Courses in the Program in Religion
The Program in Religion offers three core courses (RGST 200, RGST 300, RGST 400). Below you can find the general description of these courses, as well as other courses as they appear in the academic calendar. Use the menu on the left to find out how these courses will look in the upcoming year.
RGST 160: Introduction to Religions: Judaism, Christianity
An overview of the foundational texts, histories, and contemporary expressions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Key concepts and approaches used in the study of religion. Credit will be granted for only one of RGST 160, AMNE 160, or RELG 101.
Equivalency: AMNE 160.
RGST 200: Introduction to the Study of Religion
Study of religion through a comparative, cross-cultural, and interdisciplinary approach to humans’ engagement with the sacred. Examines religions as complex systems that share certain fundamental common features.
RGST 300: Theory and Method in the Study of Religion
Theories and methods for the critical study of religion as believed and practiced in different times and places. Explores methodologies for studying dimensions of religion such as space, bodily practices, cognition, and material culture. Prerequisite: RGST 200.
RGST 330: The Science of Religion
Explaining religious belief and practice using approaches and methodologies from evolutionary and cognitive science. Topics include gene-culture coevolution, ritual and supernatural belief, religion in groups, and digital humanities techniques.
RGST 400: Advanced Seminar in the Study of Religion
Seminar focused on a special theme in the interdisciplinary study of religion (e.g., religious violence, religion and the secular, religious space). Analysis of the theme’s contemporary manifestations and implications, through discussion of recent scholarship, both theoretical and case studies.
RGST 420: Religion in Canada
An examination of Canadian religious development with special reference to the separation of church and state, the rise of denominationalism and religious pluralism, secularization and ecumenicity, and the emergence of new religious movements.
RGST 480: Women and Religion
A study of the roles of women in the literature of one or more religious traditions.
RGST 499: Honours Thesis
Undergraduate thesis on a subject in the study of religion. Restricted to students admitted to the Honours Program in the Study of Religion.