Religion is a major source of inspiration, meaning, and controversy in human societies. Fast-moving forces of globalization, migration, and technology continue to bring diverse communities into closer proximity, often creating new religious communities in the process. The Religious Studies Program at Washington University gives students the opportunity to learn about diverse religions as well as to study past and current events with a critical but open mind. Religious Studies covers wide range subjects. It could include religion and American or international politics, religion and music, unbelief, religion and literature, issues of race or climate change, or scriptural studies. As such Religious Studies embraces research in all its disciplinary and interdisciplinary complexity. Courses offered by our program are thus taught by faculty in a variety of disciplines and areas, including The Danforth Center on Religion and Politics, Anthropology, Classics, East Asian Languages and Cultures, English, History, Jewish, Islamic, and Middle Eastern Studies, Music, and Political Science. A major in Religious Studies will help you understand and appreciate the complex ways in which religious traditions inform human thought and behavior. A double major or a minor will also enhance a broad range of studies from politics and law to business and medicine. So whether you are interested in preparing for the advanced academic study of religion, seeking to complement another area of study, or simply feel the need to acquire a greater knowledge of religions, a major or minor in Religious Studies is excellent preparation for living and working in a pluralistic society and global culture.