The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at Saint Mary’s University offers students an in-depth exploration of the diverse beliefs, practices, and historical developments of religions around the world. This interdisciplinary program is designed to foster critical thinking, cultural awareness, and a nuanced understanding of the role that religion plays in shaping societies, politics, art, and human experiences. Students will engage with a broad spectrum of religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous spiritual practices, along with contemporary issues related to secularism, ethics, and religious identity. The curriculum combines coursework in theology, history, philosophy, and anthropology, providing a comprehensive perspective on religious phenomena. Through a mixture of lectures, discussions, research projects, and fieldwork, students will develop analytical skills, ethical reasoning, and effective communication. The program also encourages engagement with contemporary debates on religious tolerance, interfaith dialogue, and the impact of religion in global and local contexts. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in education, community service, public policy, journalism, religious organizations, or further academic pursuits. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies to their interests, with opportunities for internships, study abroad, and research specialization. Dedicated faculty members with expertise in various religious traditions and academic disciplines mentor students throughout their educational journey. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application, the Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at Saint Mary’s University equips students with the critical insights and cultural competency necessary to navigate and contribute meaningfully to our increasingly interconnected world.
The Religious Studies program at Saint Mary's University is designed to explore the diverse beliefs, practices, and historical developments of religions around the world. This interdisciplinary program offers students the opportunity to engage critically and thoughtfully with various religious traditions, examining their impact on societies, cultures, and individuals throughout history and in contemporary contexts. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including the origins and development of major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism. Students will also analyze lesser-known spiritual traditions, indigenous beliefs, and modern secular philosophies, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the human quest for meaning and transcendence.
Throughout the program, students are encouraged to consider questions related to faith, ethics, ritual, and community, as well as issues of social justice, interfaith dialogue, and religious coexistence. The coursework emphasizes critical thinking, textual analysis, and scholarly research, preparing students for a variety of careers in education, community work, religious institutions, and public service. In addition to theoretical learning, students have opportunities for experiential learning through field trips, guest lectures, internships, and participation in interfaith initiatives.
The program also includes courses on religious texts, philosophy of religion, and contemporary issues in religious studies, ensuring that graduates gain a well-rounded and nuanced perspective on religion's role in shaping human history and culture. Students are encouraged to develop their own ethical frameworks and to understand the pluralistic nature of modern society. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty members who are experts in their fields, the Religious Studies program at Saint Mary's University provides an engaging and supportive environment for intellectual growth and personal development. Whether pursuing careers in academia, counseling, non-profit work, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the world’s spiritual landscape, students will find this program to be a valuable foundation for their future endeavors.
Program Requirements:
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at Saint Mary’s University requires students to complete a total of 120 credit hours to graduate. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of various world religions, theological perspectives, and the role of religion in historical and contemporary contexts. Students must fulfill core curriculum requirements, including foundational courses in humanities and social sciences, alongside specialized religious studies classes. The curriculum typically includes introductory courses such as "Introduction to Religious Studies," "World Religions," and "Religious Ethics," which lay the groundwork for more advanced topics.
In addition to these, students are encouraged to take courses in biblical studies, comparative religion, theology, and philosophy of religion to deepen their analytical and critical thinking skills. The program often requires students to engage in a certain number of electives in related disciplines, which may include anthropology, history, and cultural studies, to foster interdisciplinary understanding.
There is usually a capstone project or comprehensive exam requirement at the end of the program, allowing students to synthesize their learning through research papers or presentations on specific religious topics or traditions. Fieldwork, internships, or service-learning components may also be integrated into the curriculum to provide practical experience and community engagement.
Students are expected to maintain a minimum GPA over their course of study, and some courses may have prerequisites or require departmental approval. Language proficiency in relevant classical or modern languages such as Latin, Greek, Hebrew, or Arabic may be recommended or required for certain advanced courses. Overall, the program aims to equip graduates with academic knowledge, cultural literacy, and critical insights necessary for careers in education, ministry, counseling, or further graduate studies in theology and religious studies.
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- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.
The Religious Studies program at Saint Mary's University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Students enrolled in the program can take advantage of numerous financial aid opportunities, including government scholarships, bursaries, and external funding sources. Saint Mary's University provides merit-based scholarships for outstanding academic performance, which are available to incoming and current students in the Religious Studies program. Additionally, need-based bursaries are offered to assist students facing financial challenges, ensuring that no qualified student is prevented from pursuing their studies due to economic constraints. The university also participates in student loan programs, which can provide substantial financial support, often with favorable repayment terms designed to minimize burden after graduation.
Furthermore, Saint Mary’s University encourages students to seek external funding, such as provincial and federal grants, scholarships from religious or community organizations, and private foundations that support religious and humanities studies. The university's financial aid office offers comprehensive guidance to help students identify and apply for these opportunities. Work-study programs are available for eligible students, allowing them to work part-time on or near campus to earn money while gaining valuable experience related to their field of interest. Internships and co-op placements are sometimes financed through specific grants and partnerships, providing students with real-world experience while offsetting educational expenses.
For international students enrolled in the Religious Studies program, Saint Mary's University offers specific scholarships and funding options designed to support their educational pursuits in Canada. These international scholarships are competitive and are awarded based on academic excellence and potential contribution to campus diversity. In addition, international students may qualify for bursaries and external funding sources available to students studying in Canada.
The university's financial aid packages are designed to be flexible and comprehensive, often combining multiple sources of funding to meet individual student needs. Students are encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or equivalent provincial applications to maximize their financial support options. Detailed information about the available financing options, eligibility criteria, and application procedures can be obtained from Saint Mary's University’s financial aid office or through the university's official website. The goal of the university is to make higher education accessible and affordable for all students pursuing Religious Studies, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent talented individuals from engaging deeply with their academic, spiritual, and career aspirations.
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at Saint Mary's University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions across different cultures and historical periods. This program aims to explore the religious dimensions of human experience and their influence on society, politics, and culture. Students will examine major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Judaism, as well as indigenous and new religious movements. The curriculum typically includes courses in biblical studies, theology, ethical issues, religious philosophy, and the history of religion. Moreover, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and an understanding of religious diversity and interfaith dialogue. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, research projects, and possibly fieldwork, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into religious phenomena. The program prepares graduates for a variety of careers in education, community service, international relations, faith-based organizations, and further academic pursuits in religious studies or related fields. As Saint Mary's University emphasizes a liberal arts education, students are also encouraged to take courses across disciplines to foster a well-rounded understanding of social sciences, humanities, and international issues. Additionally, there may be opportunities for internships and collaborative research projects that enhance employability and professional development. The program can also serve students interested in pursuing graduate studies in theology, religious studies, pastoral ministry, or related areas. Saint Mary’s University’s Religious Studies program is characterized by its commitment to academic excellence, inclusivity, and fostering a respectful dialogue about different religious traditions and worldviews. Graduates emerge with a nuanced understanding of religious influence in contemporary society and the skills needed to analyze and respond to religious issues in various professional contexts.
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