Religious Studies Outcomes Assessment

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Upon the completion of all of the requirements for a degree in Religious Studies the graduating major should be able to demonstrate learning in four related areas:

A. Global Citizenship

  1. By explaining the various roles of religion in human societies;
  2. By being aware not only of the variety of the world’s religious traditions but also of the internal diversity within traditions;
  3. By recognizing the mutual influence of historical events and religious traditions on societies and cultures in different regions of the world.

B. Religious Literacy

  1. By giving evidence of knowledge of major historical developments, texts, and practices in these core areas:
    • Western Religious Traditions
    • Asian Religious Traditions
    • Religion in North America
    • Theory and Method in the Study of Religion;
  2. By demonstrating awareness of the complexity of beliefs, ethical positions, and communal structures of religions;
  3. By explaining and applying methodological approaches to the study of religion(s);
  4. By acquiring a foundation for further education at the graduate level in either Religious Studies or the interdisciplinary study of the humanities and Liberal Arts.

C. Critical Thinking

  1. By differentiating between academic and confessional (personal commitment) approaches to studying religions;
  2. By demonstrating objective inquiry of significant religious sources, including primary texts and communal practices;
  3. By distinguishing among facts, opinions, and inferences about religions;
  4. By analyzing arguments of Religious Studies scholars thoughtfully and critically with attention to the evidence they provide to support their positions.

D. Communication

  1. By expressing ideas and information related to the study of religion effectively, both orally and in writing;
  2. By being able to explain and appropriately apply academic and analytical terminology developed by the Religious Studies field.

Majors will demonstrate mastery of these outcomes in the required capstone course Relig 485, Theory and Method, by passing an exam in which they prove competency in each area.