Religion

The Bachelor of Arts in Religion at Concordia University offers students a comprehensive exploration of religious beliefs, practices, and communities across the globe. This interdisciplinary program combines historical, philosophical, and cultural approaches to understanding religion's role in shaping societies and individual identities. Students will engage with primary texts, analyze contemporary religious phenomena, and critically examine the influence of religion on politics, ethics, and social justice initiatives. The curriculum includes courses on major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and indigenous spiritual traditions, providing a broad and inclusive perspective. Designed to foster critical thinking, cultural literacy, and ethical awareness, the program prepares graduates for diverse careers in education, community work, public policy, religious organizations, and more. Emphasis is placed on developing research skills, theological literacy, and an appreciation for the diversity of religious expressions. Students also have opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and participation in interfaith dialogues, enhancing their practical understanding of religious communities and issues. The program promotes an understanding of religion's historical development and its contemporary relevance, encouraging students to reflect on the moral and spiritual dimensions of human life. Graduates will be equipped to analyze religious influences in a variety of contexts and to contribute thoughtfully to discussions on religion’s role in society. With dedicated faculty members who are experts in theology, religious studies, and related fields, students receive personalized mentorship and guidance. The Bachelor of Arts in Religion at Concordia University is ideal for those interested in exploring deep questions about existence, morality, and human purpose through an academic lens, fostering a lifelong commitment to understanding and engaging with the world's diverse spiritual traditions.

The Religion program at Concordia University offers students a comprehensive exploration of religious beliefs, practices, texts, and traditions from around the world. Designed to foster critical thinking and intercultural understanding, the program provides an in-depth study of various religious phenomena, including historical developments, philosophical foundations, and contemporary issues faced by religious communities. Students will engage with a diverse range of disciplines such as theology, anthropology, history, and literature, enabling a well-rounded perspective on the role of religion in shaping societies and individual identities. The curriculum includes courses on major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Indigenous spiritualities, as well as courses addressing topics like ethics, religious symbolism, and ritual practices. Emphasis is placed on analytical skills, encouraging students to interpret sacred texts and analyze religious arguments critically. The program also examines the intersection of religion with politics, gender, race, and globalization, preparing students for careers in education, community work, public policy, or further academic research. Through lectures, seminars, and practical fieldwork, students will have opportunities to deepen their understanding of religious diversity and develop respectful dialogue skills. The faculty comprises experts in their fields dedicated to fostering an inclusive and thought-provoking learning environment. Graduates of the Religion program at Concordia are equipped with a nuanced understanding of religious phenomena, critical thinking abilities, and cross-cultural communication skills, positioning them well for careers in social work, counseling, education, or international relations. The program's flexible structure allows students to tailor their coursework according to their interests, with options for internships and research projects to gain real-world experience. Ultimately, the Religion program aims to cultivate informed and empathetic individuals ready to engage thoughtfully with the complex religious landscape of the contemporary world.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in Religion at Concordia University include the successful completion of 120 credit hours, comprising both core courses and electives. Students must complete foundational courses such as Introduction to Religious Studies, which provides an overview of the major world religions, and Introduction to Theology, exploring various theological perspectives. A series of disciplinary courses in Biblical Studies, Religious Ethics, and History of Religions are also mandatory to foster a comprehensive understanding of religious phenomena.

Students are expected to enroll in specific courses like Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Eastern Religions, and Indigenous Religions to gain diverse perspectives. Advanced courses may include Topics in Religious Thought, Comparative Religion, and Religion and Society, allowing students to specialize according to their interests. Critical thinking and research skills are emphasized through required writing-intensive courses and a capstone project, in which students undertake independent research under faculty supervision.

In addition to coursework, students must participate in seminars and discussions that encourage analytical dialogue about contemporary issues related to religion, such as ethics, secularism, and interfaith relations. Language requirements may include proficiency in at least one classical or modern language relevant to religious texts, such as Latin, Greek, Hebrew, or Arabic, depending on specialization.

Students are also encouraged to complete a practicum or internship to gain practical experience in religious communities or related organizations. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum GPA, fulfill all coursework with passing grades, and submit a comprehensive thesis or research paper demonstrating their mastery of religious studies principles. Additionally, students are advised to attend lectures, religious services, and interfaith events to enrich their learning experience and develop a well-rounded understanding of religious diversity and its societal impacts.

Financing for the Religion program at Concordia University is primarily available through a variety of sources designed to support enrolled students in pursuing their academic goals. The university offers several scholarships and bursaries tailored to students studying in the humanities, including those focusing on Religious Studies. These financial aid opportunities are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria established by the university’s scholarship committee. Additionally, students may be eligible for entrance scholarships upon admission, which do not require a separate application process if all admission requirements are met.

While specific scholarships directly associated with the Religion program are limited, students are encouraged to explore general scholarships available to all undergraduate or graduate students at Concordia University. These include the Concordia General Bursary, which supports students demonstrating financial need, and faculty-specific awards that may occasionally be available to students in Religious Studies or related departments. Graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in religion may also be eligible for research assistantships or teaching assistantships, which provide a stipend in exchange for research or teaching duties.

Funding can also be sought through external sources, such as government student aid programs like Canada Student Grants and Loans, which offer financial assistance based on demonstrated need and other eligibility criteria. International students are advised to explore visa-specific financial aid options, scholarships, and external funding sources available in their home countries or through international organizations.

Students should actively consult the Concordia University Financial Aid Office and the Department of Religion for detailed information about current funding opportunities, application procedures, and deadlines. It is recommended to apply early and prepare the necessary documentation to maximize chances of securing financial support. Moreover, some students opt for part-time work opportunities on campus, which may include positions such as library assistants, peer tutors, or administrative support within the department, providing additional financial resources. Overall, the university’s comprehensive approach to student financing aims to make religious studies accessible to a diverse student population, promoting academic excellence and reducing financial barriers.

The Religion program at Concordia University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of religious beliefs, practices, and histories from a variety of cultural and global perspectives. Designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and intercultural understanding, the program examines religious texts, doctrines, rituals, and social influences that shape religious communities worldwide. Students have the opportunity to study major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Judaism, alongside indigenous belief systems and new religious movements. The curriculum encourages an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from history, philosophy, sociology, anthropology, and theology to facilitate a well-rounded understanding of religion’s role in society.

Throughout the program, students engage with primary texts and participate in discussions around contemporary issues such as religious tolerance, secularism, interfaith dialogue, and the impact of religion on politics and ethics. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in education, community service, religious organizations, public policy, or further academic research. Faculty members are experienced scholars and practitioners, providing mentorship and fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and respect for diverse perspectives. The program also promotes experiential learning through community engagement, internships, and participation in religious events and conferences.

Concordia University’s location in Montreal, a city known for its multicultural and multi-faith community, offers students unique opportunities for fieldwork and cultural immersion. The program supports student mobility and exchange programs with partner institutions around the world, enriching students’ understanding of global religious landscapes. Graduates of the Religion program are equipped to analyze complex religious issues, communicate effectively across cultural boundaries, and contribute positively to an increasingly interconnected world. With its emphasis on scholarly rigor and social relevance, the program prepares students for meaningful careers and active participation in society’s ongoing dialogue about faith, ethics, and community values.