Student interest in the religious studies major has been very low for some time. Given the current economic climate, we are looking at all of our programs and faculty resources to make sure that faculty resources are matched with areas of student interests. Because of the low student interest, we have decided to recommend the discontinuation of the religious studies major. This recommendation must go to the Faculty Senate for approval, but if approved, the program would end in June 2012. Rest assured, however, that this decision will not affect your ability to complete your Major. We will continue to offer those courses that currently enrolled religious studies majors will need to fulfill curricular requirements and graduate with their religious studies major.
Penn State has some fifty years of history of teaching religions. As a state-related institution of higher learning, we believe strongly in the need to offer courses that help student understand the histories and beliefs of the world's religious traditions. We are convinced that a fuller and deeper understanding of the developments of society and culture requires some knowledge of religious outlooks, institutions and practices. The discipline of Religious Studies is an integrally important component in training in the humanities. Thus, we will continue to teach courses in religious studies to fulfill general education needs. Moreover, we will continue to offer a religious studies minor that students from every discipline could take.
