Welcome to Religious Studies

For more than 50 years, the University of Waterloo has offered courses in religious studies. Religious Studies is a flexible program that offers several plans for undergraduate students and includes a wide range of courses. Students are able to specialize in three main areas: World Religions; Christian Traditions; and Religion, Culture, and Society. Religious Studies is also a great complement to other programs where students can pursue a joint honours degree or a minor.

Our faculty have varied research interests and also contribute to other university departments and programs, including: Sociology, Anthropology, Jewish Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, Social Development Studies, Gender and Social Justice, Fine ArtsandGraduate Theological Studies.

Our department enjoys the diverse resources of St. Jerome’s UniversityConrad Grebel University College, UnitedCollegeRenison University Collegeand theFaculty of Arts.

The Department of Religious Studies at the University of Waterloo in partnership with the Religion and Culture Department at Wilfrid Laurier University, offers a joint PhD in Religious Studies with a unique concentration on religious diversity of North America.

A group of undergrad students talking beneath the arches of the Dana Porter Library

Undergraduate studies

Learn more about program options and courses in Religious Studies.

Two graduate students work at a table in the Hagey Hub study room

Graduate studies

Discover the joint Laurier-Waterloo PhD in Religious Studies and areas of research.

The interior of a historic cathedral with a domed ceiling and dark wood trim

Why study religion?

See the benefits studying religion can have on your education and career.

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