Religious Studies - Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Program Overview

The Religious Studies program at The University of Toledo explores the profound questions of life's meaning and ethical conduct through the lens of global religions. It cultivates a comprehensive understanding of religious diversity, critical thinking skills, empathy, and interfaith dialogue. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in social work, non-profit organizations, teaching, religious ministries, and other fields that value knowledge of diverse religious traditions and a commitment to interfaith understanding.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Religious Studies program at The University of Toledo delves into the profound questions of life's meaning and ethical conduct. It explores how global religions address these inquiries and influence the political and cultural landscapes worldwide.

Objectives:

• Cultivate a comprehensive understanding of diverse religious and cultural traditions.
• Develop critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for interpreting religious texts and practices.
• Nurture empathy and respect for individuals from all backgrounds.
• Foster an ability to engage in interfaith dialogue and promote religious understanding.

Program Description:

The Religious Studies program offers a well-rounded curriculum that combines theoretical and practical components. Students study the history, beliefs, and practices of major world religions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. They also examine the role of religion in society, ethics, and intercultural relations. Through coursework, research, and experiential learning opportunities, students develop a nuanced understanding of religious diversity and its impact on the human experience.

Outline:

Content and Structure:

The Religious Studies program consists of 39 credit hours, including foundational courses in:

• Introduction to Religious Studies
• World Religions
• Religion and Society
• Philosophy of Religion
Students also select from a variety of elective courses, allowing them to specialize in areas such as:
• Catholic Studies
• Islamic Studies
• Philosophy of Religion
• Religious Diversity

Course Schedule:

The program typically follows a four-year schedule, with students completing 120 credit hours to earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. The specific course sequence may vary depending on the student's area of concentration.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

Student progress is assessed through a combination of methods, including:

• Exams (essays, objective questions)
• Research papers
• Class participation
• Presentations
• Projects

Criteria:

Assessments evaluate students' knowledge of religious traditions, critical thinking abilities, written and oral communication skills, and engagement with the course material.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The Religious Studies program employs a variety of teaching methods to engage students and foster critical thinking. These methods include:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Group projects
• Guest speakers
• Service learning

Faculty:

The program's faculty consists of renowned scholars in the fields of religious studies, philosophy, and theology. They bring a wealth of expertise and research experience to the classroom, ensuring that students receive a cutting-edge education.

Unique Approaches:

• One-of-a-kind Community Partnership: The program benefits from a unique partnership with the local community, which funds endowed chairs in Catholic, Islamic, and Jewish studies.
This provides students with access to esteemed faculty and resources.
• Service Learning: Service learning is a central component of the program, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
They may volunteer at local religious organizations, engage in interfaith dialogue, or lead youth groups.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the Religious Studies program are well-prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Social work
• Non-profit organizations
• Teaching (high school, college, university)
• Religious ministries (clergy, youth leaders, clergy associates)
• Journalism
• Business
• Law
• Health care
• Public and political service

Career Outcomes:

The program equips students with a diverse skill set that is highly valued by employers. Graduates possess knowledge of diverse religious traditions, strong communication and analytical skills, and a commitment to interfaith understanding. They are well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to society in both professional and personal contexts.