Religious Studies Department

Mission

Rooted in the Catholic and Dominican traditions where “faith seeks understanding,” Religious Studies at Edgewood College employs academic inquiry, scholarly research, experiential learning and intellectual reflection to examine the religious experience and its multiple expressions. In so doing, we develop our critical intellectual capacities, expand the understanding of ourselves and our world; deepen our own spiritualties and commitments; and cultivate genuine respect and appreciation for the truths and values expressed in the traditions and spiritualties of others.

Policies

Students planning a major or minor in Religious Studies should consult with an advisor in the Religious Studies Department at the beginning of their program. Normally, a minimum of 40 academic credits for the major or 20 academic credits for the minor must be taken in Religious Studies at Edgewood College. Any transfer of religious studies credits is subject to evaluation by the department.

In addition to the 40 credits, all students majoring in Religious Studies will:

• Prepare an Academic Portfolio to be reviewed by the Religious Studies faculty at the end of each academic year.
• Submit at least one major research paper for presentation at an Edgewood College Student Research, Religious Studies or similar conference during their last four semesters.
• Submit a form indicating the completion of (a) the Academic Portfolio and (b) the presentation of a major research paper to the Registrar during the last semester before graduation.
• Complete the minimum 120 credits required by the College with a GPA of at least 2.85 in Religious Studies courses.

Focus Areas

Students may wish to focus their coursework in one of the following recommended areas of study: Biblical Studies, Pre-Theological Studies, Christian Ministries or Social and Ecological Justice. An advisor in the Religious Studies Department will assist students in choosing appropriate courses.

Students interested in youth, campus, family, pastoral, liturgical, social justice of other specialized ministries are encouraged to supplement their Religious Studies major (40 academic credits) with Professional Courses in Religious Studies, appropriate minors or recommended areas of study in disciplines related to this work. The Religious Studies advisor will assist in exploring and choosing among the options.

The Religious Studies curriculum at Edgewood College includes three areas of investigation: Scriptures and Sacred Texts, Religious Traditions and Theologies, and Religion in the Human Community.