Department of Religious Studies

The study of religion provides insight into the fascinating variety of ways in which people live their lives in light of the sacred. How do they understand the existence of God or gods? Where do they seek answers to questions of fundamental concern? How do they find meaning and purpose in life?

Why Religious Studies?

Religious Studies can take you from exploring global cultures to gaining a deeper understanding of religious traditions in our increasingly complex society. Here are just 10 reasons to major in Religious Studies. »

With an emphasis on critical and careful thinking, honest analysis, and an openness to learning about new ideas, Religious Studies is a dynamic and necessarily multidisciplinary field involving ideas and methods drawn from philosophy, anthropology, history, art, literature, sociology and theology, among other fields.

It is also of critical importance in understanding a range of complex social issues spanning nearly every aspect of life, including politics, ethnicity, economics, public policy and family life.

Public Events

Events and speakers, at the University, around the city, and in the state, which relate to the study of human religious expression are of interest to our students, faculty, and the public. The study of religion intersects with history, philosophy, art, music, film, literature and joins these in ongoing public conversations.

Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies

We offer students the opportunity to major or minor in religious studies. We also offer an intensive major for those students who wish to add a research component to the major.

Mungo Pre-Seminary Scholarship

Are you a USC undergrad planning to attend advanced religious education or a seminary of any faith? The Mungo Scholarship offers significant tuition support—open to South Carolina residents with a preference for Religious Studies majors.

Apply now

Religious Studies Beyond the Classroom

We offer two annual lecture series as well as numerous talks by distinguished and compelling speakers. We hope these lectures inspire dialogue among students and faculty from our department as well as from other departments and colleges on campus, and the wider community.

Our People:

Learn more about the department faculty and staff, and find contact information for the Chair, the Director of Undergraduate Studies, the Office Manager, the Academic Advisor, and other faculty and staff.

We Are Curious

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.