Religious Studies, Bachelor of Arts
Faculty:
Lisle Dalton; Gary Herion; Jeremy Wisnewski
Major
Religious Studies
Minor
Religious Studies
About
The world’s great religions are centered on the quest to find meaning and purpose in human life and existence. Religious beliefs and practices in various ways address not only what it means to be human, but also concepts such as good and evil, right and wrong. These beliefs and practices, in turn, help to shape the character of individual societies and cultures. Therefore, knowledge of religion and its various manifestations is indispensable to a study of the diverse social and cultural phenomena we encounter in the world around us.
Hartwick’s curriculum covers three areas. One focuses on the monotheistic traditions. Various courses in biblical studies take a historical approach examining the Bible in terms of its ancient historical and cultural contexts. Other courses in this area focus on Judaism, Christianity and Islam, providing students with an understanding of the impact that these Middle Eastern traditions have had upon the Western cultural heritage.
The second area covers the religious traditions of the Asian world, particularly Buddhism and Hinduism. There are also opportunities for studying other isolated non-Western religions (Sikhism, Zoroastrianism, Confucianism, Taoism, Shinto, Jainism). The primary aim is to provide students with fundamental conceptual frameworks for understanding the major non-Western cultures of the world in which these various religious traditions have been influential.
The third area deals with recent and contemporary religious expression in the West and includes courses on religion in the United States, new religious movements, and the relationship between religion and modern culture, including literature, science, medicine, entertainment, technology, politics, and social change. These courses use historical, literary, philosophical, and social scientific approaches to explore the challenges faced by religious traditions during the modern era, as well as their dynamism and adaptability.
Special study opportunities available through the department include off-campus programs in India, the Middle East, Washington DC, and New York City, usually offered periodically during January Terms in alternate years. Furthermore, because Oneonta is uniquely situated within a few hours’ drive of various important Buddhist, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu monasteries and centers, efforts are made to incorporate field trip experiences into regular course offerings. Courses also visit sacred sites, museums, and memorials in major urban centers such as Washington, DC and New York City.
Each student who wishes to major in Religious Studies must develop a program of study in the discipline in consultation with a faculty advisor. Majors also are encouraged to complement their study with courses in a variety of other disciplines which will enable them to understand more fully the interconnections among religion, history, literature, philosophy, the social sciences, art, and the sciences. Many students majoring in other departments choose to continue their interest in religion and religious phenomena by pursuing a minor in Religious Studies. Guidelines for both major and minor are described below.
Students with a special interest in combining the study of Philosophy with Religious Studies can pursue one of three degree options: 1) an 18-course double major; 2) a ten-course major (with senior thesis) in one program and a six course minor in the other; or 3) a 14-course major in Philosophy and Religious Studies, with one senior thesis bridging both disciplines. Students should meet with members of the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies to design the degree program that best suits their interests.
The departmental program offers the breadth and depth of study to prepare students to better understand the world, its diverse people and cultures, the challenges of the future, and the resources of the religious imagination that may help inspire us to engage the world and the future more responsibly. In the past, religious studies graduates have been drawn to careers in a diverse range of professions, including law, journalism, medicine, teaching, counseling, public relations, community organization, not-for-profit agencies, and even government service. Some have gone on to religious vocations, from Christian ministers to Buddhist monks. Others have chosen to continue the academic study of religion at the graduate level.