Course Overview

The Religious Studies program at Washington University in St. Louis offers a comprehensive exploration of religious traditions, beliefs, and practices across global cultures and historical contexts. Housed within the Department of Religious Studies, the program emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary approaches, and engagement with primary texts and contemporary issues. Students can specialize in areas such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, or comparative studies, with opportunities for original research and fieldwork.

Unique Features

The program stands out for its focus on interfaith dialogue and its integration of perspectives from anthropology, history, sociology, and philosophy. Students benefit from close interaction with faculty and access to a diverse range of courses that address both historical and modern dimensions of religion.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Religious Studies program are equipped for careers in education, nonprofit organizations, counseling, journalism, and public policy, as well as further academic pursuits in theology or related fields. The skills developed—such as - including critical analysis, cultural competency, and ethical reasoning—prepare students for roles that require nuanced understanding of diverse perspectives and global issues.

Key Faculty and Staff

• Dr. Leigh Eric Schmidt - Professor of Religion and Politics, known for research on American religious history.
• Dr. Beata Grant - Professor of Chinese Religion and Literature, specializing in Buddhism and gender studies.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

The university provides access to specialized resources such as the John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics, which fosters research and public discourse on the intersection of faith and governance. Additionally, partnerships with local religious communities and institutions offer students opportunities for immersive learning and community engagement.