Religious Studies (Philosophy, B.A.)
This program is designed to provide students with a solid grounding in the history of philosophy and the ability to analyze arguments proposed in serious discussions of any subject. This concentration is designed for students looking to understand the role of religion in human culture and to expand their cultural competency. Students may also choose to minor in religious studies.
Religious Studies (Philosophy, B.A.)
Description
What is Religious Studies at ODU like?
This program is designed to provide students with a solid grounding in the history of philosophy and the ability to analyze arguments proposed in serious discussions of any subject. This concentration is designed for students looking to understand the role of religion in human culture and to expand their cultural competency. Students may also choose to minor in religious studies.
Program Highlights
What makes Religious Studies at ODU unique?
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Courses equip you with versatile and marketable skills, including critical thinking, excellent verbal and written communication, and problem-solving
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Students completing Philosophy BAs have the highest average composite GRE scores and either the best or nearly the best law school admission rates
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Our program provides access to real-world experiences such as conferences, clubs, service learning, and summer programs to enhance your resume
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Passionate faculty invest in the success of every student and seek to support a diverse, and inclusive community of philosophical thinkers
AT A GLANCE
College / School:
Major:
Philosophy
Degree Level:
Undergraduate
Delivery Mode(s):
On-Campus
Degree Earned:
Bachelor of Arts
Department:
Careers
What are some careers in this field?
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Clergy
$50,800
MEDIAN SALARY
Conduct religious worship and perform other spiritual functions associated with beliefs and practices of religious faith or denomination. Provide spiritual and moral guidance and assistance to members.
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
$78,790
MEDIAN SALARY
Teach courses in philosophy, religion, and theology. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Reporters and Correspondents
$51,550
MEDIAN SALARY
Collect and analyze facts about newsworthy events by interview, investigation, or observation. Report and write stories for newspaper, news magazine, radio, or television.
Equal Opportunity Representatives and Officers
$71,540
MEDIAN SALARY
Monitor and evaluate compliance with equal opportunity laws, guidelines, and policies to ensure that employment practices and contracting arrangements give equal opportunity without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.
Courses
What are some courses offered in Religious Studies at ODU?
REL 352:
Islam
A study of the Islamic tradition, including its primary texts, historical development, intellectual tenets, and contributions to human culture. Specific attention will be given to Islam as a way of life. Prerequisites: three semester hours in philosophy or permission of the instructor.
PHIL 481:
Buddhism
A study of the origin, historical development, and contemporary status of Buddhism, in terms of its religious and philosophical elements and its influence in Asian cultures. Prerequisites: Junior standing and three semester hours in philosophy, or permission of the instructor.
REL 333:
Historical Jesus
This course examines the several quests to uncover the historical reality behind Jesus of Nazareth in modern biblical-historical scholarship, including the work of scholars like Albert Schweitzer, Rudolph Bultmann, and the many contemporary inquirers. Students are expected to have some familiarity with the New Testament and/or early Christianity. Prerequisites: Junior standing and three semester hours in REL or PHIL.
Requirements
What are the requirements to apply for Religious Studies at ODU?
Students entering the Bachelor of Arts program in Religious Studies should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Undergraduate Admission)
A student needs to have earned a grade of C or better in ENGL 110C or its equivalent and completed at least 26 credit hours
It is also recommended the student have completed PHIL 110P, PHIL 120P, PHIL 230E, or PHIL 250E, but it is not required
Cost
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Virginia Resident
Per Credit:
$ 374
Non-Resident
Per Credit:
$ 1,039
Active Duty Military Rate
Per Credit:
$ 250
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Per Credit:
$ 407
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid
Next Steps
I like this program. What are the next steps?
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Contact
Need help applying?
Meet Your Enrollment Team
Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.
PROFESSOR & CHAIR
Name:
Dr. D. E. Wittkower
Location:
9016 BATTEN ARTS & LETTERS, NORFOLK, VA, 23529
Email:
Office:
757-683-3864
Undergraduate Admissions
Location:
1004 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3685
Fax:
757-683-3255
Email:
admissions@odu.edu
International Admissions
Location:
2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3701
Fax:
757-683-3651
Email:
intladm@odu.edu
Transfer
I like this program and want to transfer. What are my next steps?
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful transition, engagement, and academic achievement of transfer students. The services and programs offered to you as a Monarch are endless so take advantage of every opportunity. Even before you set foot on campus, we encourage you to Explore, Experience, and Engage! Visit our Transfer Students page for more information.
Related Programs
What other options does ODU have?
How would you like to complete your program?
Enhance your college career by gaining relevant experience with the skills and knowledge needed for your future career. Discover our experiential learning opportunities.
Get an inside look into your major of interest when you speak to professors and current students at our monthly First Friday events.
Explore our beautiful campus and its community! Join us for our Spring Open House events in February and March.