Bachelor of Arts and Science - Religious Studies & Kinesiology (Optional Co-op)

For the Bachelor of Arts and Science, students must complete two majors: an Arts major, and a Science major.

Religious Studies: People encounter religion in many manifestations frequently on TV and the Internet: breathtaking mosques, colossal Buddhas, the Pope addressing huge crowds, brutal religious wars or unusual rituals.

Studying religion enhances the understanding of what it is to be human. It enables us to learn more about the diverse cultures of the world, their ancient histories and their highest values. While students may not discover the meaning of life by studying religion, they will learn how others have answered that perennial human question, and how those answers have shaped people’s lives and the lives of those around them.

The University of Lethbridge is a secular (non-religious) institution of learning; the University does not try to promote belief in any of the religions that are studied. Rather, the program attempts to study religion in as objective a manner as possible. Of course, each person faces challenges when trying to do so with neutrality, because people may have predispositions for or against particular religions, or toward religion in general.

In religious studies, the explorations are wide-ranging, embracing the human religious response, from the great world religions to marginal and quasi-religious phenomena, such as shamanism and magic. The program examines history, social and cultural configurations, symbolism, and literature, as well as theologies and metaphysical philosophies within belief systems. Students will study shared themes and marked differences in myths and rituals, and how religion permeates even secular lives.

Kinesiology: Kinesiology is the study of human movement through physical activity and the critical role it plays from both an individual and cultural perspective. It also helps in understanding the mechanics of human motion.

The programs are designed to provide students with the opportunity to study the theoretical and practical applications of activity as a cultural form, as well as individual performance at all levels of involvement and all ages.

Students will also gain an understanding of movement through the integration of specialized knowledge found in topics like anatomy, biomechanics, culture, exercise physiology, leadership, media, motor control, race and ethnicity.

Students will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, as well as the 1st Choice Savings Centre for Sport and Wellness, with its indoor track, pool and climbing wall.

BA vs. BSc: Students completing the Bachelor of Arts program explore sport and physical activity involvement from a socio-cultural, wellness and participatory perspective, while students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science program study these concepts from a human performance perspective.