Degree Level:
Undergraduate
school:
Division of Philosophy and Religious Studies
Learning Mode:
On Campus
Degree:
Minor

Minor in Religious Studies

Let’s talk about faith. Where did religion come from? What impact does it have on the world? What are the beliefs of various religions? The Religious Studies minor at the Mount offers students the opportunity to have open, real conversations about religion, faith, and theology and their place in the world.

Why study Religious Studies?

Students with teacher in cloisters

  • Dominican roots: Our Dominican heritage places an emphasis on veritas, or seeking truth. Our Religious Studies classes emphasize the importance of respectful dialogue around topics of faith and offer a safe space in which to learn and question. (Plus, our Chapel of the Most Holy Rosary is a pretty great spot in which to be inspired!)
  • Open to all: Whether you personally ascribe to a particular faith or no faith at all, everyone is welcome to declare a Religious Studies minor. The only requirements are that you keep an open mind and remain respectful!
  • Faith in action: Many religious traditions place great emphasis on the importance of helping others. As a service-oriented college, the Mount offers so many ways to put what you learn in religion class into action, a real life way of living out love of neighbor.

What to expect as a Religious Studies minor

12 credits of Religious Studies | 6 credits of Biblical Studies

Learn about Religious Studies minor academic requirements and courses here.

As a Religious Studies minor, you’ll take courses that allow you to have a broader understanding of religion and its impact on the world. Courses like Introduction to World Religions, Introduction to Theology, and Religious Movements in America provide foundational knowledge of religion, followed by courses that evaluate religion’s impact on everyday life, especially through courses like Theology of Film, Sports and Religion, and Fairy Tales and Sacraments. You’ll augment those studies with two courses in Biblical Studies to see how the Bible complements these themes.

You may also choose to participate in an independent study with a professor on a topic of your choice to fulfill one of your required courses.

Associate Professor of Religious Studies Robert Miller answering the question, "Does God care about sports?"

Be prepared for your future

No matter your line of work, you will encounter religious people. Being able to have conversations about faith is vital, and an understanding of different religious traditions is valuable in every career. 

A minor in Religious Studies can prepare one to pursue the subject at the graduate level. Additionally, the deductive, critical thinking, and language skills of this discipline are applicable to any career, and the courses should also give students a broader appreciation of religion in general for personal study and reflection.

Sarah Maple

Assistant Professor of Religious Studies
Contact
Email Address
Sarah.Maple@msmc.edu
Phone
845-569-3168
Location
Whittaker
Office Hours
MW
1-3pm

Robert Miller

Associate Professor of Religious Studies
Contact
Email Address
Robert.Miller@msmc.edu
Office
845-569-3463
Location
Whittaker 105
Office Hours
TR
1-2 pm
W
10-11 am

Meet the Division of Philosophy and Religious Faculty

Get to know the rest of our incredible Philosophy and Religious Studies professors! 

Division of Philosophy and Religious Faculty

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