Religion
About the Program
The Religion major is predicated on the belief that life and society are made better and that individual happiness and national character are enhanced by the time-proven values that characterize the great religious teachings of the world. A student majoring in Religion learns to read texts (both ancient and modern) carefully; studies the oral tradition, stories, rituals, and structures of religious communities; explores the beliefs and values of different religious traditions; and develops a critical sensitivity to the diverse cultural expressions of both Christian and non-Christian religions.
Many graduates work in churches or continue their education in seminary. The Religion major with an emphasis in Christian Ministry allows students to tailor their education for their ministerial calling. A Religion major or minor also serves as an excellent preparation for other graduate programs or careers because of the emphasis in reading, writing, analyzing, and speaking.
See E-term World Religions Course Highlights from London
Coursework in Religion
The curriculum incorporates a variety of topics to prepare students for opportunities in the field of Religion, and includes courses such as:
- Literature of the Bible
- World Religions
- History of Christian Thought
- Biblical Archaeology
- Life & Letters of Paul
- Religion in Film
- The Search for Values
- Studies in the Gospels
- Christian Theology
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Related clubs
There are over 50 clubs and organizations available to students at Ferrum College. Some specifically related to Religion:
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes
- Catholic Campus Ministry
- Ferrum Christian Fellowship
- Young Methodist Women
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Experiential & hands-on learning opportunities
Mission Work: Students are strongly urged to explore their vocational calling through mission trips and summer jobs. Through the Christian Ministries Initiative, Ferrum College religion majors in recent years have served in churches and camps while studying at Ferrum. Additionally, the program has sponsored study tours in recent years to places like Israel and Rome.
Internships: Students are strongly urged to explore career opportunities and to establish mentors through an internship. A ministerial practicum course gives students an opportunity for practical experiences of ministry.
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What could I be with a major in Religion?
A major in Religion leads to traditional career paths, as well as less expected fields. For example:
- You could be a(n) ...
- Missionary
- Clergy
- Campus Minister
- Peace Corps Member
- Guidance Counselor
- Nursing Home Director
- Fundraiser/Developer
- Community Service Agency worker
- Writer/Author
- Hospice Director
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Recent Religion program graduates and their careers
Recent Ferrum graduates credit their program of study for landing jobs in their fields.
Eric Anderson ’00, Director of Programs at Redwood United Methodist Church.
Betty Marshall ’00, United Methodist minister, graduate of Duke Divinity School.
Jason Bryant ’03, United Methodist Minister, graduate student at Duke Divinity School.
Thomas James ’06, Campus Ministry Intern at Ferrum College, graduate student at Wesley Theological Seminary.
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Religion Faculty
David B. Howell
Associate Professor of Religion
D.Phil., University of Oxford
(540) 365-4329
dhowell@ferrum.edu | View Profile
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Faculty & Staff:
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Information is only an email away! Contact Dr. Howell at dhowell@ferrum.edu.
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Photos from 2002 Religion Study Abroad Course in Rome
Campus Ministries
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