BA in Religious Studies
What does it mean to be, or not to be? What makes life worth living? What values have stood the test of time? By studying the classics of various religious and philosophical traditions, Religious Studies students learn to think and question in ways that foster inner peace and contentment.
Marylhurst University provides an academic framework for religious insights and questions, examined in an atmosphere of acceptance. The bachelor’s degree program is designed to help students find meaning in life and service, now and in the future, as they seek personal enrichment and professional growth.
The Marylhurst Experience
Marylhurst's interdisciplinary approach provides students with a solid background in ethical, philosophical and religious studies encompassed in a broader liberal arts education.
The program's flexibility – 27 of the major's 61 credits are electives – allow students to design a curriculum to meet personal goals. The Religious Studies department chair advises each student in choosing a minor, or coursework, in other academic disciplines to prepare for a chosen career.
Students combine life experience with classroom learning in lectures, readings and conferences, small group discussion, reflective writing, artistic expression, guided imagery, pastoral practice, spiritual guidance, internships, research papers and special projects.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, students will:
- Comprehend the cultural foundations, literary expressions and ethical teachings of religious or philosophical systems;
- Identify personal, individual spirituality in relation to historical spiritual traditions; and
- Apply spiritual and philosophical values and knowledge to personal, social, political, international, economic or interfaith situations.
Spiritual Guide Training
The Religious Studies department has developed partnerships with several Spiritual Life Centers, such as Shalom and Mercy Center, to provide training for Marylhurst students who wish to become spiritual guides.
Career Paths
Graduates are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, social service agencies, educational institutions and corporations concerned with ethical issues.
The BA in Religious Studies also provides a strong foundation for graduate-level coursework, such as Marylhurst's Master of Arts in Applied Theology, Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry cooperative programs.