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 # | Formerly | Course Name | # of Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| REL 1001 | REL 101 | Contemporary Catholicism | 3 |
| REL 2002 | REL 202 | Sacraments | 3 |
| REL 2004 | REL 204 | Contemporary Christian Ethics | 3 |
| REL 2008 | REL 208 | Hebrew Scriptures | 3 |
| REL 2100 | REL 210 | Christian Scriptures | 3 |
| REL 2102 | REL 212 | Images of Jesus | 3 |
| REL 3006 | REL 306 | The Church | 3 |
| REL 3206 | REL 326 | A Reasoned Faith | 3 |
| REL 4107 | REL 417 | Christian Spiritual Journey | 3 |
| 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 # | Formerly | Course Name | # of Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| REL 1001 | REL 101 | Contemporary Catholicism | 3 |
| Choose five REL electives (15 credits) |