As of July 1, 2009, this program moved to the new Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS). Please go to the current LA&PS programs page for the most up-to-date information on this program.

Description:

Atkinson’s Religious Studies program offers you the opportunity to explore the western religious heritage of Judaism and Christianity from secular, historical, cultural, archeological and literary perspectives. Through a variety of important texts -- including the recently discovered Dead Sea Scrolls, the Gnostic Writings and works from Apocrypha, and Pseudepigrapha literature -- you will deepen your understanding of the historical and cultural foundations of religion and contemporary religious practice. You can even participate in a guided tour of sites in Israel and Egypt as part of the program. Religious Studies Website contains: religious studies brochure, list of core courses, course descriptions, course equivalents, frequently asked questions, pictures, and more. Coordinators: Prof. Joan Gibson (July 2005) jgibson@yorku.ca

Why Choose Our Program?

You can help solve puzzles of the past while contributing significantly to contemporary scholarship. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the world and the way in which it has been shaped, and continues to be shaped, by religion. “Religious Studies deals with the core of any community; its ethnic, religious, political and economic make up, its history, values, ethics, laws, and its interaction with other communities. This is very relevant today, given the religious tensions worldwide, the continued marginalization of females in many countries, the rise of sectarianism, fanaticism, the ‘othering’ of different cultures, etc. One gets a better perspective of the underlying religious tensions in society and in the global community.” - Jonathan von Kodar, alumnus “Atkinson caters to the needs of mature students. The flexibility of its schedule and course offerings allowed me to pursue my goal of obtaining a degree while balancing work and family commitments. Atkinson is top-notch and delivers a quality of instruction and education that is second to none.” - Daraius Bharucha, alumnus

Fast Fact:

You'll examine some of the great riddles and questions that face us as individuals and as a society, including death, suffering, tragedy, and the nature of the self and the universe.

Careers:

Educator, Researcher, Historian, Clergy or Chaplain, Program Counselor or Administrator.

Calendar Information (contains course descriptions, program requirements, university policies, and academic regulations)

Study Plan(s) (lists degree and certificate program-specific requirements and courses)

Related Atkinson Program(s):

BA, Humanities Certificate, Biblical Studies