The study of religion explores the ways in which people across the globe imagine themselves to have a meaningful existence in the universe, human society, and nature.  Religion relates speculative ideas on the essence of humankind to worldly existence, and as such is inextricably tied to the development of civilizations.  It has played a foundational role in establishing order in the world through structures of governance, codes of ethics, and rules of law.  In defining the gracious life, religion has created a rich resource of symbols and images that have served as a catalyst for the fine arts, architecture, the performing arts, and literature.  Religion continues to have a high-profile presence in the world today as a source of both conflict and peace.

The study of religion as a liberal arts subject is a modern phenomenon that emerged to address the ongoing necessity of global understanding.  It is by nature an interdisciplinary form of study, engaging art, history, literature, philosophy, anthropology, sociology, psychology, and political science.  As a Humanities subject in the liberal arts tradition, the study of religion prepares one to act in the world with a precision of knowledge, language skills, and ethical awareness that meet the demands of communication, mutual understanding, and problem-solving in today’s global village.  In addition to students who will continue in the field of religion, students who will engage in careers that have a pronounced global dimension, including the arts, journalism, education, international law, international business, diplomatic service, public policy, humanitarian aid and philanthropy, and many more, will benefit from the academic study of religion.