Religious studies

Program description:

The interdisciplinary program in religious studies investigates the roles, meanings, history and phenomenology of religion. Some courses (for the most part those offered through the theology department) focus on the religious traditions themselves, their classical texts, historical figures and movements, conceptual and affectual concerns, ethical and social teachings, cultural and political impacts. Other courses (for the most part those offered by other departments) identify the significance of religion and of religious ideas and symbolism within the wider world of history, society, literature, and the arts.

All students interested in majoring, second majoring, or minoring in religious studies should discuss their interests with the director. In consultation with the director, each student will develop a program of study. It is important to note that the courses listed Religious Studies Courses page are only representative of the choices available. Consultation with the director is necessary in order for students to have full access to other courses that fulfill major, second major, and minor requirements.

Degree requirements:

The major consists of 10 courses:
The first-year theology core course: RSRU 1000-Faith and Critical Reason

A second-year theology core course on a religious scripture or scriptures

A course in theology or ethics/social teachings

A course in the history of a religion

A course on religion in culture, society, or the political order

A core values seminar related to religious studies

7-10. Any four electives from the religious studies program offerings

Note: Among courses 2-10, at least one must have as a major focus a religion or religions other than Christianity. Students may double-count two approved religious studies courses toward the religious studies major and toward a second major, as long as at least 18 different courses are taken to complete both majors.

The minor consists of 6 courses:
The first-year theology core course, RSRU 1000-Faith and Critical Reason.

A second-year theology core course on a religious scripture or scriptures.

3-6. Any four electives from the religious studies program offerings.

Note: Among courses 2-6, at least one must have as a major focus a religion or religions other than Christianity. Students may double-count approved religious studies courses toward the religious studies minor and toward another major, as long as at least 14 different courses are taken to complete the major and minor.

Religious studies courses:

Click here for a list of representative  Religious studies courses.

Check Fordham University's OASIS system for a list of current course offerings.

Contact information:

Director:
Dr. Kathryn Kueny
Director, Religious Studies Program
Clinical Associate Professor of Theology
Fordham University
Lincoln Center
113 West 60th Street
New York, NY 10023
212-636-7143
kueny@fordham.edu