School of Humanities and Global Studies
Philosophy: Religious Studies Degree
Major
COMMUNICATE ACROSS BOUNDARIES AND LEAD WITH A DEGREE IN PHILOSOPHY WITH AN EMPHASIS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Religion has been and continues to be one of the most powerful forces shaping our world. Grappling with the question of how and why religions are so powerful leads us to deeper understanding of global cultures, the diversity of worldviews, and the mystery of what it means to be human.
Study in this discipline focuses on empathetic understanding of human diversity and trains students in the skill of effective communication across cultural divides. Further, because the study of religion draws on so many other disciplines (history, psychology, sociology, political science, etc.), students learn to analyze and solve problems in ways that are interdisciplinary, creative and holistic.
You will learn:
- How to think logically, read critically, and write clearly
- How to research in the digital age and assess information sources
- How to communicate across the boundaries of cultural and religious differences
Why Pursue Religious Studies at UW-Stevens Point?
Graduates in philosophy with an emphasis in religious studies possess key skills employers seek, including critical thinking, written and oral communication, information literacy, the ability to rapidly master new skills, and most importantly, empathetic understanding of human diversity and the ability to communicate effectively across cultural divides. While some graduates pursue careers in ministry, others go on to careers in counseling, higher education leadership, management, teaching, social services, and much more.
Scholarships in Philosophy
The Philosophy Department has scholarships to currently enrolled students. Students are notified of available scholarships in class and via email at the beginning of the spring semester.
Alumni Voices
Philosophy helped them carve a path to fulfilling careers. UWSP Department of Philosophy alum from 2003- 2019 share their graduate stories!
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Our program consists of 39 credits; at least 12 credits must be in Philosophy, including one course in Critical Thinking and one course in Ethics, and the remaining credits must be in Religious Studies or relevant interdisciplinary courses. Our classes are small and emphasize discussion, active learning, critical thinking and research skills.
Religious studies majors are able to effectively communicate across cultural divides, they excel in understanding human diversity and they possess strong written and oral communication skills, desired by employers.
Internships and creative experiential learning opportunities give majors hands on experience in professional settings.
GET INVOLVED ON CAMPUS
The Philosophy Club of UWSP is a student organization dedicated to promoting and maintaining a mature and professional environment for students interested in the field of philosophy and philosophical discussion. Regular activities include student facilitated conversations about controversial and topical issues. Faculty also attend some meetings to share some of their own work with students. The club welcomes all students. For further information, please contact the faculty advisor to the Philosophy Club, Jason Zinser.
Phi Sigma Tau is the international honor society for the study of philosophy. The purpose of Phi Sigma Tau is to cultivate interest in philosophy among students and to celebrate high achievement in the study of philosophy. Phi Sigma Tau publishes a journal, Dialogue, for student contributions in all areas of contemporary philosophical research. For further information, please contact the faculty advisor to Phi Sigma Tau, Jason Zinser.
More student group opportunities can be found on the Stevens Point Involvement Network (SPIN).
Philosophy students are active in many student organizations, including the Student Government Association, and are frequently included in the ranks of the Chancellor’s Albertson Student Leadership Award winners.
Students with outstanding original work have the opportunity to present their research at the College of Letters and Science Undergraduate Research Symposium, held each spring.
Philosophy: Religious Studies
Navigate Your Major
Major Maps help students map their first day to the first job in their chosen field. While a four-year plan outlines classes to get a degree, Major Maps help students learn how to build career-ready skills and experiences outside the classroom. Each Major Map shows how students can get the most of their UW-Stevens Point journey from enrollment to graduation and beyond. It’s a roadmap to discovering your purpose!
“Often times in the real world we are asked to think outside of the box and to set a new standard. These disciplines will give you the tools to think in new ways and provide concepts that are interdisciplinary. There isn’t much room for rote memorization in these disciplines, you will be presented with new ideas and then given the space to explore them on your own with the guidance of some of the best teachers UWSP has to offer. The skills obtained from these disciplines will impact more than just your academics, they will positively impact your life, work, and relationship to the world.”
Ryan Schwobe
— 2015 Major, Philosophy with Religious Studies emphasis
MEET YOUR FACULTY
UW-Stevens Point philosophy faculty ensure students read carefully, think critically, communicate effectively and participate meaningfully in environments characterized by cultural, religious and philosophical diversity
Alice Keefe
- Professor of Religious Studies
715-346-3205
Ryan O’Leary
- Lecturer in Religious Studies
- Academic Success Associate
715-389-6533
Shanny Luft
- Associate Professor of Religious Studies
- Director of General Education
715-346-4023
School of Humanities and Global Studies