Program type
Major, Minor, Honours
Religions and Cultures (BA)
Primary campus
Sir George Williams (SGW)
Duration
3 to 4 years
Start term
Fall, Winter
Virtual information sessions
Discover what makes Concordia's Faculty of Arts and Science stand out as a leader in the humanities and social and natural sciences, including academic opportunities, hands-on learning and how to achieve your goals.
Why study Religions and Cultures?
People’s religious beliefs and cultural orientations touch on the most fundamental aspects of human existence: health, illness and death; sexuality; gender roles; power dynamics; social relationships; and the search for meaning. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to fully respect and understand the religious and cultural realities of others is powerful indeed. By developing an informed appreciation of different cultures and values, you’ll position yourself to engage with the world as a truly global citizen – and gain insight into your own assumptions, as an individual and a member of a group. If you consider yourself a social activist, the programs in Religions and Cultures may be the place for you!
The study of religion at Concordia is characterized by a deep respect for diversity of culture, gender, and sexual orientation and by an emphasis on field work. You’ll have the opportunity to visit places of worship and meet people connected to Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism in Montreal. You will have the opportunity to study languages spoken across the world.
Program highlights
- Students can apply for program-specific in-course scholarships
- Award-winning faculty specializing in gender and sexuality, popular culture, contemporary cultural and religious experience, literature, and regional studies like Tibet/China, Iranian Studies, South Asia, and more.
- Study major world religions and traditions through a multidisciplinary lens.
Special funding for out-of-province students
Up to $4000 for undergraduate programs.
Program structure
A Bachelor of Arts degree takes a minimum of three or four years (90 – 120 credits) of full-time study, depending on your academic background.
Program options
- Honours in Religions and Cultures (60 credits)*
- Major in Religions and Cultures (42 credits)
- Minor in Religions and Cultures (24 credits)
*Honours is a highly concentrated program, ideal for students planning to continue to graduate studies. If you are interested in Honours, speak with your program advisor in your first year of study at Concordia. Students applying to the University are able to apply to the major.
Courses
United States students: A U.S. Federal Student Aid-eligible version of this program is offered. This version meets all U.S. regulations (such as no co-operative education or e-courses) for eligible programs.
Admission criteria
Minimum cut-off averages and course requirements
- Quebec CEGEP: DEC
- High School: C+
- ACT or SAT is NOT required
- Canadian curricula course requirements
- Accepted international qualifications
- International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma: 26
- Baccalauréat français: 11
- British system of education (GCE):
- A-levels: At least two A-level exams CD or
- AS-levels: At least 4 AS-level exams with equivalent results or
- BTEC: Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in a related subject area with equivalent results
- Additional information for British System of Education (GCE) applicants
- University Transfers (internal/external): C
Minimum cut-off averages should be used as indicators. The cut-off data may change depending on the applicant pool. Applicants who meet the stated minimum requirements are not guaranteed admission to these programs.
Application deadlines
FALL TERM
March 1 is the deadline to apply for fall term entry. International students are encouraged to apply by February 1 to allow sufficient time for CAQ and study permit application processing.
WINTER
November 1 is the deadline to apply for winter term entry. International students are encouraged to apply by September 1 to allow sufficient time for CAQ and study permit application processing.
Not all programs are available for winter term entry. Please check program availability for the term, before you start your application.
We reserve the right to close admission to a program at any time after the official deadline without prior notice.
After your degree
You’ll be well-positioned to become an effective, high-impact professional in fields including law, medicine, international development, international business, journalism and social work. Our graduates have found success in:
- Humanitarian work (NGOs)
- Teaching English as a second language
- Psychology
- Supporting the integration of refugees
- Public advocacy
Other Religions and Cultures students have also gone on to graduate studies in the field.
Student stories
Scarlet Guy
Bachelor of Arts Honours History: Public History
Find out how Scarlet Guy discovers a world of interdisciplinary learning and community support in the Faculty of Arts and Science.
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