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If you are a reflective student who enjoys exploring ideas and thought processes, you’ll find Alma’s Philosophy and Religious Studies programs important in developing a greater understanding of yourself and worldwide traditions. Alma offers academic majors, minors and elective course work in both Philosophy and Religious Studies.
Philosophy
Philosophy at Alma challenges students to examine assumptions on issues as diverse as ethical views, reasoning, the existence of God, the relation between mind and body, gender issues, the nature of science and the basis of everyday knowledge. By making students more aware of alternative viewpoints on these and other issues, faculty members help students develop and defend their own informed, reasoned views.
Religious Studies
Religious Studies examines the way a person or community makes sense out of life (world views) and the way a person or community acts out and lives in a world view (life styles). The study of religion includes:
- Exploration of the nature and meaning of the religious dimensions of human experience
- Study of the major traditions, which remember and transmit religious experience and expressions
- Encouragement of an inquisitive, analytical and open approach to multiple religious perspectives
- Exploration of the value frameworks in various religious perspectives to help clarify student values.
Many students choose to make Religious Studies their second major or minor to accompany and complement other majors.
Pre-Ministry and Christian Education
To enter theological school you must obtain a bachelor’s degree, and Alma advises its students to obtain at least a minor in Religious Studies.
Alma’s Christian Education Program helps prepare for certification as an associate Christian educator in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and other denominations. You also can add its courses to the College’s requirements for elementary teaching.
Alma’s program prepares you for volunteer work in churches and for leadership roles on Christian education committees.
Religious Leadership Awards
Religious Leadership Awards recognize outstanding students from any denomination who demonstrate commitment and leadership qualities. Awards are based on demonstrated financial need and ranking in an essay competition. A renewable award of up to $1,000 is possible.
Students who have applied for the National Presbyterian College Scholarship may be considered. This may also accompany other academically-related scholarships.
To qualify, submit an application to the Admissions Department for the Alma College Religious Leadership Award, an essay on a designated topic and a recommendation from your church by Feb. 15.
National Presbyterian Scholarships
If you are a member of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), you may be eligible for the National Presbyterian Scholarship. Application forms, available at your church, are due Dec. 1. Awards are based on academic achievement and financial need.
Looking to the Future
With an emphasis on critical thinking, careful reading and clear writing, Alma’s academic programs in Philosophy and Religious Studies are an excellent preparation for careers.
Philosophy and Religious Studies alumni have gone on to Duke, Harvard, Princeton and Syracuse universities; the University of Michigan; Louisville, McCormick, Pittsburgh and Union seminaries and several law schools.
Students who have completed a Religious Studies major have gone on to careers in ministry, Christian education, social work, counseling, communication, teaching, business and law.
