The major in Religious Studies is designed to take full advantage of Washburn University’s unique resources as a public municipal institution in a state capital city. Courses will focus on religious traditions and communities from around the world as they are found in the modern United States of America. Introductory courses (RG 101 Introduction to the Study of Religion, RG 102 World Religions) include ethnographic components and local site visits. Core courses (culminating in RG 331 Understanding Religion) invite students to reflect on religious studies as an academic discipline and to position themselves within it. The major culminates in a senior thesis in which students use the theories and methods they’ve learned to analyze a particular religious community that they’ve studied in their elective coursework. Ultimately, religion majors develop a toolkit for understanding human beings in light of their ultimate concerns and the particular contexts in which they live.

Religious studies majors go on to find success in a number of pursuits after graduation. Some go on to graduate studies in religion, which can lead to a Ph.D. and a career in academia. Some go to seminary and seek ordination within their own religious communities. Most, however, go on to graduate study in other areas or find work in business, government, or the non-profit/NGO world. Because religion is pervasive in human experience, studying it provides a foundation for engaging people within any sphere of life.

Degree Requirements

In addition to the requirements stated below, students must complete 34-35 hours of General Education, all requirements for a Bachelor of Arts degree, and any additional hours needed to reach the minimum 120 credit hours required for graduation.Some of the courses below may also fulfill general education or other degree requirements.  Please see your advisor for more information.

In addition, all Religious Studies majors must declare and then meet the requirements for a minor, a second major, or a certificate in order to graduate.

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
Required Courses Inside Department
RG 101	Introduction to the Study of Religion	3
RG 102	World Religions	3
RG 331	Understanding Religion	3
RG 398	Capstone Preparation	3
RG 399	Religious Studies Capstone	3
Choose one of the following:		3
PH 100	Introduction to Philosophy
PH 201	Corrupting the Youth: Ancient Greek Philosophy
PH 203	Introduction to Buddhist Philosophy
PH 207	Existence of God
PH 301	I think therefore I am? Modern Philosophy 1600-1800	3
Subtotal		21
Additional Required Courses
Select additional courses 1		12
Total Hours		33

¹

At least nine must be RG and at least nine must be upper division courses. External courses require advisor’s prior approval.