Religion is an inherent part of the heritage of humankind and continues to play a very significant role in all societies. The Department of Religion Studies focuses on diverse religions including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, African and Eastern religions. All of these faith traditions have for millennia, in their own unique way articulated the human search for meaning and continue to do so. In order to fully appreciate the rich diversity of people’s religious expressions and to find out what the sense of such expressions is for our contemporary societies, we at UJ embrace the study of religion through scientific approaches and in an unbiased manner.
Religion | |
| Why study Religion? | Religiosity is one of the ways since the dawn of humankind and globally today, that humans express their ongoing quest for meaning. It is therefore understandable that it just won't go away, despite predictions of the opposite. Different religious traditions have different ways (belief and ethical systems) of concretizing a meaningful life, and therefore it is imperative to become religiously literate. Religious literacy not only enhances respect/tolerance for the other but allows for enrichment of the own through the other. The multi-cultural and multi-religious character of South Africa notably beseeches the study of Religion. |
Possible Careers include: | The study of Religion offers direct career paths to spiritual/ religious leaders of different religions. Religious literacy becomes indispensable to those following careers in psychology, social work, sociology/anthropology, communication, journalism, politics, human resource officials, cultural facilitators, teachers and for those pursuing an academic career in theology/science of religion and the humaniora in general. Whatever career one follows, knowledge of religion (-s) is necessary to also add deep-seated meaning and skills to one's vocational life. |
| Majors and elective modules to combine with your major include: | Anthropology; Developmental Studies; History; Modern Greek; Philosophy; Politics; Public Management & Governance; Psychology; Sociology. |
What can you learn from Religion Studies?
Religion has a global impact on societies. Therefore, Religion Studies equips you to address questions central to the human search for meaning. One can hardly hope to fully understand world history and literature or current events like the presidential elections, or current issues like climate change, sustainable development, increasing poverty and inequality, rights violations and the struggle to build sustainable peace in and around the world without knowledge of religion. The study of religion thus forms an integral aspect of a well-informed student of the Humanities. Religion Studies prepare students for a life in a pluralistic society and global culture and by studying religion a person can also enhance excellence in the study of other disciplines, such as law, education, history, literature, politics, medicine, and business.
What many may not know about Religion Studies
Religion Studies use historical, philosophical, political and sociological approaches in its study, and students in Religion Studies are expected to remain neutral about the question of the truth of religious beliefs. Currently, the job market is less interested in what one knows and more interested in how creative one is and what one can do with knowledge. Religion Studies not only provides students with a solid training for careers in religion but also equips them with a set of skills useful for critical thinking, abstract reasoning, and logical analysis that are relevant in various career options today.
Why would you choose to do Religion Studies?
Religiosity is one of the ways since the dawn of humankind and globally today, that humans express their ongoing quest for meaning. It is therefore understandable that it just won't go away, despite predictions of the opposite. Different religious traditions have different ways (belief and ethical systems) of concretizing a meaningful life, and therefore it is imperative to become religiously literate. Religious literacy not only enhances respect/tolerance for the other but allows for enrichment of the own through the other. The multi-cultural and multi-religious character of South Africa notably beseeches the study of Religion.
You will be able to solve problems and critically think about important and deep issues for you to make informed decisions. Moreover, our post-graduate studies give you the opportunity to choose a research topic of your interest that matches your future career. After a postgraduate degree in Religion Studies, the acquired research and thinking skills can be a great asset to the job market.
Majors and elective modules to combine with Religion as major include
Anthropology; Development Studies; History; Modern Greek; Philosophy; Politics and International Relations; Public Management and Governance; Psychology and/or Sociology
Possible careers
The study of Religion offers direct career paths to spiritual/ religious leaders of different religions. Religious literacy becomes indispensable to those following careers in psychology, social work, sociology/anthropology, communication, journalism, politics, human resource officials, cultural facilitators, teachers and those pursuing an academic career in theology/science of religion and the humaniora in general. Whatever career one follows, knowledge of religion (-s) is necessary to also add deep-seated meaning and skills to one's vocational life
Can international students be interested in Religion Studies?
There are many reasons to study Religion Studies as an international student. While exploring another part of the world you learn much from students and lecturers who have different experiences.
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