Bachelor of Arts and Science - Religious Studies & Psychology (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.

Psychology

Psychology delves into what makes people tick. Psychologists study the relationship between mind and behaviour by investigating the nature of thought processes and behaviors in humans and other animals.

Psychologists also study the evolutionary, social and cultural factors affecting the development of human thoughts and behaviors, focusing on topics that have a direct bearing on people's day-to-day experience.

A major in Psychology will help students develop skills in analyzing and interpreting complex material, particularly as it relates to behaviour. Students will learn theories of how people interpret the world and act in it, as well as theories of human behaviour.

Psychology students will learn from those at the forefront of psychological research. The faculty members are regularly published in the top journals and make an ongoing contribution to an ever-advancing field.