| Religious Studies
at Saint Francis University Religious Studies majors at Saint Francis University explore the universal dimension of the religious experience as expressed through the Catholic-Christian faith, Franciscan tradition, and other world religions. Our curriculum emphasizes the Franciscan Values of Higher Education by highlighting the centrality of religion and its influence on concepts from science and politics to fine arts and athletics, while examining social justice and ethical traditions that invite students to put their faith into action locally and globally. Click here to hear testimonials from past and present students.
After completing our course of study, majors in Religious Studies will be able to: - relate Catholic and Franciscan historical, cultural, religious, and theological perspectives to contemporary issues;
- explain the history, culture, and theology of more than one major non-Christian religious tradition;
- evaluate foundational theoretical perspectives relating to the theological, social, ethical, and practical dimensions of religion;
- apply principles for making ethical decisions that promote peace, justice, and compassion for all of creation; and
- demonstrate effective writing and communication skills.
All incoming majors will meet with a member of the department to develop a learning plan. The student and faculty member will set up an action plan at the beginning of each academic year, explicating a time line for submissions to each year’s portfolio. At the beginning of the senior year, the student will submit a written thesis statement to the faculty member, along with due dates for the rough and final drafts of the thesis. With proper guidance and planning, majors will be prepared to pursue careers in religious education, political advocacy, environmental activism, ministry, pastoral counseling, family services, law, social services, and global and community development. Special Features - National Honor Society for Theology/Religious Studies, Theta Alpha Kappa (Alpha Gamma chapter), ACHS member.
- Delta Epsilon Sigma, National Catholic Honors Society
- RLST 410, “Christian Service,” a practicum in Religious Studies which gives students an opportunity for service with neighboring agencies, in summer volunteer work, or in a foreign country.
- Opportunities to contribute to the department’s Ethics Institute, which hosts an annual lecture and other special events.
- Opportunities to participate in the Consortium for Educational Resources on Islamic Studies (CERIS), of which the university is a member institution.
- Field Trips and Intercollegiate Seminars with faculty members and other students.
- Special association with the Dorothy Day Center for Justice and Peace is an added dimension for student Christian life and practice.
- Opportunities to combine career objectives in Political Science, Psychology, Social Work, Education, etc. with Christian values and goals. Such combined study makes one especially attractive to future employers.
- International study programs in Mexico, Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, Italy, and France, with opportunities to study religion and do service.
- Encouragement for students to publish in the Journal of Theta Alpha Kappa and Saint Francis University’s undergraduate journal, Sightings.
- Opportunities to become an active member and hold an office in the Philosophy Club.
- Opportunities to participate in conferences, such as the annual North American Undergraduate Conference in Religion and Philosophy, co-sponsored by Saint Francis University and Westminster College.
Please explore the website for further course information. If you have any other questions about Religious Studies at Saint Francis University, please call (814) 472-3372.
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