Religious Studies

About religious studies

Studying religion develops the knowledge and empathy to engage meaningfully with people of diverse beliefs and backgrounds. The religious studies major prepares you for seminary or graduate school and for a variety of careers including those in:

Ministry
Missions
Teaching
Law
Consulting
Counseling
Nonprofit and human services organizations

Furthermore, the study of religion, ethics, and philosophy provides a strong foundation for interpersonal relationships, civic engagement, and professional achievement.

The Religion major and minor, as well as the Philosophy minor, are very flexible, allowing you to tailor your degree to your interests and goals.

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What good is a religious studies degree?

Religious Studies Major Map

First Year

Category	To Do
Courses	Take at least two of the following courses: REL 110, REL 126, REL 140, PHIL 110 Make progress towards General Education course requirements
Opportunities	Explore clubs and service organizations on campus Connect with the CCG
Research	Talk with faculty about their current research interests and projects
Exploration	Take the FOCUS2 Inventory offered through Career Services Connect with upper class students about their graduate school or career plans

Second Year

Category	To Do
Courses	Take REL 209 and/or REL 216 Take one or two other Religion or Philosophy courses
Opportunities	Consider becoming a Peer Mentor for Gateway 101 Explore on-campus job opportunities Inquire about joining the Ethics Bowl team
Research	Check out the W'Engage seminar offerings Consider submitting a paper to the Wellspring Research Symposium
Exploration	Attend Faith Lyceums offered by Career Services

Third Year

Category	To Do
Courses	Take three to four Religion or Philosophy electives at the 300-400 level Take courses toward a minor Finish remaining General Education courses
Opportunities	Pursue a paid or volunteer experience related to your interests Do an internship for course credit
Research	Partner with a faculty member and apply for Reeves Summer Research Grant
Exploration	Begin to explore graduate school plans or a specific career that interests you Start preparing for the GRE or other tests you may need to take

Fourth Year

Category	To Do
Courses	Take three to four Religion or Philosophy electives at the 300-400 level Make sure you have met all requirements for graduation
Opportunities	Mentor younger Religion and Philosophy majors and minors Take a leadership role in the CCG
Research	Submit a research paper to a state or regional conference
Exploration	Develop a personal statement, cover letter, and resume with Career Services Apply to seminary or graduate school

In community

In addition to our classes, we offer opportunities to further your education, gain valuable practical and pastoral skills, and prepare for a career. Summer research grants enable students to work closely with faculty members on research projects. Internships and directed studies with faculty members, local churches, and local non-profit organizations give students valuable experiences and skills beyond classroom learning.

CCG

Do you know about the Collaboration for the Common Good? Come take a look to see where you'll be making a difference on campus, in community and around the state.

Explore CCG

Questions?

Dr. Mark Roncace
(704) 233-8069
mroncace@wingate.edu