer programs with local nonprofits, and mission trips.

The Elms College religious studies program allows you to study a subject that speaks to the person, the community, and the world. Students can study diverse religious traditions such as Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism as a foundation for graduate study in comparative religion, the role of religion in society, and interfaith dialogue.

The undergraduate major in religious studies meets the needs of students who want to explore the foundations of Christianity, with an eye toward graduate study, as well as the Catholic who might be interested in ministry as a lay or ordained member of the Church.

Religious studies graduates often complete advanced degrees and work in churches, community service organizations, and nonprofit organizations that improve the quality of life for people everywhere.

Curriculum

Click to view course requirements for the Religious Studies (B.A.).

(Minimum at Elms College: 21 credits/Minimum GPA: 2.3)

Core Religious Studies Requirements (36 credits)

Course #Course Name# of Credit Hours
REL 1001Contemporary Catholicism3
REL 2002Sacraments3
REL 2004Contemporary Christian Ethics3
REL 2008Hebrew Scriptures3
REL 2100Christian Scriptures3
REL 2102Images of Jesus3
REL 3006The Church3
REL 3206A Reasoned Faith3
REL 4107Christian Spiritual Journey3
Choose three courses: REL 2101-4205 (formerly REL 211-425)

Click to view course requirements for the Religious Studies minor.

Minor in Religious Studies (18 credits)

Course #Course Name# of Credit Hours
REL 1001Contemporary Catholicism3
Choose five REL electives (15 credits)