Bachelor's in Religious Studies

Colby College has evolved into a leading educational institution that combines a rich history with a forward-looking approach. The college's picturesque campus provides a vibrant and collaborative learning environment, fostering intellectual curiosity and creativity among its students. Colby's rigorous academic programs span a wide range of disciplines, emphasizing critical thinking, research, and a global perspective. The institution is dedicated to cultivating leaders who are not only well-versed in their respective fields but are also equipped with the skills and mindset to address complex challenges facing society. With a focus on experiential learning, including internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs, Colby ensures that students are prepared for success in a rapidly changing world. The college's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion adds a crucial dimension to its educational mission, creating a campus community that values different perspectives and backgrounds. Overall, Colby College stands as a beacon of academic distinction, preparing students to be thoughtful, engaged citizens and leaders in the global community.

Majors in the Religious Studies Department explore faith, spirituality, and history while examining the origins and development of the world’s major religious traditions—Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Shinto. Study these traditions by scrutinizing literature, ritual practices, and religion’s impact on cultural development. Courses are grouped to cover Eastern religions, Judaism and Islam, Christianity, and the Bible. All seniors produce an independent research project with a faculty mentor, and many majors choose to extend their investigations with a yearlong honors project. With small classes—seminars don’t exceed 15—and engaged students and professors, discussions are lively and thought provoking. The department offers a major and a minor in religious studies. As with all interdisciplinary programs, requirements are met by selecting elective courses in religious studies and related fields including anthropology, art, English, government, history, Jewish studies, music, philosophy, and sociology.

Colby College stands out as a premier liberal arts institution, celebrated not only for its academic rigor but for its commitment to fostering a strong sense of community and global citizenship. At the heart of Colby's identity is a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that encourages intellectual exploration and personal growth. Rooted in a rich history, Colby has seamlessly blended tradition with a progressive vision, placing emphasis on innovative teaching methods and cutting-edge research opportunities. With a faculty dedicated to mentorship and a student body engaged in diverse extracurricular activities, Colby thrives as a place where students not only gain knowledge but also develop the skills and perspectives needed to make a meaningful impact in the world.