Religious Studies

About Religious Studies

In Religious Studies, students analyze fundamental questions relating to the meaning of human existence. The program provides a strong basis for compassionate global citizenship and global cultural literacy. It interests students associated with a particular religious tradition, and those with no formal religious traditions.

Why study Religious Studies at StFX?

The StFX Religious Studies Department is growing and, in addition to traditional courses, offers you innovative studies covering topics that range from the paranormal to cults and new religious movements.

You learn from dedicated faculty who also work in the areas of ethics and religion and health, who have extensive knowledge in the study of mindfulness, and who bring a strong ability to work in primary languages and a series of modern languages.

Students have presented research papers at the Congress of the Social Sciences and Humanities, and have opportunity to enroll in a one-of-a-kind course offered in cooperation with Gampo Abbey that includes one week residential study at this Buddhist monastery on Cape Breton Island.

First Year Religious Studies:

As a first year student, you will take two classes, “Compassionate global citizenship: World Religions I and II”, which covers indigenous traditions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam and contemporary religious movements. Senior students complete more advanced study of Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity and contemporary religious movements.

Rewarding careers in Religious Studies:

Many students go on to pursue a graduate degree with the intention of becoming priests, ministers, or university professors. Graduates also have an excellent chance of obtaining teaching positions in Roman Catholic school systems throughout the world.

Religious Studies students often continue on to work as lawyers, or in areas relating to international development or education. Familiarity with the world’s religious traditions is increasingly essential in healthcare-related, government or any field with a global view.

Flexible degree choices:

As a Religious Studies student, you may pursue a major, advanced major, or honours with a subsidiary subject of Celtic Studies, English, History, Modern Languages, Philosophy or Psychology.