Religious Studies

Why choose religious studies at North Central College?

You’ll better understand your neighbors—whether they live next door or around the world—so you’ll be better prepared to teach, serve others, minister in your faith tradition or pursue any other vocation you choose. In North Central’s religious studies major you’ll examine the world’s major religions and consider their global influence. Your exploration of some of life’s most challenging questions will lead you to the fields of philosophy, history, psychology, sociology, ethics and ministry.

You may also:

Analyze sacred texts and secondary sources.
Hear guest practitioners discuss their religious traditions.
Conduct research in areas that interest you.
Become involved with The Union, a weekly event that incorporates music, art and film into spirituality.

Perry Hamalis, Cecelia Schneller Mueller Professor of Religion

Hamalis publishes article on ethics in nine-volume reference

Perry Hamalis, North Central College Cecelia Schneller Mueller Professor of Religion, published an article in the International Encyclopedia of Ethics.

Students learn how to advocate issues with legislators

North Central College students attend ecumenical advocacy conference, speak with congressional staff in nation’s capital about issues important to them.

Civil rights panel on April 5 opens Student Leadership Conference

North Central College presents panelists who reminisce about historic, personal events in 1963 during the modern civil rights movement.

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Internships

Assistant program director, Mountain Tennessee Outreach Project, Coalmont, TN
Intern, Junior/Senior Scholars, Naperville
Intern, Humanitarian Service Project, Carol Stream, IL

Graduate School

Recent graduates in religious studies have been accepted at:

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
Chicago Theological Seminary
Vanderbilt University
DePaul University
Illinois State University

Careers

Recent graduates in religious studies include:

Youth support worker, Geneva Foundation
Minister of discipleship, First United Methodist Church of Waukesha
Coordinator of college-age ministry, Calvary Church
Associate pastor and ordained elder, Glenview United Methodist Church
Associate pastor of congregational care, Brentwood United Methodist Church
Pastor, Roselle United Methodist Church

Lauren Wallem

Religious Studies major

As a religious studies major, “You think deeply about some really big issues of life, faith and worldview. I can think of no better place to do that than at North Central College,” says Lauren. “Even if you don’t have a religious tradition, the knowledge gained in this field is so diverse that the possibilities for its application are endless.”

A standout in academics and service, Lauren was chosen as Outstanding Major in Religious Studies, conducted research about the Native American nations and presented her findings at Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research. She was involved with a music worship group performing at the College’s weekly Focus services, served as co-president of the United Methodist...

Luke Kinney

Religious Studies and English Studies double major

“North Central stands out because the professors come from all different faith backgrounds and it doesn’t affect how they conduct their classes. They challenge students in all areas in a good way.”

Luke hadn’t planned on adding religious studies as a second major, but the classes and faculty interaction reminded him how much he enjoyed studying religions. In fact, his studies strengthened his own Christian faith and redirected his future. He plans to serve in campus ministry and attend seminary.

“For an independent study, my professor challenged me to go deeper than I normally do and asked me probing questions. I was able to write a good paper and present it at two conferences.”

It hasn’t...

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