Roberts Department of Religion

Engage the richness of the world’s religious traditions

Students who major or minor in religion, will gain invaluable skills that will prepare them for graduate school in any field, any career, and most importantly, life. In our religion curriculum, you will learn how to:

• Interpret sacred texts responsibly in their historical, literary, and contemporary contexts.
• Describe accurately where the beliefs and practices of multiple religions differ and intersect.
• Write effectively using theories and methods relevant to the academic study of religion.

Majors and minors

• Religion (major and minor) — Earn a Bachelor of Arts degree while you travel on a journey of exploration to discover insights to the most essential aspects of life. This program will teach you how to analyze a text, apply your knowledge to daily task, converse objectively with others, and think and write critically. As a Religion student, you will have the opportunity to attend thought-provoking lectures and participate in community service.
• Religion and Public Diplomacy (minor) — Examine the influence of religion on international relations and how religion can be used as a constructive instrument for peace. This program focuses on inter-religious dialogue and the idea that learning about others’ beliefs, practices, promotes understanding and tolerance.

Certificates

• Faith-Based Diplomacy — In this program, you will explore how religion and public life intersect and learn how religion can be used to build trust and cooperation among people. This certificate has a significant service requirement in which you are encouraged to be an interfaith leader in the Mercer community.