Bachelor of Arts - Religious Studies

The two disciplines that have a home in this department, Philosophy & Religious Studies raise some of the most fundamental questions about our world and ourselves-questions about the nature of reality, knowledge, morality, God, and society. Students study the thinking of major scholars on such matters and learn to think critically and clearly on their own. Small classes cultivate student-faculty mentoring, research and learning. The faculty - professional philosophers and scholars of religion, authors and leaders in the field - work one-on-one with students, encouraging independent research and professional preparation. And the co-curricular activities and organizations build strong rapport and camaraderie between students, most notably by participation in dialogue. By fostering a love of learning, an appreciation of the value of critical and reflective thinking, and a collaborative intellectual community; Texas State University helps prepare students to become engaged, reflective citizens and lifelong learners while preparing them for graduate study or careers in government, law, the non-profit sector, business, or education. The Department of Philosophy serves Texas State University's majors and minors by providing an intensive and flexible course of study through which they rigorously engage in reflection and dialogue, logical analysis, conceptual interpretation, and develop and critique texts, arguments, and ideas. TXSU helps them develop a broad competence in critical thinking and analysis of arguments. Philosophy and Religious Studies students pursue the study and understanding of diverse positions and perspectives, and are encouraged to consider the relevance of their course of study for their post-graduate plans. Religion intersects with all areas of culture including politics, science, economics, and law. This intersection of religion and culture is reflected in a wide variety of careers found across the spectrum of cultural work, human services, education, and the arts, such as hospital chaplaincies, secondary education, legal support work, and journalism. Furthermore, the conditions of globalization mean that there will be increasing demand for job candidates who can negotiate culturally diverse work environments. Knowledge of the world's religions is needed in business, law, health, law enforcement, and politics both national and international. Religious literacy is essential to responsible citizenship, and increasingly demanded by employers.