The Religious Studies (B.A.) at Eckerd College invites you to explore the profound impact of religion on human culture, societies, and individual lives. This undergraduate degree is designed for intellectually curious students eager to understand diverse religious phenomena, from ancient scriptures and rituals to contemporary spiritual movements and their intersection with politics, race, and gender. You will delve into critical approaches to studying religion, examining its role in shaping identities, ethics, and worldviews across various cultural forms and historical periods. Eckerd College offers a welcoming environment for all, regardless of religious background, to engage with fundamental questions about existence and meaning.
This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Arts program unfolds over four years, providing a comprehensive exploration of religious traditions and their expressions. You will engage with a rich syllabus covering topics such as African American religions, Buddhism, Gnosticism, and the complex relationship between religion and society, including extremism, environmentalism, and social justice. Through discussion-based courses and student-centered learning, you will develop strong analytical and comparative skills. Graduates of Eckerd College's Religious Studies program are prepared for advanced academic study or careers in fields requiring cultural understanding, critical thinking, and nuanced communication.