COLLEGE OF Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

The Department of Religious Studies offers students the opportunity to engage in the academic study of religion.  Because our era is characterized by a resurgence of religion in the public sphere, we see that religion has become central to contemporary culture, politics, identity, and conflict in every part of the globe.  At the same time, our world is marked by an emerging pluralism, as globalization, migration, and technology bring diverse religious communities in closer proximity, and create new religious communities as well.

Drawing on a host of academic disciplines, religious studies challenges students to encounter the traditions of the world in all their rich diversity, and also prepares them to facilitate the important conversations of our day. Further, students may find that the study of religions can help them respond not only to political, social and environmental challenges, but also to existential questions faced by all peoples.

Ever wonder about the relationship between race and religion? Listen to Dr. Chernoh Sesay, Assistant Professor of Religious Studies being interviewed by Dr. David Wellman, Director of Center for Interreligious Engagement and Associate Professor of Religious Studies. Click on the image to go to the YouTube video.