Religious Studies (4 years)

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at The University of Winnipeg offers students a comprehensive exploration of the diverse religious traditions, practices, and beliefs that have shaped human history and continue to influence societies around the world today. This four-year undergraduate program is designed to provide students with a broad intercultural and interdisciplinary understanding of religion’s role in social, political, and cultural contexts. Through engaging coursework, students examine major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and Indigenous spiritual practices, as well as lesser-known and emerging faiths. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to interpret religious texts, rituals, and symbols. Students are encouraged to consider contemporary issues such as secularism, religious pluralism, human rights, and ethics, fostering a nuanced appreciation of religion’s ongoing relevance. The curriculum combines theoretical approaches from history, anthropology, philosophy, and sociology, enabling students to analyze religious phenomena from multiple perspectives.

In addition to coursework, students have opportunities for practical engagement through community projects, internships, and research initiatives. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in education, social services, counseling, journalism, non-profit organizations, governmental agencies, and further graduate studies in religious studies, theology, or related fields. The university’s faculty members are experts in various religious traditions and methodologies, providing mentorship and guidance tailored to students’ interests. The program’s design also promotes global awareness and cultural sensitivity, encouraging students to appreciate the diversity of religious expressions worldwide. Graduates of this program will leave with a solid foundation in religious literacy, critical inquiry, and intercultural competence, equipping them for active participation in a pluralistic world.

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Winnipeg offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of religious traditions, beliefs, practices, and the roles religion plays in societies around the world. This four-year undergraduate program is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of major world religions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and indigenous spiritual traditions, as well as lesser-known faiths and new religious movements. Through a combination of historical, cultural, philosophical, and textual approaches, students will develop critical thinking skills and a nuanced perspective on religious phenomena.

The curriculum includes core courses that introduce foundational concepts in religious studies, such as the history of religions, religious texts and scriptures, and the sociological and psychological aspects of faith. Students will also have the opportunity to specialize in particular religious traditions or thematic areas, such as ethics, gender and sexuality in religion, religious art and iconography, and contemporary issues in religion and secularism. Interdisciplinary modules allow students to connect religious studies with areas like anthropology, history, philosophy, and political science, fostering an integrated understanding of how religion influences and is influenced by broader societal factors.

Practical components such as internships, community engagement projects, and participation in cultural events enable students to gain hands-on experience and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. The program emphasizes developing skills in critical analysis, research, interpretation, and effective communication, preparing graduates for diverse career paths including education, community services, policy-making, religious leadership, journalism, and further academic study.

Faculty members are experts in their fields, many of whom are engaged in ongoing research and fieldwork, enriching classroom discussions with contemporary insights and perspectives. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, conferences, and study abroad opportunities to broaden their understanding of global religious landscapes.

The University of Winnipeg’s Religious Studies program is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful learning environment that values diverse perspectives and promotes intercultural dialogue. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to engage thoughtfully with the complex religious dimensions of contemporary global issues, contributing to a more understanding and harmonious society.

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at The University of Winnipeg is a comprehensive four-year undergraduate program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of various religious traditions, beliefs, practices, and their historical and cultural contexts. The program emphasizes critical analysis, theological exploration, and interdisciplinary approaches to studying religion, preparing students for careers in education, community work, missionary activities, or further academic pursuits. Students are required to complete a total of approximately 120 credit hours over the course of the four years, including core courses, electives, and a capstone project. The curriculum typically begins with foundational courses such as Introduction to Religious Studies, which offers an overview of religious phenomena worldwide, and Methods and Approaches in Religious Studies, which introduces research techniques and theoretical frameworks.

Throughout the program, students take part in a diverse array of courses covering major religious traditions including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous spiritualities. They also explore thematic topics such as ethics, religious philosophy, gender and sexuality in religion, and religion and politics. The program encourages experiential learning through participation in service projects, internships, or study abroad opportunities to foster practical understanding. Students are expected to complete a number of upper-level courses that delve deeper into specific traditions and issues, promoting specialization in areas of interest.

A significant component of the programme involves a capstone project or thesis, where students conduct independent research under faculty supervision, integrating theoretical knowledge and practical analysis. The program promotes development of critical thinking, effective communication, and cultural sensitivity. To graduate, students must maintain satisfactory academic standing, complete all required coursework, and fulfill any additional university-wide requirements such as general education and language proficiency. The program aims to produce graduates who are well-equipped with knowledge, analytical skills, and ethical understanding relevant to religious studies, capable of contributing thoughtfully to diverse communities and professional environments.

The University of Winnipeg offers a variety of financial aid options for students enrolled in the Religious Studies (4 years) program. prospective students are encouraged to explore multiple sources of funding to support their academic pursuits. The university provides entrance scholarships based on academic achievement, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of the program. Additionally, there are awards and bursaries specifically designated for students studying humanities and social sciences, including Religious Studies. Students are advised to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the university’s own financial aid application forms to be considered for government and private funding opportunities. The University of Winnipeg also offers Work-Study programs that allow students to work part-time on campus, gaining valuable experience while earning money to offset educational expenses. Furthermore, many students seek external scholarships provided by religious organizations, community groups, and national scholarship programs that support students pursuing religious or philosophical studies. International students, in particular, may qualify for specific scholarships designed to promote diversity and international education. The university’s Financial Aid and Awards Office provides guidance on available funding sources, application procedures, and deadlines. Besides scholarships and bursaries, students can consider student loans, which are available through government programs with favorable interest rates and repayment terms. It is also possible to explore sponsorship opportunities from religious institutions or foundations aligned with students’ interests. To maximize financial support, students should plan early and consult academic advisors and the financial aid office regularly. In summary, funding for the Religious Studies (4 years) program is accessible through a combination of scholarships, bursaries, work opportunities, government aid, external awards, and loans, enabling students to pursue their degrees with manageable financial planning.

The Religious Studies program at The University of Winnipeg is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of various religious traditions, beliefs, practices, and their roles in society. Spanning four years, the program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines historical, cultural, philosophical, and textual analyses of world religions. Students are encouraged to explore diverse religious phenomena, engage critically with religious texts, and examine contemporary issues through the lens of religious thought and practice. The program curriculum typically includes core courses such as Introduction to Religious Studies, World Religions, Religion and Society, and specialized courses in areas like Indigenous spirituality, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and other religious traditions. In addition, students may have opportunities for interdisciplinary research, fieldwork, and internships related to religious communities or cultural heritage sites, fostering practical understanding alongside theoretical knowledge. The program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural literacy, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, community work, journalism, or further academic study. The faculty members involved in the Religious Studies program are experts in their fields, offering mentorship and engaging students in active learning environments. The university emphasizes a supportive academic atmosphere that encourages dialogue on religious diversity and promotes awareness of the ethical and societal dimensions of religion. Overall, the Religious Studies degree from The University of Winnipeg combines a broad liberal arts education with specialized knowledge, empowering students to understand complex religious issues and contribute thoughtfully to increasingly diverse societies.