Religion

Experience the rich and diverse field of Religious Studies at Hampshire College, where students explore the multifaceted dimensions of religion across cultures, histories, and societies. Our program offers a holistic approach to understanding the ways in which religion shapes human experience, influences social structures, and informs artistic and philosophical traditions. Through interdisciplinary coursework, students examine major religious traditions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous spiritual practices, while also engaging with contemporary issues like secularism, religious conflict, and interfaith dialogue. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical reflection, preparing students to navigate and contribute thoughtfully to a world where religion continues to play a vital role.

At Hampshire College, we believe in experiential learning, encouraging students to participate in community-based projects, field studies, and internships that deepen their understanding of religious practices and communities. Our faculty, distinguished scholars and practitioners, guide students through rigorous inquiry into sacred texts, rituals, beliefs, and philosophies, fostering a nuanced appreciation of religious diversity and commonality. The program also emphasizes the importance of studying religion within its social, political, and cultural contexts, enabling students to analyze contemporary issues such as religious pluralism, human rights, and global conflicts.

Graduates of our Religious Studies program are well-equipped for careers in education, social services, public policy, non-profit work, journalism, and further academic research. They emerge with a sophisticated understanding of the role of religion in shaping personal identities and societal structures. Hampshire College's unique interdisciplinary approach ensures that students not only acquire knowledge about religious traditions but also develop skills in critical analysis, cross-cultural communication, and ethical reasoning, making them thoughtful and engaged global citizens. Join us to explore the profound and pervasive influence of religion in human history and contemporary life.

• Exploring the Divine Feminine
• American Religious Experience: Literary and Historical Perspectives
• The American Transcendentalists
• Asian Religious Texts and Traditions
• Augustine
• Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity in the U.S.
• Buddhist Traditions
• Culture, Religion, and Environmentalism
• Daoism, Shamanism, and Shinto: Indigenous Religions of East Asia.
• Decoding Zen Buddhism
• The English Bible
• Exploring the Divine Feminine
• High Spirits: Reading and Writing about Spiritual Experience
• Intro to the Buddhist Meditation Tradition
• Intro to Tibetan Religion: The Four Schools of Tibetan Buddhism
• Mystics and Texts
• Myth and Myth Theory
• Myth, Belief, and Reality in World Literature
• Nuns, Saints, and Mystics in Medieval and Early Modern Europe
• Religion in Modern India
• Religious Experience and Literary Form
• The Rise of Secular Jewish Culture
• Topics in Comparative Religion
• Sacred to the Secular: The Performing Arts of Asia
• Science in the Islamic World
• Text, Canon, Tradition: Scriptures and Their Emergence in World Religions
• Theories of Religion
• Yoga Traditions: Philosophy, Practice and Narrative
• Ancient Israel (AC)
• Buddhist Philosophy (SC)
• Intro to the Qu'ran (MHC)
• Intro to Philosophy of Religion (MHC)
• Mary Images and Cults (SC)
• The Meaning of Life (SC)
• Religious Movements in America (MHC)
• Sacred Sound (AC)

Requirements

• Common Application
• An academic paper in English
• Supplemental essay responses
• Current transcripts
• School report, including guidance counselor recommendation
• At least one letter of recommendation from a teacher
• Certification of Finances form
• TOEFL or IELTS score (Minimum TOEFL score of 91 or a minimum IELTS score of 6.5. Predicted grades for IB English A1 or A2, or for A-level English, will also be considered.
• Additional letters of recommendation, up to three

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• MacArthur Foundation Grant Making Programs
• American Association of University Women
• Fulbright International Scholarship Program for non-US students

Religion at Hampshire College offers a distinctive interdisciplinary approach to the study of religious beliefs, practices, and communities around the world. The program examines how religion influences cultures, societies, and individual identities, fostering critical thinking and comparative analysis. Students explore a wide range of religious traditions, including Eastern, Western, indigenous, and modern spiritual movements, gaining insights into their historical development, textual foundations, rituals, ethical systems, and social roles. The curriculum emphasizes active engagement through critical reading, writing, and discussion, encouraging students to understand religion within its cultural and ecological contexts. Hampshire's distinctive nature-based campus environment supports experiential learning, allowing students to participate in community-based projects, religious observances, and interfaith dialogues. The program also promotes inclusive dialogue, emphasizing understanding of religious diversity and promoting social justice and ethical responsibility. Faculty members bring expertise from various disciplines such as anthropology, history, philosophy, literature, and theology, providing students with a comprehensive perspective. Graduates are prepared for careers in education, community service, advocacy, cultural exchange, or further study in religious studies, theology, anthropology, or related fields. The degree combines rigorous academic inquiry with personal reflection, encouraging students to consider their own beliefs, cultural influences, and the role of religion in contemporary global issues. As part of Hampshire’s commitment to a progressive, student-centered education, the program supports collaborative projects, independent research, and innovative approaches to understanding religion’s role in shaping human experience.