Religion Studies

Why religion studies matters:

Religion shapes cultures, communities, and individual lives in profound ways. In Muhlenberg’s religion studies program, students investigate religious traditions through an academic lens — examining their myths, symbols, rituals, and philosophies from a position of open inquiry rather than religious instruction. This approach fosters an understanding of religion’s role in history, politics, art, and daily life, encouraging students to think critically about how beliefs influence societies and human interactions.

How religion studies is taught at Muhlenberg:

By engaging with diverse traditions from around the globe, students build skills in close reading, analytical writing, and insightful discussion — capacities central to a liberal arts education and vital for responsible participation in a diverse world. Faculty mentors guide students in exploring complex questions of meaning, morality, and human connection, equipping graduates for careers in education, public service, law, nonprofit leadership, and other fields that benefit from cultural literacy and critical thinking.