COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Humanities with a Concentration in Religious Studies at California State University, Sacramento requires between 30 and 48 units depending on course selections. The program combines foundational humanities coursework with specialized study of global religious traditions. It is designed to help students understand religion as a cultural and historical phenomenon while developing strong analytical, research, and writing skills.The required lower division courses total 12 units and introduce students to major religious traditions and cultural ideas. All students must complete HRS 4 Exploring World Religions, which provides an overview of the beliefs, practices, and historical development of major world religions. In addition, students select three courses from HRS 10 Arts and Ideas of the West: Ancient to Medieval, HRS 11 Arts and Ideas of the West: Renaissance to Modern, HRS 70 Arts and Ideas of Asia: Ancient to Medieval, and HRS 71 Arts and Ideas of Asia: Medieval to Modern. These courses help students understand the cultural and intellectual contexts in which religious traditions developed.The required upper division courses total 9 units and focus on advanced academic study of religion. HRS 108 Approaches to Religious Studies introduces the major methods and theoretical perspectives used in the academic study of religion. Students must also complete one course from the HRS 190 Seminar in Humanities and Religious Studies series, which provides specialized exploration of selected topics. In addition, HRS 198 Seminar in Religious Studies allows students to engage in advanced research and discussion of religious traditions and cultural issues.Students must complete between 9 and 18 units from two major areas of study. The first category focuses on religions with South and East Asian origins, including courses such as History of Buddhism, Chinese Philosophy and Religion, Zen Buddhism and Daoism, The Confucian Tradition, and India’s Religions. The second category examines religions with West Asian origins, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, as well as historical studies of biblical texts and the development of Christianity.Students may also complete up to 9 units of supporting courses that expand their understanding of religion through related subjects such as mythology, mysticism, environmental spirituality, religion in film, and the sociology or philosophy of religion. With advisor approval, students may also select relevant courses from disciplines such as anthropology, communication, history, philosophy, sociology, ethnic studies, and women’s studies.Through this flexible curriculum, students gain a broad understanding of religious traditions across cultures while developing critical thinking, cultural awareness, and research skills that support careers in education, public service, counseling, law, and cultural institutions.