Religious Studies (BA)

Why Religious Studies?

Timeless questions, contemporary challenges: As a Religious Studies major, you’ll explore both, approaching your studies from many perspectives as you engage with the meaning of human experience and attempt to realize ideals of peace and justice in an imperfect world.

Why Study Religious Studies at Iona?

At Iona, Religious Studies is a versatile, academically challenging major that will stretch your mind, heart, and spirit. Our program will foster the development of your character, compassion and dedication to global service. You’ll discover many opportunities to put theory into practice through internships and service-learning experiences, both in New York City and in other communities around the world.

This major will also provide you with a solid foundation for a wide variety of careers.

Our Religious Studies faculty is made up of engaged researchers and recognized scholars, many of whom hold offices in national and international academic societies. You will learn in small classes under the guidance of accomplished teachers who will provide personal, one-on-one mentoring as you pursue your unique interests. They are committed to helping you shape your path to success, whether you choose to further your studies in graduate school or enter the workforce after graduation.

What You’ll Learn

Exploring subjects such as ethics, spirituality, sacred literature, and theology, you’ll open paths of inquiry into Catholicism and the religious diversity of the 21^st century. As you expand your knowledge and understanding of the beliefs and practice of various religious traditions, you’ll develop analytical and critical thinking skills that will serve you well in your life and career.

You’ll grapple with the issue of religion, and particularly Catholicism, in the contemporary world, and become immersed in considerations of systematic theology, sacred texts, religious ethics and spirituality, and wider views of religion and culture. Ethics, including sexual and medical ethics, morality, tolerance, and injustice will be placed in spiritual and historical contexts, even as you learn to connect these questions to everyday life today.

You'll be prepared to engage matters of ultimacy, and be invited to deepen your self-awareness and contemplative reflectiveness.

Explore Courses

Minor Available

Unique Elements of Program

• Access to The Deignan Institute for Earth and Spirit, an initiative dedicated to environmental education and protection;
• Take part in Annual Shoah and Kristallnacht commemorations through Iona's Brother John G. Driscoll Professorship in Jewish-Catholic Studies;
• and more!