Skip to main content

Department of Philosophy Religious Studies Minor

Minor

Religious studies is the comparative and interdisciplinary exploration of the world’s religions. Because religion is at the core of human culture and is a powerful force shaping human history, the study of religion gives students a broad knowledge of the history of the world and the diversity of human cultures.  Study in this discipline focuses on empathetic understanding of human diversity and trains students in the skill of effective communication across cultural divides.   

The religious studies minor consists of a minimum of 18 credits, at least 9 of which must be at the 300 level, including:

  1. Introduction to the Study of Religion – One course (3 credits): Rel 202 (Introduction to the Study of Religion).
  2. Global Religions 1, Asian and Indigenous Traditions – Two courses (6 credits) selected from: Rel 100 (Religions of Asia), Rel 307 (Religion and Health), Rel 333 (Women and Goddesses in India), Rel 340 (Buddhism), Rel 341 (Religions of India, or Phil 105 (Philosophy and Religion of India and China).
  3. Global Religions 2, Western Traditions – Two Courses (6 credits) selected from: Rel 101 (Judaism, Christianity, Islam), Rel 302 (Religion and Cultural Conflict), Rel 303 (Jewish Scriptures), Rel 304 (New Testament and Early Christianity), Rel 311 (Religion in America), Rel 330 (Women and Religion).
  4. Electives – A minimum of one course (3 credits) from religious studies and relevant interdisciplinary courses.

Joining the Philosophy and Religious Studies Department felt more like joining a family. Not only did this family welcome me in and was supportive, but challenged me to be better- a better learner, a better critical thinker, and a better individual who can think clearly, logically, and differently.
-2018 Alumni Wesley Sweet, Major – Philosophy with Religious Studies

For advising questions contact:
Associate Professor Luke Whitmore
Philosophy and Religious Studies
luke.whitmore@uwsp.edu