B.A. in Religious Studies
Program Information
Founded in the past century, the field of religious studies endeavors to better understand religion by means of modern academic approaches. Philosophical questions are considered, such as are all mystical experiences in essence the same, and can we reconcile evil with the existence of god(s)? But the field also asks anthropological, sociological, political, literary, and historical questions: How have the beliefs and practices of Shinto shaped the modern Japanese corporation? Why did first-century Gnostic Christianity lose out to what we would eventually come to know as Christian Orthodoxy? What is the meaning of the “Epic of Gilgamesh”? Who was the Buddha?
Suggested Schedule of Courses
This is a suggested 4-year schedule of courses based on degree requirements in the current catalog.
This guide is not a substitute for academic advisement — contact your advisement office if you have any questions about scheduling or about your degree requirements. Also see the Undergraduate Catalog for a complete list of requirements and electives to choose from.
Students may choose to attend a summer term to reduce their load during fall or spring semesters but still stay on track to graduate in four years.
If considering this major, RELS 2001 will allow you to explore this option before making a decision.
Year 1
Term 1
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| 3 | |
|
LANG 1002 |
3 |
| 3 | |
|
**GSU 1010 |
1 |
|
Area D Elective |
4 |
| Total Hours | 14 |
Notes
**GSU 1010 is an optional course for students enrolled in a Freshman Learning Community.
Connect locally. RELS 4890 explores the history and diversity of Atlanta’s religious communities through site visits, guest speakers, lectures and readings.
Get career-ready. RELS 4400 and JST 3500 internships provide field experience, often leading to recommendations and employment opportunities.
Strengthen your voice. Design and complete individual research projects (RELS 4870, 4880, 4950).
Year 2
Term 1
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| 3 | |
|
Area B Elective |
2 |
|
Area C Elective |
3 |
|
Area D Elective |
3 |
|
Area E Elective |
3 |
|
Area F Elective |
3 |
| Total Hours | 17 |
Notes
Connect locally. RELS 4890 explores the history and diversity of Atlanta’s religious communities through site visits, guest speakers, lectures and readings.
Get career-ready. RELS 4400 and JST 3500 internships provide field experience, often leading to recommendations and employment opportunities.
Strengthen your voice. Design and complete individual research projects (RELS 4870, 4880, 4950).
Year 3
Term 1
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
|
Area F Elective |
3 |
|
Area G Elective |
3 |
| 3 | |
|
Area H Elective |
3 |
|
Area H Elective |
3 |
| Total Hours | 15 |
Term 2
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
|
Area G Elective |
3 |
|
Area G Elective |
3 |
|
Area G Elective |
3 |
|
Area H Elective |
3 |
|
Area H Elective |
3 |
| Total Hours | 15 |
Notes
*This course fulfills the CTW requirement.
Click here for courses that fulfill Area G and H and may also include a Signature Experience component.
Connect locally. RELS 4890 explores the history and diversity of Atlanta’s religious communities through site visits, guest speakers, lectures and readings.
Get career-ready. RELS 4400 and JST 3500 internships provide field experience, often leading to recommendations and employment opportunities.
Strengthen your voice. Design and complete individual research projects (RELS 4870, 4880, 4950).
Year 4
Term 1
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
|
Area G Elective |
3 |
|
Area G Elective |
3 |
|
Area G Elective |
3 |
|
Area H Elective |
3 |
|
Area H Elective |
3 |
| Total Hours | 15 |
Term 2
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
|
Area G Elective |
3 |
| 3 | |
|
Area H Elective |
3 |
|
Area H Elective |
3 |
|
Area H Elective |
3 |
| Total Hours | 15 |
Notes
Click here for courses that fulfill Area G and H and may also include a Signature Experience component.
Connect locally. RELS 4890 explores the history and diversity of Atlanta’s religious communities through site visits, guest speakers, lectures and readings.
Get career-ready. RELS 4400 and JST 3500 internships provide field experience, often leading to recommendations and employment opportunities.
Strengthen your voice. Design and complete individual research projects (RELS 4870, 4880, 4950).