Religious Studies
Taking full advantage of Stonehill’s diverse liberal arts offerings, the Religious Studies major is an interdisciplinary program that embraces virtually all aspects of human experience as expressed in ethics, history, art, literature, social organization, politics and scientific exploration.
Program Overview
In the Catholic tradition of the quest for greater understanding, the Religious Studies major, part of the Religious Studies & Theology Department, helps students develop critical appreciation of their own traditions and those of others.
Programs of Study
The Religious Studies major at Stonehill is an interdisciplinary program that embraces virtually all aspects of the human experience as expressed in history, art, literature, social organization, politics, scientific exploration and ethics.
The Theology major at Stonehill fosters interdisciplinary study, allowing students to explore topics including the church, scripture, ethics and worship as well as their intersection with contemporary life.
Exploring Religion’s Role in Society
Stonehill College introduces students to the study of religion through a first-year course required as part of the College’s General Education Program. Students pursuing any major may also explore specific topics in the study of religion in a variety of Learning Communities and moral inquiry courses.
Majors and minors in religious studies rigorously dissect an array of compelling human questions, the distinctive beliefs and practices of religious people across cultures, and the various roles that religions play in society.
As they advance through the program, majors will select courses and a senior thesis topic that accord closely with their specific interests in Religious Studies, such as:
- Ancient religions
- Biblical studies
- Religion in the modern world
- Religion and gender
- Comparative religious ethics
Recent Accolades
Organizations involved in assessing U.S. colleges and universities continually cite Stonehill as being among the best in the nation when it comes to value, outcomes and a commitment to making the world a better place. See full list of accolades.
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U.S. News Ranks Stonehill in the Top 5% Nationally
After assessing U.S. colleges and universities based on 17 measures of academic quality and graduate outcomes, U.S. News & World Report ranked Stonehill No. 73 in the Best Value category out of 1,500 colleges, while also moving up to No. 83 among National Liberal Arts Colleges.
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Wall Street Journal 2025 Rankings Place Stonehill Among Best Colleges in U.S.
Stonehill College has been recognized again this year by The Wall Street Journal for the value it provides students, especially in the areas of career preparation and character development.
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Money Ranks Stonehill Among Best U.S. Colleges in 2024
Money’s 2024 Best U.S. Colleges research shows Stonehill among top 10% nationwide.
Sample Religious Studies Courses
Sacraments, Justice and the Moral Life
Hard Rockin’ Jews: Judaism and Pop Culture in Israel
Approaches to the Study of Religious Traditions
Where Our Religious Studies Graduates Work
Stonehill religious studies graduates go on to work at a range of notable organizations. Continue exploring where our graduates work.
Partnerships & Special Programs
Save Money: Earn Two Degrees in as Little as Four Years
Learn More About Our Religious Studies Program
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Religious Studies Society
The Religious Studies Society, a student-led group, gathers to discuss all manner of religious topics. The society organizes trips to contemplative places of worship, holds on-campus events for students, and promotes a general discussion of religion and spirituality within the Stonehill community.
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Internships & Opportunities
The Religious Studies program offers students opportunities for undergraduate research, study abroad, directed study and internships.
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Graduate Outcomes
Stonehill religious studies graduates go on to work at a range of notable organizations.