Religious Studies
Religious Studies Resources
Whether you are considering a major or minor in Religious Studies, conducting research, or exploring opportunities after graduation, the resources below can help you learn more about the academic study of religion.
What Is Religious Studies?
Religious Studies is the academic study of religion as a part of human history, society, and culture. Scholars examine religious beliefs, practices, texts, institutions, and experiences using approaches drawn from philosophy, history, anthropology, sociology, literature, and other disciplines.
Religious Studies does not require students to hold any particular religious beliefs. Rather than promoting or rejecting a religious tradition, the field seeks to understand how religions develop, change, and shape human experience.
Religious Studies, Theology, and Divinity
Although these fields often overlap, Religious Studies differs from programs primarily concerned with religious instruction or preparation for ministry.
Religious Studies examines religion from academic perspectives, including historical, philosophical, comparative, and social-scientific approaches. Students investigate religious traditions critically without being required to adopt or defend particular beliefs.
Theology often examines religious beliefs, doctrines, and practices from within a religious tradition, although theology can also involve critical and comparative scholarship.
Divinity schools and seminaries offer a variety of programs, some preparing students for ministry and religious leadership, and others focusing on academic research in religion.
Students interested in religion as an academic subject, regardless of their personal beliefs, will find Religious Studies an opportunity to explore the diversity and complexity of religious life.
American Academy of Religion
The American Academy of Religion (AAR) is a leading professional association dedicated to advancing the academic study of religion and improving public understanding of religion. Its publications and educational resources offer valuable introductions to the field.
Explore the importance of studying religion and its relevance to contemporary society, culture, and public life.
Learn what college graduates should understand about religion, including religious diversity, historical change, and critical analysis.
An introduction to graduate education in Religious Studies and Theology, including considerations when selecting a degree program.
Visit the AAR website for additional scholarly resources, publications, and professional opportunities.
Research and Library Resources
ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ Libraries provides scholarly resources for the academic study of religion, including research databases, reference materials, and guides to different religious traditions and research methods.
Start here for scholarly books, articles, reference works, and research databases.
Explore philosophical, historical, sociological, and other approaches to studying religion.
Find additional research tools for interdisciplinary work in the humanities.
Student Resources and Forms
Students completing advanced research or capstone projects should consult with Religious Studies faculty about project expectations, appropriate research methods, and available academic resources.
- RLGN Capstone Project Proposal
Proposal form for students planning a Religious Studies capstone project.