Bachelor of Arts - Religion

Students who enroll in Religion courses at Brandon University may expect an interactive and exciting classroom experience, in which participation and discussion are strongly encouraged. Assignments develop skills in research, critical analysis, creative problem-solving, and presentation to an audience.

Students are offered a wide range of courses that will introduce them to the academic study of religion in all its manifestations, from its prehistoric beginnings to its contemporary expressions. They will be given the opportunity to study the sacred scriptures of both Eastern and Western religions, as well as the religious beliefs and practices of traditional tribal groups. They will also be encouraged to examine the influence of religion on culture, selfhood, human rights, the environment, sexuality, and many other aspects of society. In addition, there are specific courses on the role of women in various religions and on ethical decision-making, both within the different religions and within a medical context. Students may also sign up for year-long courses that will introduce them to some of the original languages in which ancient religious texts were written. Biblical Hebrew, Hellenistic Greek and Classical Chinese are all taught on a cyclical basis. The goal of the Department of Religion is to get students to look objectively and sympathetically at religious traditions and to gain insights into the function and structure of religions, as well as the significant roles that religious traditions play both in history and modern global society.