Religious Studies (3 years)

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Winnipeg offers students an in-depth exploration of the diverse beliefs, practices, and traditions that have shaped human cultures and societies throughout history. This comprehensive undergraduate program is designed for students interested in understanding the complex roles of religion in contemporary and historical contexts, fostering critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and analytical skills. Throughout the three-year curriculum, students engage with a wide range of religious traditions including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Indigenous spiritualities, and other world faiths, as well as examining secular and philosophical perspectives on religion.

The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating history, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, and literary studies to provide a well-rounded understanding of religious phenomena. Students are encouraged to critically assess the role of religion in issues such as ethics, identity, social justice, and global conflicts. The curriculum includes core courses in religious thought, sacred texts, rituals, and religious communities, complemented by specialized electives that allow students to focus on particular regions, periods, or themes. Additionally, there are opportunities for experiential learning through community engagement, internships, and study abroad programs, enriching students’ academic experience and preparing them for diverse careers.

Graduates of the Religious Studies program develop strong research, writing, and communication skills, which are highly valued in fields such as education, social services, government, non-profit organizations, and cultural institutions. The program aims to cultivate informed, open-minded individuals who can critically analyze religious issues and contribute thoughtfully to interfaith dialogue and cross-cultural understanding. Whether your interest lies in academic research, faith communities, or careers that require cultural competency, the Religious Studies program at the University of Winnipeg provides a robust foundation for personal and professional growth in a increasingly interconnected world.

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Winnipeg offers students an in-depth exploration of the diverse religious traditions, beliefs, practices, and texts that have shaped human history and continue to influence contemporary societies. This program provides a comprehensive overview of major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others, encouraging students to develop a nuanced understanding of religious phenomena across different cultural and historical contexts. Through a combination of critical analysis, textual study, and cultural examination, students will examine the ways religions influence and intersect with issues of ethics, politics, identity, and society. The curriculum emphasizes comparative religion, allowing students to identify common themes and unique features among diverse faiths, while also exploring the role of religion in art, philosophy, and social movements. Students will engage with a variety of methodologies, including historical, sociological, and anthropological approaches, to enrich their understanding of religious beliefs and practices. The program also encourages students to develop their analytical and research skills through writing assignments, presentations, and independent projects. Opportunities for experiential learning include community engagement, internships, and collaboration with religious communities, enabling students to connect academic studies with real-world experiences. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped for careers in education, community service, international relations, journalism, and other fields where intercultural understanding and knowledge of religion are essential. The program emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and ethical awareness, preparing students to participate thoughtfully in a diverse and interconnected world.

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at The University of Winnipeg requires students to complete a total of 90 credit hours over the course of three years. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of various religious traditions, texts, and practices, as well as their historical and cultural contexts. Students must complete a set of core courses in introductory religious studies, which typically include courses on world religions, religious theories and methods, and ethics. In addition, students are encouraged to take a range of electives in areas such as Aboriginal spirituality, gender and religion, religious philosophy, and contemporary religious issues.

The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and intercultural awareness, preparing students for diverse careers or further academic study. Majors are often required to complete a capstone project or a comprehensive exam in their final year, allowing them to synthesize their learning and demonstrate their understanding of key concepts and debates in the field.

Students must also fulfill general education requirements, including courses in humanities, social sciences, and writing. The program promotes active engagement through seminars, discussions, and research projects, fostering a deep appreciation of religious diversity and the role of religion in society. Some courses may include field trips, guest lectures, or community engagement activities to enrich the learning experience.

Many students choose to participate in study abroad programs or internships related to religious organizations, enhancing their practical knowledge and intercultural competency. As part of their degree, students may have the opportunity to pursue minors or interdisciplinary minors such as Indigenous Studies, Philosophy, or Canadian Studies, which complement their understanding of religion in various contexts.

Overall, the program aims to develop students' analytical abilities, ethical reasoning, and cultural literacy, equipping graduates with skills valuable in education, social services, public policy, intercultural relations, and faith-based organizations. The graduation requirements include maintaining a minimum GPA as specified by the faculty, completing all core and elective courses with satisfactory performance, and fulfilling any additional university-wide academic standards.

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

The University of Winnipeg offers a range of financial support options for students enrolled in the Religious Studies (3 years) program. Prospective and current students are encouraged to explore various funding sources to help offset the costs of their education. These include government loans and grants, scholarships, bursaries, and work-study opportunities. Government financial aid programs such as Canada Student Loans and Manitoba Student Aid provide essential funding for eligible students based on financial need and academic performance. In addition to government assistance, the university administers a variety of merit-based scholarships and awards that recognize academic achievement, community involvement, and leadership qualities. For example, students can apply for specific scholarships dedicated to students pursuing arts and humanities disciplines, including Religious Studies. Bursaries are also available to students demonstrating financial need; these do not require repayment and are awarded based on specific criteria set by donors and the university. Students are advised to complete the online scholarship application form through the university’s Student Services portal and to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements. The university also provides resources and financial counseling services to assist students in planning their finances, understanding their options, and applying for financial aid effectively. Additionally, some students may find part-time employment opportunities on campus through the university’s work-study program, which allows students to earn money while gaining work experience relevant to their field of study. External organizations and community foundations sometimes offer scholarships or bursaries for students pursuing religious or humanities studies, so students are encouraged to seek out additional funding sources through local community groups or religious organizations associated with their interests. The university’s Financial Aid Office can provide guidance and personalized assistance to help students identify suitable funding options. Overall, the combination of federal and provincial financial aid, university-specific awards, external scholarships, and employment opportunities form a comprehensive funding framework for students in the Religious Studies program at the University of Winnipeg.

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Winnipeg offers students a comprehensive exploration of the diverse religious traditions, beliefs, practices, and historical developments that have shaped human societies around the world. This three-year undergraduate program is designed to develop a deep understanding of the ways in which religion influences culture, politics, ethics, and personal identity. Through interdisciplinary coursework, students examine major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and indigenous spiritual traditions, alongside analyses of religious philosophies, texts, and rituals.

The program encourages critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling students to interpret religious phenomena within broader social, cultural, and historical contexts. Courses often address contemporary issues related to religion, including secularization, religious pluralism, ethics, and the role of religion in social justice and conflict resolution. Students can tailor their education through a variety of electives, which may include topics like religious art, literature, philosophy, and the study of specific religious communities.

The program emphasizes experiential learning and may include opportunities for internships, community engagement, or study abroad experiences to enhance understanding of religious practices in diverse settings. Faculty members are actively involved in research, bringing current scholarship into the classroom and fostering an environment of inquiry and debate. Graduates of the Religious Studies program are well-prepared for careers in education, social work, community organizing, media, government, and non-profit organizations, where understanding of religious diversity and intercultural competence is valuable.

Moreover, the curriculum aims to cultivate respect and sensitivity towards different faith traditions and belief systems, promoting intercultural dialogue and social harmony. The program may also serve as a solid foundation for students interested in pursuing graduate studies in theology, religious studies, or related fields. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Winnipeg provides a rigorous, engaging educational experience that prepares students to navigate and contribute thoughtfully to a pluralistic world.