Why study religion?

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What can I do with a religious studies degree?

What can't you do with a religious studies degree? The world is changing dramatically and just about every community is becoming (or will become) more religiously diverse. Those who are able to understand the changing world and the religiously diverse communities in which they live are more likely to be successful as professionals and as citizens. Students who have completed the religion program have gone on to a wide variety of careers, to graduate schools in religious studies, to seminary, and to a variety of other graduate programs. For example, recent graduates have gone to Harvard University Divinity School, Asbury Theological Seminary, Duke University Divinity School, and Florida State University's doctoral program in religious studies. And because the religion major is relatively small in terms of credit hours, students easily combine it with other majors'including many that typically lead to immediate post-graduate employment.

 

This sounds good, but what if I'm not sure?

The academic study of religion is seldom taught in high school, so most students have no idea what to expect in a religious studies class. Because the majority of our religious studies courses meet a Colonnade (general education) requirement, it is possible for students to get a taste of religious studies on a 'no risk' basis; that is, the course can simply be used to fulfill a general education requirement or it may also be used as a first step toward a major or minor (see the major requirements for details). Either way, the course counts toward fulfilling graduation requirements.

 

Why study religion at Western Kentucky University?

Simply put, the undergraduate religion program at WKU is the largest and best in the state of Kentucky. Its faculty contains internationally recognized scholars in the field who are committed teachers.