Religious Studies | College of Liberal Arts
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Undergraduate Studies

The Religious Studies Department at the University of Texas cultivates future professionals and scholars that recognize religion’s importance in society and culture—both in the past and the present. Religious Studies courses encompass various approaches to the study of religion: they explore ritual and textual traditions, consider the early formation of religions, and investigate the interaction of religious beliefs and practices with political, social, cultural, and economic developments. Because of the field’s inherently interdisciplinary qualities, our students have unique access to world-renowned experts within our core faculty as well as across the university and beyond.

Whether they focus on contemporary forms of religiosity or on a forgotten religion of the ancient world, our students develop a skillset that serves them well in any career that values critical thinking, an ability to communicate clearly, and a sensitive awareness to cultural variation. Since the inception of the Religious Studies major at the University in the Fall of 2000, students have obtained careers in public health, medicine, law, government, ministry, finance, the Peace Corps, and Teach for America. Others have been accepted into graduate programs, including those at Yale, Harvard, Princeton, Emory, the University of Chicago, and Columbia.

COLA Dean's Distinguished Graduates

The College of Liberal Arts instituted this award in 1980 to recognize graduating Liberal Arts students who have distinguished themselves in the areas of scholarship, leadership, and service to the College and University community. It is the highest award the College offers and truly reflective of the remarkable caliber of liberal arts graduates. 

Religious Studies Award Recipients:
2021: Donatus Nnani
2020: Nishita Pondugula

Religious Studies Honorable Mentions:
2024: Emily Lawitz
2023: Mary "Mae" Langston
2022: Maya Mallya

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