Program Summary
Religious and cultural studies is an academic course that explores the beliefs, practices, values, and institutions of various religious traditions and cultural systems around the world. It involves the critical and comparative study of religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and indigenous beliefs, among others. The course also examines how religion interacts with other aspects of culture, including politics, art, history, literature, and social structures. Students are encouraged to develop a nuanced understanding of religious diversity and the role religion plays in shaping identities, worldviews, and global events. By engaging with texts, rituals, philosophies, and ethical systems, the course fosters analytical thinking, cultural awareness, and respect for pluralism. It prepares students for careers in education, public service, international relations, journalism, and various fields that require intercultural communication and ethical sensitivity.