University of Minnesota
Religious Studies
rels@umn.edu
612-624-5233


Religious Studies

Welcome to Religious Studies!

Religion is a fundamental part of human experience and meaning. It informs all aspects of human society, from individual and collective identity to personal relationships to political sympathies to scientific investigation to artistic creativity. The study of religion, as a result, ranges widely across human experience and the various academic disciplines.

The religious studies major brings together perspectives, approaches, questions, and expertise from many disciplines. It provides you with a range of analytical tools as well as in-depth knowledge of particular traditions and time periods.

You'll study the range of religious phenomena by

  • interpreting religious texts
  • tracing the development of institutions and practices
  • examining the experiences and histories of specific communities
  • exploring the intersections between religious belief and practice and their social and cultural contexts

Upcoming Events

  • Religious Studies Roundup

    Date: Thursday, September 24th 2009
    Time: 1:00 PM
    Location: Nicholson #135

    Current religious studies majors and minors, as well as students interested in the study of religion, are invited to attend. The event is an opportunity to learn about the religious studies program, get to know other RELS students, meet faculty, and much more! Lunch is on us!

  • Ethical, Methodological, and Pedagogical Challenges in the Empirical Study of Religion: A Workshop with Robert A. Orsi

    Wednesday, July 22nd
    Location: Nolte 125

    Faculty, graduate students, and staff who are engaged in the scholarly study of religion are warmly invited to attend this free, one-day workshop!

    Workshop Schedule.doc

    *Registration Closed

News & Announcements

  • History of religion tops historians' research interests

    According to the American Historical Association, the most frequently selected field of interest among their members in 2009 was "history of religion," which was selected by 7.7% of the 15,055 members. Religion nudged out Cultural History for the top spot by a mere .2% More information can be found here.

  • The Immortal Woman: A New Article From CLA Discoveries

    History professor and Religious Studies Steering Committee member, Ann Waltner uncovers the story of Ming-era Tanyangzi: visionary, mystic, immortal.

    Learn more

  • Spring 2009 Newsletter

    Read the premier issue of the Religious Studies Program newsletter (PDF).