Post-Bachelor Certificate in Accounting ( CPA Bridging )
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Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies
Lethbrigde
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program at the University of Lethbridge provides students with a comprehensive understanding of religious beliefs, practices, and traditions from around the world. This interdisciplinary program explores the diversity of religious experiences, texts, rituals, and doctrines, fostering critical inquiry, intercultural dialogue, and cross-disciplinary perspectives. Students engage with religious traditions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Indigenous religions, and new religious movements, gaining insights into the role of religion in shaping individual and collective identities, values, and worldviews.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program is designed to provide students with a broad foundation in religious studies while allowing for specialization in specific areas of interest. Courses cover topics such as comparative religion, religious ethics, religious philosophy, scripture studies, theology, and religious history. Students explore primary religious texts, engage with scholarly interpretations, and critically analyze religious phenomena in historical, social, and cultural contexts. Elective courses offer students the opportunity to delve deeper into specialized areas such as mysticism, spirituality, religion and society, or religion and science, tailoring their education to their interests and career goals.
Research Focus: Research is a central component of the Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program at the University of Lethbridge. Faculty members and students are actively engaged in research projects that explore various aspects of religion, including textual analysis, historical inquiry, ethnographic research, and theoretical exploration. Through independent studies, research papers, and collaborative projects, students have the opportunity to pursue original research, critically evaluate religious phenomena, and contribute to the scholarly understanding of religion. Research-focused courses encourage students to develop their research skills, critical thinking abilities, and written communication skills, preparing them for graduate studies or careers in academia, religious institutions, or related fields.
Industry Engagement: The University of Lethbridge maintains strong connections with religious communities, cultural organizations, and interfaith groups, providing students with opportunities for industry engagement. Through partnerships with religious institutions, community organizations, and non-profit agencies, students have access to internships, volunteer opportunities, and experiential learning experiences. Industry engagement initiatives facilitate dialogue, collaboration, and community outreach, helping students gain practical experience and build connections within religious communities, social service agencies, or cultural organizations, enhancing their understanding of religion in practice and its impact on society.
Global Perspective: The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program at the University of Lethbridge emphasizes a global perspective, exposing students to diverse religious traditions, cultural perspectives, and spiritual practices from around the world. Courses explore religious phenomena in different geographical regions, historical periods, and cultural contexts, highlighting the interconnectedness of religious experiences across cultures and civilizations. Students learn to appreciate the complexity and diversity of religious beliefs, rituals, and worldviews, engaging with questions of religious pluralism, tolerance, and dialogue in a globalized world.
Location
Lethbrigde
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
CAD 22600
Application Fees: CAD $ 140
Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs should have completed their secondary education or its equivalent. They should have achieved a minimum overall average of 70% or higher in their previous studies.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.0, with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- PTE: A minimum score of 54 on the Pearson Test of English.
- DET: A minimum score of 105 on the Duolingo English Test.
The University of Lethbridge offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic pursuits. These scholarships are awarded based on various criteria, including academic achievement, leadership qualities, community involvement, and specific program requirements.
International Student Scholarships: The University of Lethbridge offers several scholarships exclusively for international students. These scholarships are merit-based and range in value. Eligibility criteria and application processes may vary for each scholarship.
President's Admission Scholarship for World Leaders: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to international students entering their first undergraduate degree program at the University of Lethbridge. It recognizes academic excellence, leadership potential, and community engagement. The scholarship amount varies, and recipients are selected based on their admission application.
Faculty-specific Scholarships: Various faculties at the University of Lethbridge offer scholarships specific to their programs. These scholarships may be available for both undergraduate and graduate students. Eligibility and application requirements will differ based on the faculty and program of study.
External Scholarships: The university encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities provided by government agencies, foundations, and organizations in their home countries or through international scholarship programs. The International Student Services office can provide guidance and information on external scholarship options.
Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students at the University of Lethbridge may have the opportunity to work as research or teaching assistants. These assistantships provide financial support and valuable experience in research or teaching roles.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines can vary each year.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program at the University of Lethbridge are well-equipped for diverse career opportunities in fields such as academia, religious institutions, non-profit organizations, government, counseling, and interfaith dialogue.
Academic Researcher/Professor: One of the primary career paths for graduates is pursuing a career in academia as a researcher or professor. Graduates may further their studies in religious studies or related disciplines to obtain advanced degrees such as a Master's or Ph.D. They can then pursue research positions or teaching positions at universities, colleges, or research institutes. As academics, they contribute to the scholarly understanding of religion through research, publication of academic articles, and teaching courses in religious studies, theology, or comparative religion.
Religious Leader/Minister: Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies graduates may pursue careers as religious leaders or ministers within various religious traditions. They may work as pastors, priests, imams, rabbis, or spiritual leaders within religious congregations, guiding communities in matters of faith, ethics, and spiritual growth. Religious leaders may also engage in pastoral care, counseling, and community outreach, providing support and guidance to individuals and families facing spiritual, moral, or personal challenges.
Nonprofit Administrator/Community Organizer: Graduates may pursue careers in the nonprofit sector as administrators, program coordinators, or community organizers. They may work for religious organizations, interfaith groups, or social service agencies, managing programs, organizing events, and advocating for social justice causes. Nonprofit administrators may oversee religious education programs, interfaith dialogue initiatives, or community service projects, helping to promote understanding, cooperation, and social change within diverse communities.
Counselor/Chaplain: Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies graduates may pursue careers in counseling, pastoral care, or chaplaincy. They may work in hospitals, prisons, universities, or military settings, providing emotional support, spiritual guidance, and religious services to individuals facing crisis, illness, or life transitions. Chaplains may offer religious rituals, prayers, or spiritual counseling to patients, inmates, students, or military personnel, helping them cope with stress, grief, or existential questions and find meaning and purpose in their lives.
Government Advisor/Policy Analyst: Graduates may pursue careers in government or public policy, working as advisors, analysts, or consultants on issues related to religion, culture, or diversity. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, or international organizations, providing expertise on religious freedom, multiculturalism, or interfaith relations. Government advisors may develop policies, conduct research, or facilitate dialogue between religious communities and policymakers, contributing to the promotion of religious tolerance, human rights, and social cohesion in diverse societies.
