Religious Studies is an academic discipline that focuses upon the distinctively religious aspects of human concern, both cultural and historical. Courses in religious studies are critical in approach and comparative with regard to the various religious traditions. At the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, the Religious Studies program undertakes the academic analysis of religious phenomena without advocating any particular religious tradition. A major or minor in religious studies can be selected for the general education background that it offers. The discipline provides strong preparation for graduate or professional studies in a wide range of fields. At UW – Eau Claire, a liberal arts major and minor are offered in religious studies as well as a teaching minor in religious studies.

What will I learn from studying Religious Studies?

Knowledge:

A religious studies student's knowledge coursework provides a general overview on many different religions and religious issues. In addition to studying Western religions and Non-Western religions, students may choose from courses in critical approach to religions and thematic courses to enhance general knowledge about the subject matter.

Skills:

• Communicate ideas and emotions creatively
• Make critical observations and appropriate decisions
• Broad background of general knowledge
• Speak articulately and listen
• Read critically
• Comprehend complex ideas and philosophies

What are some of the interests and values related to Religious Studies?

• Intellectual growth
• Curiosity
• Desire to learn
• Contemplation
• Extensive reading skills
• Interest in pursuing, exploring, explaining intangible ideas

What are related student and professional organizations?

Student:

• On-Campus Religious Groups

Professional:

• American Academy of Religion
• North American Association for the Study of Religion

What career fields are related to a Religious Studies Degree?

Potential Employers:

Religious studies graduates can use their education in a variety of fields. In many cases, their positions closely relate to their personal career interests, work values, and transferable skills. Employers of religious studies graduates can include advertising agencies, hospitals, non-profit organizations, religious associations, and publishing companies to name a few.

Job Titles:

• Author
• Consultant
• Counselor
• Denominational Executive
• Campus Religious Coordinator
• Church Building Engineer
• Church Camp Director
• Religious Bookstore Worker
• Religious Educational Administrator
• Clergy

What are some entry-level jobs held by UW – Eau Claire Religious Studies graduates?

• Personal Care Giver , Community Health Partnership, San Jose, CA
• Volunteer Coordinator , Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity, Tacoma, WA
• Activities Assistant , Heritage Nursing Center, Sheboygan, WI
• Campus Minister , The Navigators, Colorado Springs, CO
• Director of Youth Ministry , St. Louis Parish, Paynesville, MN

How can I learn more about Religious Studies?

Department

• Contact someone in UW – Eau Claire’s Dept. of Philosophy & Religious Studies
• Hibbard Humanities Hall 632, 836-2545

Career Services:

• Meet with a career counselor
• Take interest inventories and self-assessment tests
• Ask An Alum & Friends, a database of UW – Eau Claire Alumni & Friends available for informational interviewing

Career Discovery Center :

• Careers for Scholars and Other Deep Thinkers, Blythe Camenson
• Real People Working in the Helping Professions, Blythe Camenson
• Careers for Good Samaritans & Other Humanitarian Types, Marjorie Eberts and Margaret Gisler
• Careers in Community Development, Paul C. Brophy and Alice Shabecoff
• Opportunities in Religious Service Careers , John Oliver Nelson
• Careers for Caring People & Other Sensitive Types , Adrian Paradis

Internet:

• American Academy of Religion
• Idealist Org
• The Social Service Job Site
• Human Services Career Network

What are some opportunities for experiential learning in Religious Studies?

Internship

Internships are a way to gain hands-on experience in a position that interests you as a potential career. To find an internship in Religious Studies that suites your interests, visit Career Services (Schofield 230) and speak with a Career Associate about the many available internships. Contact your advisor or the Religious Studies department chair about enrolling in RELS 498 to obtain academic credit for your internship.

Directed Studies or Independent Study Class

By participating in an Independent or Directed Studies course, students will be able to research an area that they find particularly interesting. Contact your advisor about enrolling in RELS 395, 399 or 499.

Prism

Prism is a student journal published by the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies