Religion

The programs offered by the Department of Religion cover the academic study of various faiths and of social and cultural phenomena affected by religions. Students are encouraged to develop an understanding of at least two religious traditions. Whatever the student's special focus, the informed appreciation of the beliefs and values of other cultures is considered an essential dimension of education for today's world.

Honours in Religion — 60 credits

Allows students to explore their own interests independently. Courses are devoted to the study of a relevant language (i.e. Sanskrit, Arabic) or associated field of study (for example: anthropology, art, history, psychology). Honours students also write an advanced research paper under the guidance of an expert in their chosen field.

Major in Religion — 42 credits

The Major in Religion provides training in two fields, chosen from Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Asian Religions, and Women and Religion. Students who choose Asian religions as a concentration may select any combination of courses in Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and religions of China and Japan.

Minor in Religion — 24 credits

Students have the opportunity to explore the field through a program tailored to their interests, designed in collaboration with the department advisors. A Minor in Religion provides an ideal complement to many subjects.

See the BA degree description for information on the core and elective requirements. For a complete list of courses: Undergraduate Calendar

Sample courses include:

The Religious Imagination, Religion in Practice, Sephardic Judaism, On the Margins of Christianity: Heresy, Dissidence and the End of the World, Modern Islam, Mahayana Buddhism, Women and Religion: Hinduism, Religion and Film, Justice and Social Conflict in a Globalized World, Death and Dying

Department of Religion

The Department of Religion is dedicated to the academic study of the world’s religious traditions and of social and cultural phenomena affected by religions. Whatever the focus–ancient or contemporary, East or West, mysticism or ethics, ritual or philosophy-informed appreciation of the beliefs and values of other cultures is an essential dimension of education for today’s world. Religion offers students an opportunity to explore the contemporary religious scene and critically examine the cultural, social, and political aspects of each religion.

Admission Requirements

Religion (BA - Honours/Major/Minor) requirements: Minimum cut-off averages, admission statistics and program requirements.

Undergraduate admissions guidelines: For information on international admission, required documents, proof of language proficiency, the university admissions timetable, selection and notification process.