Religion is a complex network of ideas and actions (ethical and ritual) that express a group’s sense of the ultimate meaning of life. The academic study of religion examines how the beliefs and values of contemporary and historical cultures shape and are shaped by societal factors, long-standing traditions, and distinctive forms of literary and artistic expression. Religion scholars ask not whether certain beliefs are true but what they mean to those who hold them to be true, how they came to have a particular form and content, and what impact they have on their intellectual and social environments. Skill in close reading of texts and critical analysis of concepts and historical relationships are among the benefits of such study, which has been found helpful by many preparing for careers in theology, education, law, medicine, journalism, international business, government, and social work.

Enrollment Date: Fall and/or Spring Semester
Minimum Required Credits: 60
Campus: Fort Dodge, Storm Lake, and Webster City
Department: Social Science
CIP#: 24.01010200