Description

Religion is an inter-disciplinary field with its foundation in the humanities. The study of religion helps develop such essential skills as critical thinking, analytical writing, public speaking, and cross-cultural communication. BSC offers the first two years of coursework toward a baccalaureate degree in a religious studies specialty. Instruction is designed to provide a base of general education, social science and communication classes, along with introductory courses in religion. Students study World Religions, Religion in America, Old and New Testament, Life and Letters of Paul, Philosophy, Ethics, and Western Civilization.

Preparation

Those pursuing a religion major should be interested in history and philosophical and religious ideas through time. The need for clear expression requires good communication skills. Background in the social sciences is helpful.

Requirements

Students completing the suggested curriculum earn an Associate in Arts degree.

Bismarck State College has many cooperative, articulation, or transfer agreements with postsecondary institutions both inside and outside of the North Dakota University System. Some of these agreements are established to allow students to remain on campus as they complete their bachelor’s degree. In all cases, students seeking to transfer after completing a degree at BSC should consult the academic catalog of their destination college and work with their academic advisor to plan for this transition.

Career Opportunities

The degree is well suited for students seeking a broad-based liberal arts degree or a general education. A religion major provides an excellent preparation for graduate school in the humanities, as well as any field that requires critical and constructive thinking. Students can pursue seminary and divinity school and are well prepared for careers in law, medicine, business, public and political service, education, journalism, counseling and social work.