Religious Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Ottawa offers students a comprehensive and multidisciplinary exploration of religious beliefs, practices, texts, and traditions across the globe. This program aims to deepen understanding of the role religion plays in shaping cultures, societies, and individual identities throughout history and in contemporary settings. Through a diverse curriculum, students examine major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and Indigenous spiritual practices, as well as smaller religious movements and new religious expressions. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and intercultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in education, community work, public policy, international relations, journalism, or further academic study.

Students engage with a wide range of topics including theology, ethics, philosophy of religion, religious texts, rituals, and the social impacts of religious communities. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from history, sociology, anthropology, and literature, thus providing a holistic view of religion as a fundamental aspect of human experience. Courses are taught by faculty members who are experts in their fields, many of whom conduct active research on religion and society. The program also offers opportunities for experiential learning through internships, community projects, and study abroad programs, fostering practical skills and global perspectives.

By completing this program, students will develop the ability to analyze religious phenomena critically, communicate effectively about complex ideas, and appreciate the diversity of religious expressions around the world. This prepares graduates for dynamic careers that benefit from an understanding of religious influences in various contexts. The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Ottawa underscores the importance of dialogue, respect, and critical inquiry in an increasingly interconnected world, encouraging students to become informed and engaged global citizens.

• SECOND TEMPLE JUDAISM
• PSYCHOANALYSIS AND RELIGION
• FREUD, JUNG AND RELIGION
• ORIGINS OF CHRISTIANITY
• SEMINAR IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
• CURRENT APPROACHES TO THE STUDY OF RELIGION
• RELIGION AND SOCIETY IN CROSS-CULTURAL ANALYSIS
• RELIGION AND ANTHROPOLOGY - SELECTED TOPICS
• HISTORY OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES
• RELIGIOUS TEXTS AND NARRATIVES
• RELIGIOUS RITES AND SYMBOLS
• SEMINAR IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
• RELIGION, ART AND CULTURE
• CURRENT APPROACHES TO THE STUDY OF RELIGION
• GODDESSES AND WOMEN IN MYTH AND SYMBOL
• SECOND TEMPLE JUDAISM
• ORIGINS OF CHRISTIANITY
• RELIGION IN LATE ANTIQUITY
• SHAMANIC TRADITIONS
• THESIS PROPOSAL
• RESEARCH PAPER
• RELIGION AND LAW
• RELIGION AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in religious studies or equivalent
• Application Fee:$100.00 ($CDN non-refundable)
• 2 Recommendation letter(s)
• Transcript
• Proof of proficiency in your program's language of instruction, in the case of applicants whose first language is neither English nor French
  Language proficiency test scores equivalencies:TOEFL 580 / IELTS Overall 6.5 - Individual 6.0 (Paper-based), TOEFL 92-93/IELTS 6.5 – Individual 6.0 (Internet-based)
• A statement of reseach interests
• Resume required

Scholarships

• Full/Partial FGPS Scholarship
• Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS)

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Ottawa offers students an extensive and interdisciplinary exploration of religious beliefs, practices, and communities across the globe and throughout history. This program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role religion plays in shaping societies, cultures, and individual identities. Students examine a diverse range of religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and indigenous spiritual practices, integrating perspectives from history, anthropology, philosophy, and theology.

Throughout their studies, students develop critical thinking and analytical skills by engaging with primary and secondary sources, engaging in thoughtful discussion, and conducting independent research. The curriculum emphasizes understanding religious expressions both in historical context and contemporary society, encouraging students to explore issues such as religious identity, secularism, human rights, and interfaith dialogue. The program fosters an awareness of the complex ways religion intersects with politics, gender, and social justice.

Students have opportunities to participate in specialized seminars, fieldwork, internships, and study abroad programs, which enhance their practical understanding of religious communities and practices. The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths, including education, community service, government, journalism, and further academic research or graduate studies. The University of Ottawa's emphasis on bilingual education allows students to develop proficiency in both English and French, which is advantageous in international and governmental contexts.

Faculty members in the Religious Studies department are engaged in innovative research and publish work on contemporary and historical religious issues. The department promotes an inclusive environment where diverse religious perspectives are examined critically and respectfully. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Ottawa equips students with the knowledge, skills, and cultural awareness essential for understanding the dynamic and multifaceted nature of religion in the modern world.