Faculty of Arts & Science
Religious Studies

Religious Studies is the study of religion, as understood in its broadest sense.

Religion has been around since before the dawn of history, and has shaped every human society and culture from time immemorial - for better and for worse. 

For many, religion shapes the very essence of what it means to be human, it takes on a dazzling array of forms and can impact virtually all aspects of a person's life. Religious Studies examines human response to life’s biggest questions.

Every religious tradition answers questions about spirituality and meaning in a different way, setting out moral values and ethical guidelines for its followers.

Religious Studies aims to enhance critical understanding of the phenomenon of religion and the diversity of religious experience and expression from antiquity to the present in both Eastern and Western traditions.

Fundamental issues such as belief, texts, worship, ritual, concepts of the divine, the human condition, and the historical development of particular religions are examined. The academic study of religion requires a measure of neutrality and distance, whereby all religious traditions are treated with similar respect and critical inquiry.

Check out the new minor in Religious Studies.

Our Religious Studies Department currently hosts the best undergraduate student conference in Canada with over 50 presenters throughout Canada and beyond. Check out conference details.

Learn more about our Religious Studies degree program.