Course Overview

The Religious Studies program at Brown University offers a comprehensive exploration of religious traditions, beliefs, and practices across global cultures and historical contexts. The program emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary approaches, and the study of religion's impact on society, politics, and culture. Students engage with diverse methodologies, including textual analysis, ethnography, and historical research, to understand the complexities of religious phenomena.

Unique Features

A distinctive aspect of this program is its integration with Brown's open curriculum, allowing students to tailor their studies by combining Religious Studies with other disciplines. The department also fosters close interaction with faculty through small seminar-style classes and research opportunities.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the program are equipped for careers in education, non-profit organizations, public policy, journalism, and cultural advocacy. The critical thinking and analytical skills developed also prepare students for advanced studies in theology, law, or related fields.

Key Faculty and Staff

The department includes renowned scholars such as Professor Susan Harvey, a specialist in late antique Christianity, and Professor Thomas Lewis, whose work focuses on religion and ethics. Faculty expertise spans a wide range of traditions, including Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity.

Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to extensive library resources, including specialized collections in religious texts and manuscripts. The program also benefits from affiliations with local and international research centers, providing opportunities for fieldwork and collaborative projects.