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.

Luke Kinney earns 2012 Outstanding Major in Religious Studies Award

Luke Kinney of Aurora was awarded the 2012 Outstanding Major in Religious Studies Award during Honors Day May 15 at North Central College.

Peace Corps Director Aaron Williams to address North Central College Commencement

Aaron Williams, director of the Peace Corps, will deliver the address June 9 at the 147th Commencement ceremony of North Central College.

Michael Lunberg, Consistorial Councillor in Berlin and Brandenburg, Germany

German leader who lived in divided Germany gives two lectures

North Central College hosts lectures April 2-3 by Michael Lunberg, who grew up in East Germany under communist state, was involved in peaceful opposition.

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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-Theological Seminary
Drew 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

Feature

Lauren Wallem

Religious Studies

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 Student Organization and repaired homes for Habitat for Humanity.

Her studies exposed her to various theological perspectives, she says. “I can step into graduate school with confidence that I got a well-rounded education beyond my own faith tradition.”

Lauren was accepted to the master of divinity program at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary.

Feature

Kimberly Moulos

Religious studies major

“Our religious studies major includes courses in many different areas so we’ll be well-rounded and knowledgeable,” Kimberly says. “That’s really cool.”

Kimberly has studied everything from Judaism and Christianity to Buddhism and Islam with professors who hold both master of divinity and doctoral degrees. “My professor of Old and New Testament is an incredible Biblical scholar,” she says. “I’ve learned so much in my classes, and I’ve realized that religious expression is what a culture finds most valuable.”

Kimberly created a student organization that encourages religious learning and discovery called Ecce (“behold” in Latin). The group meets weekly, hosts guest speakers and visits various churches.

She is pursuing a master’s degree at Chicago Theological Seminary and hopes ultimately to teach religious studies at the college level.

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