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Requirements
Religious Studies
At Beloit College, religion is studied primarily in the context of the Critical Identity Studies Department. The Religious Studies major and minor are no longer available to entering students as of Fall 2021.
Rather than isolating the study of religion as though it were discrete from other aspects of human experience, we examine lifeways—religious and non-religious—as they intersect with normative and non-normative identities based on races, genders, sexualities, dis/abilities, nations, etc.).
We engage with elements of religious and secular thought and practice not so much as separate “belief systems,” but rather as critical and constructive resources for both questioning the things we take for granted about the world and offering different possibilities.
Majors
- Nine departmental units:
- Religious Studies 101.
- Religious Studies 250 and 385. These courses address speaking and writing in the discipline.
- Six elective units in religious studies (including courses cross-listed with religious studies).
- Supporting courses (4 units): chosen in consultation with the advisor.
- Majors are strongly advised to acquire proficiency at the intermediate level in a classical or modern language chosen in relation to the student’s individual They are also encouraged to pursue an internship, study abroad, or other experiential learning opportunity.
- Students with a GPA 3.6 or above in courses in the major may apply in the fall of the senior year for honors. Honors are awarded based on development and public presentation of an outstanding senior thesis, in addition to overall excellence.
Minors
- Religious Studies 101.
- Religious Studies 250.
- Four additional units in religious studies.