Daniel Cowdin, Ph.D., Department Chair
Location: Marion 205
Office: (401) 341-3164
Email: cowdind@salve.edu
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Department of Religious and Theological Studies
Upcoming Events
The department of Religious and Theological Studies will be holding a Faculty-Student Symposium on October 15, from 4-5 p.m., in McAuley 105.
Dr. Tina Wray and senior Rick Stewart will present their findings from the summer 2009 excavations on Mt. Zion in Jerusalem.
This event is open to RTS Majors and Minors, those planning to travel to Israel with Dr. Wray next summer, and anyone interested in the topic.
The academic study of religion is a unique and exciting field. Unfortunately, it is feared by some, ignored by others, and misunderstood by most. Such views, whether held by religious or non-religious people, see reason and religion as unrelated, or even opposed to each other. At Salve Regina, the Department of Religious and Theological Studies sees the study of religion as important in two distinct yet interrelated ways.
First, seeking a deeper understanding of the world's religions is crucial to a liberal arts education in a global context. Studying religions, whether Christianity or other traditions, helps us explore who we are as human beings, both as individuals and as persons within cultures. Increased religious literacy leads to understanding, understanding leads to respect, and respect can lead to the sort of listening that transmits wisdom.
Second, as has been true from the beginning of the great Catholic medieval universities, faith itself seeks understanding, which leads to theology. The journey of Christian faith involves rather than excludes the intellect. This remains as true today as it ever was, and hence the great conversation of academic theology continues.
Thus the department helps students bring their critical and creative intelligence to bear on religious phenomena, both Christian and non-Christian. This requires the study of information and ideas, but also engagement with the images, symbols, and spiritual experiences at the heart of religions themselves. Majors and minors have the opportunity to explore both the more broadly religious and more specifically theological courses offered. The focus areas outlined below can help students choose a path of study that suits their needs.
Majors in religious and theological studies earn a versatile, strong liberal arts degree, valuable for both religious and secular pursuits. Students have gone on successfully to graduate schools, not only in religion but also in business, history, and law. Many of our graduates also enter directly into the working world, whether in church-related contexts, social services, education, and/or corporate life.