The Department of Religious Studies examines religious beliefs, institutions and practices using approaches from the humanities, arts, social sciences and sciences. The academic study of religion, combined with appropriate courses in other fields, provides an excellent background for any professional career—including law, engineering, medicine and health care professions, journalism, social work and others—and for graduate studies in a number of fields.
A major in religious studies provides a well-rounded liberal arts education or can be combined conveniently with a second major. Minors or sequences in religious studies complement and broaden any field chosen as a major.
Dr. Timothy Beal to deliver 2026 Baccalaureate Address
Dr. Timothy Beal, Distinguished University Professor, Florence Harkness Professor of Religion, and Director of h.lab, will deliver Lehigh University’s 2026 Baccalaureate Address on Saturday, May 16th, 2026. Dr. Beal will discuss AI, ethics, and the role of higher education in shaping a just and sustainable future.
Dr. Jonathan Tan on Pope Leo XIV, one year later
Dr. Jonathan Tan, the Archbishop Paul J. Hallinan Professor in Catholic Studies I, was kept busy last academic year with interviews, panels, and op eds, first on the Late Pope Francis’ South Asian tour, followed months later by the appointment of his successor, Pope Leo XIV. One year later, the news media has again called upon Dr. Tan as the expert. He was recently featured in an interview on USA Today and quoted in the article, “An American pope, a presidential clash and what it means in the pews” (USA Today, May 2nd). Soon after, on the anniversary of Pope Leo XIV’s appointment, Dr. Tan published his latest op ed, “Reflections on the first year of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate” (UCA News, May 8th).
Dr. Jue Liang Named 2026-28 Mellon Junior Fellow and Tomasko Fellowship Recipient
Dr. Jue Liang has been named as one of ten 2026-28 Junior Fellows to join the Andrew W. Mellon Society of Fellows in Critical Bibliography (SoFCB) through a competitive selection process. She is also the recipient of the Nancy Norton Tomasko Fellowship, specializing in Asian materials or the history...
Religious Studies Spring 2026 Capstone Presentations
Join us in support of your fellow classmates as they present their capstone projects. Ask questions, pick their brains, and learn something along the way!
Wednesday, April 8th, 6pm
Crawford Hall, Rm A09
Refreshments will be provided
Medha Bhimaraju – Capstone
“Narrating Suffering and Practicing Healing in Zen Buddhist and Charismatic Christian Communities in the United States”
Asha Kartha – Honors Thesis
“Developing in Turmoil: Jewish Identity in Higher Education After October 7th”
Lily Stuart – Honors Thesis
“Gospels for Nonbelievers: Concerts and American Spirituality”
Highlights
Reisacher Summer Fellowship
Up to $3,000 in Summer Funding for Students in Religious Studies
Applications for the annual Reisacher Summer Fellowship are due Wednesday, April 1st 2026. To apply, complete the application cover sheet and additional requirements, then send to jesse.friedman@case.edu
Winners will be announced Friday, May 1st 2026. Good Luck!