B.A. in Accounting
Lycoming's B.S. in Accounting provides two tracks for students: a 150-credit hour t...
B.A. in Religion
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Religion at Lycoming College provides an interdisciplinary and critical examination of religious phenomena across various cultures and historical periods. It moves beyond a devotional approach to foster an academic understanding of religion's role in society, culture, and individual lives. Students gain familiarity with the worldviews of major world religions and engage in comparative analysis of diverse traditions' texts and practices. The program is designed to develop students into global citizens and conscious community partners, capable of critically engaging with issues of religious difference.
Curriculum: The Religion curriculum at Lycoming is structured to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of religious studies. Core requirements typically include an introductory course like "Introduction to World Religions" (REL 110), which familiarizes students with major worldviews and comparative analysis. Students also delve into specific sacred texts through courses like "Introduction to the Old Testament" (REL 113) and "Introduction to the New Testament" (REL 114). Upper-level courses explore diverse topics such as Judaic Studies, Islam, Death and Dying, and various special topics in religious studies, allowing for in-depth exploration of specific traditions or themes. The curriculum emphasizes critical engagement with religious difference and an appreciation for how religion pervades contemporary life.
Research Focus: Research is a significant component of the Religion program at Lycoming College. Students are actively encouraged to engage in meaningful, relevant research alongside faculty. This often involves detailed studies of particular issues in biblical studies, historical theology, or the analysis of religious texts and practices through theoretical insights (e.g., gender and performance theory). Students have opportunities to present their research at the Lycoming College Undergraduate Research Conference, and some have even been invited to present at regional or national conferences, with plans for publication in undergraduate research journals. The college's Humanities Research Center also supports collaborative student-faculty research, further enhancing research opportunities for religion majors.
Industry Engagement: Lycoming College emphasizes that the academic study of religion equips students with highly valued skills for a wide range of careers. While direct "industry engagement" in the traditional sense might not be as explicit as in professional programs, the Religion program cultivates critical reading, writing, and thinking skills, which are universally sought after. The college's Center for Enhanced Academic Experiences assists students with career advising and securing internships, allowing them to apply their analytical and cross-cultural understanding in various professional settings, such as non-profits, advocacy groups, education, or government. The program also prepares students for pre-professional pathways like pre-ministry.
Global Perspective: A global perspective is inherently central to Lycoming College's B.A. in Religion. The curriculum explicitly includes "Introduction to World Religions," fostering familiarity with diverse global belief systems. Courses like "Judaic Studies" and "Islam" further broaden students' understanding of religious traditions beyond a Western-centric view. The program cultivates an appreciation for the ways in which religion impacts the lives of billions worldwide and explores its interconnections with other global issues, such as social justice and environmental sustainability. While specific study abroad requirements are not detailed, Lycoming College strongly encourages international experiences, which would further deepen a religion major's understanding of global religious diversity and its societal implications.
Location
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 49258
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 70 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 50 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
Lycoming College is attracting talented international students by offering generous and competitive scholarship opportunities. These scholarships help make a high-quality liberal arts education accessible and affordable for students from around the world, fostering a diverse and vibrant campus community.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international applicants to Lycoming College are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships there is no separate application required. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular achievements.
Renewable Scholarships: Scholarships awarded to international students at Lycoming are renewable for up to four years, provided that students maintain satisfactory academic progress and good standing with the college. This continuity offers financial stability throughout the undergraduate journey.
Need-Based Aid: In addition to merit scholarships, Lycoming College offers limited need-based financial aid to international students who demonstrate financial need. Students may be required to submit additional documentation to be considered for this aid. Need-based support complements merit awards to further reduce the overall cost of attendance.
Specialty Scholarships and Awards: Lycoming College occasionally provides targeted scholarships based on students’ fields of study, leadership qualities, or unique talents. International students are encouraged to inquire about available departmental awards or special grants during the admissions process.
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Religion from Lycoming College provides graduates with a distinctive and highly transferable set of skills, including critical thinking, complex textual analysis, nuanced communication, and cross-cultural understanding.
Non-Profit Program Coordinator/Manager: Graduates are well-suited for roles in non-profit organizations, especially those focused on social justice, community development, interfaith dialogue, or humanitarian aid. Their understanding of diverse populations and ethical issues is invaluable in program design, implementation, and community outreach.
Social Worker/Community Outreach Specialist: The insights gained into human motivation, belief systems, and cultural contexts make religion majors effective in social services. They can work in advocacy, counseling support, or outreach roles, assisting individuals and communities with various needs. This often requires further certification or a master's degree (MSW).
Educator (K-12 or Adult Education): With additional certification, graduates can teach history, social studies, or even world religions at the K-12 level. They can also work in adult education, developing curriculum or leading workshops on cultural understanding, ethics, or comparative religions.
Journalist/Writer (Specializing in Culture, Society, or Religion): The strong research, critical analysis, and writing skills developed in the program are excellent for journalism or content creation. Graduates can report on social trends, cultural phenomena, global affairs, or specific religious communities for various media outlets.
Human Resources Specialist / Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator: Companies increasingly seek professionals who understand diverse perspectives and can foster inclusive environments. Religion majors' insights into cultural differences and identity can be applied in HR roles, particularly in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Government Service (e.g., Foreign Service, Intelligence Analyst): Understanding global belief systems, cultural nuances, and historical conflicts is crucial for international relations. Graduates can pursue careers in the U.S. Foreign Service, intelligence agencies, or other government bodies where cross-cultural communication and analysis are essential.
Museum Educator/Archivist/Curator Assistant: For those interested in cultural heritage, graduates can work in museums, historical societies, or archives. They can research and interpret religious artifacts, historical documents, or cultural exhibitions, and develop educational programs.
Communications Specialist/Public Relations: The ability to articulate complex ideas, understand audience perspectives, and craft compelling narratives is highly valued in communications. Graduates can work in public relations, marketing, or corporate communications, particularly for organizations with diverse stakeholders.
Law (with further study): The rigorous analytical thinking, argumentation, and ethical reasoning inherent in a religion degree provide an excellent foundation for law school. Graduates can pursue careers as lawyers, particularly those interested in human rights, constitutional law, or international law.
Pre-Ministry/Religious Leadership (with further study): While a B.A. is typically not sufficient for ordination, it provides a robust academic foundation for those aspiring to roles as clergy, chaplains (e.g., in hospitals, military, prisons), religious educators, or youth directors within specific faith traditions, which would typically require a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or other specialized theological degrees.
