Student Resources & Undergraduate Program

The study of religion at OU is not intended to promote or critique any particular religious faith, nor does it seek to encourage or discourage religious practice or expression. More broadly, by providing a greater understanding of religion in its pluralistic expressions the department will promote a more informed citizenry. The relationship of religion to other societal, cultural, and political activity means that the study of religion informs the understanding of all human activity. The Department of Religious Studies works closely with the university's International Programs office and the College of International and Area Studies to identify and/or coordinate study abroad experiences for our students.

The curriculum involves a two-pronged academic exploration of 1) different religious traditions (e.g., Native American, African, and other indigenous traditions, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Baha'i, etc.); and 2) different approaches to the study of religion (historical, social, political, intellectual, philosophical, scientific, literary). This will prepare future journalists, teachers, lawyers, doctors, and business leaders to operate in the complex religious milieu of the coming decades. Within the Department, students complete RELS 1113 Introduction to Religious Studies, RELS 2653 Approaches to the Study of Religion (a course in theories and methods), and choose three religious traditions from three distinct cultures, as well as elective courses in religion and literature/the arts, religion, and social organization/politics, religion and history, and religion and philosophy. Travel abroad is also available to meet the requirements of the elective category. Students use their electives to craft a concentration or specialization in preparation for graduate or professional schools.  Specializations in either the major OR minor are available in Islamic Studies, Asian Studies, Judaic Studies, African and African-American Studies, Biblical Literature, or Christian Studies.  Students complete the Capstone course their senior year, to bring together the theories, research methods, and approaches the students have acquired through the student's course of study.

The Department of Religious Studies is excited to announce that we will again offer student sponsorships to attend the American Academy of Religion's annual meeting to be held in San Antonio this year. The Annual Meeting takes place in November each year. Students who attend will be able to experience everything the meeting has to offer, including attending academic sessions, receptions and tours. A limited number of sponsorships are available to current RELS students.

Students may apply here: AAR Student Funding Application.

Applications will be due at the beginning of September.

All interested OU students are encouraged to apply. The selected students will receive full funding to attend. Priority will be given to applications from majors and minors, but non-majors and minors will still be considered. Thank you to Revs. Boyd and Angus for creating such an amazing opportunity for our students!

We strongly encourage our students to start thinking about life after graduation as soon as possible.  Visit our Careers in RELS & Alumni Stories page for inspiration and guidance from our RELS alumni.

Many of our alumni have generously offered to mentor our current students in their chosen fields.  If you would like to reach out to an alumni mentor, please contact our Administrative/Financial Coordinator Rebecca Hall-Davis.

Also, be sure to utilize the resources of the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences Student Success Center.

Religious Studies encourages students to study abroad.  The Education Abroad office, housed in the College of International and Area Studies, sponsors a variety of student abroad opportunities. 

To learn about the exciting education abroad opportunities OU offers, visit the College of International Studies Education Abroad office.

Where can I get more information? 
The Education Abroad office has a number of professional staff advisors to assist you.  For the impact and the value of study abroad in your major and degree, and to coordinate possible course offerings, contact our advisor, Jennie Lazar.