Directions for Election
In a liberal arts college, the study of religion constitutes an integral part of the humanities and social sciences. Recognizing religion as an elemental expression of human life and culture, past and present, the department offers courses in the major religious traditions of the world. These courses examine both the individual and the collective dimensions of religion and approach their subject from a variety of perspectives including historical and textual, theological, and social scientific.
The major consists of a minimum of nine units, at least two of which must be at the 300-level, including a seminar, and no more than two 100-level courses. A maximum of three courses taken outside the Department may be counted toward the major, no more than two of which may be taken at an institution other than Wellesley.
The major requires both a concentration in a specific field of study and adequate exposure to the diversity of the world’s religions and cultures. To ensure depth, a major must present a concentration of at least four courses, including a seminar, in an area of study that she has chosen in consultation with and approved by her departmental advisor. This concentration may be defined by, for example, a particular religion, cultural-geographical area, canon, period of time, or theme. To promote breadth, a major must complete a minimum of two courses, also to be approved by her departmental advisor, devoted to religious cultures or traditions that are distinct both from each other and from the area of concentration. All majors are urged to discuss their courses of study with their advisors before the end of the first semester of their junior year.
The minor consists of a minimum of five courses, including at least one seminar and no more than two 100-level courses. Three of the five courses, including a seminar, should be within an area of concentration chosen by the student in consultation with and approved by her departmental advisor.
In addition, it is strongly recommended that all majors and minors attend REL 399 (Religion Department Colloquium) and that senior majors and minors elect it for credit.
For some students, studies in the original language of religious traditions will be especially valuable. Majors and minors interested in pursuing language study should consult their advisors to determine the appropriateness of such work for their programs.