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Religion

What will I learn?

After completing courses in Religion, you will be able to:

  • define, analyze, compare, and interact with the beliefs and practices of major world religions in their cultural settings and contemporary contexts
  • articulate and intelligently discuss the historical and contemporary interaction between religion and American Society, including political and cultural issues
  • distinguish between the Bible’s different literary genres, appreciate the compositional styles and techniques of its authors, and understand the Bible’s development and content
  • demonstrate an understanding of the definitions, theories, typical practices and beliefs of religion; the relationship of religion to culture, society, art, and ethics; and the various responses of religion to modern and post modern culture
  • critically evaluate magic, religion, and science in the context of world views; identify the major possible relationships between religion and science; and engage contemporary cultural issues pertaining to magic, miracles, religion and science

What is the occupational outlook?

Religious studies can lead to entering seminary to become a member of the clergy. Lay leadership positions include program leaders, youth directors, and religious education directors. Advanced study can lead to theology and the teaching of a specialized area at a seminary.

Positions in the clergy are predicted to increase as fast as the average for all occupations until 2014.1

What are my options?

You can earn credits in Religion at HCC to transfer to a four year school toward a Religion major.

You can take various kinds of Religion courses at HCC to explore the field and consider which area of Religion and related fields interests you the most: world religions, biblical studies, religion and culture, and general religious studies.

You can take Religion courses simply to develop your understanding and appreciation for religion, to better understand other people's beliefs and world cultures, and to study contemporary issues pertaining to religion.


  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, Clergy, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/oco20052.htm (visited July 9, 2007)