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"The phenomenon of religion is a universal dimension of human life and culture."
Religious Studies
How has religion shaped human history and culture? The religious studies curriculum challenges you to inquire and understand through an exploration of the world's many religious traditions, past and present.
A powerful force: From ancient history to today's headlines, religion has operated as a powerful force in human society. Courses within the religious studies curriculum examine the world's major religious traditions while also exploring special topics such as women and religion, religions and the natural environment, and literature and religion. Internships and independent study options are available within the program, and all religious studies majors complete a capstone project.
Liberal arts perspective: A religious studies major or religious studies minor complements many other areas of study, broadening perspectives on everything from literature to science to art history to contemporary politics. Bailey Scholar and religious studies major Joe Varner '11 chose to pursue minors in music and ethics, intrigued by the opportunity to explore and understand the place of religion and faith in human culture. "That's the beauty," he says, "of a liberal arts education."
The A. Purnell Bailey Pre-Ministerial Program for Ordained Ministry: The Bailey Scholars program provides support—through financial assistance, mentoring and internships—for students interested in pursuing a calling to ordained ministry.
Beyond R-MC: R-MC has a long tradition of graduates entering ordained ministry, and you will find among alumni a number of former students following a calling to ministry. Recent graduates of R-MC's religious studies program also are pursuing graduate studies at schools including Duke, Princeton, Emory and American University, as well as careers in fields such as business, higher education, music and finance.
| "I grew fond of the college very quickly."
Joe Varner, a Farmville, Virginia native was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order, Habitat for Humanity and the United Methodist Student Fellowship group. And that's just the beginning. Varner, a religious studies major with minors in music and ethics, was drawn to R-MC for its religious studies program and close-knit atmosphere. He also helped first year students overcome the anxieties of their new transition by acting as an orientation leader. In 2010, Varner and his classmates, along with Chaplain Darrell Headrick and Senior Associate Dean of Students Kathryn Hull, visited Venice, Florence, Assisi and Rome. 2010 was a stellar year for Varner, who received the Pepper and Stuart Laughon Commitment to Community Award, which is given to a student who has made significant contributions to enrich the lives of others. He was also awarded the Man of Vision Award, which honors students who contribute to advancing healthy, respectful relationships between men and women on campus, and who demonstrate leadership, vitality and integrity.
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