Religious Studies
Minor (M)
Undergraduate Minor
Online • Low Residency • Online • 19 Credits
The religious studies minor offers an in-depth exploration of diverse religious traditions and their impact on cultures and societies.
Overview
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of the world's major religions, including their histories, beliefs, practices, and cultural significance. Students learn to critically analyze religious texts, understand the role of religion in contemporary issues, and appreciate the diversity of religious experiences, fostering a nuanced understanding of religion's role in shaping human experience and societal development.
The curriculum includes courses that cover essential topics like religion and society, sacred texts, and religion in America. These courses provide a solid foundation in religious studies, while electives like religion and politics and Eastern religions allow you to tailor the minor to your interests. The program also encourages interdisciplinary learning, with opportunities to connect religious studies with other fields such as history, anthropology, and philosophy.
The program's emphasis on critical thinking, cultural awareness, and interdisciplinary learning prepares you for careers in education, social services, international relations, and more. With a supportive academic environment and access to diverse resources, you are empowered to make significant contributions to communities and the broader world.
School of Interdisciplinary Studies
Religious Studies
gvsu.edu/rel
117 Lake Ontario Hall
(616) 331-8110
[email protected]
Admissions and Recruitment Office
Career Opportunities
Coordinate or design programs and conduct outreach to promote the religious education or activities of a denominational group. May provide counseling, guidance, and leadership relative to marital, health, financial, and religious problems.
Top skills- Speaking
- Social Perceptiveness
- Active Listening
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 30,227.04 | 10% |
| $ 36,571.34 | 25% |
| $ 43,294.85 | 50% |
| $ 57,277.80 | 75% |
| $ 72,465.84 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.
Top skills- Social Perceptiveness
- Service Orientation
- Management of Personnel Resources
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 49,976.69 | 10% |
| $ 63,267.73 | 25% |
| $ 81,155.08 | 50% |
| $ 96,542.71 | 75% |
| $119,915.05 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client.
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 75,676.08 | 10% |
| $ 91,009.38 | 25% |
| $114,354.20 | 50% |
| $159,180.87 | 75% |
| $196,247.54 | 90% |
Promote or create an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media. May specialize in using social media.
Top skills- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Social Perceptiveness
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 36,768.16 | 10% |
| $ 45,978.79 | 25% |
| $ 61,159.97 | 50% |
| $ 83,095.64 | 75% |
| $112,557.80 | 90% |
Teach courses in philosophy, religion, and theology. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Instructing
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 46,406.69 | 10% |
| $ 60,100.88 | 25% |
| $ 85,823.68 | 50% |
| $123,123.26 | 75% |
| $166,433.09 | 90% |
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Scholarships
Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based
scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are
available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.
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with GVSU scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities.
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to scholarships for which you might qualify.
Student Organizations
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Career Advising
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