Department of Religious Studies

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The Virginia Center for the Study of Religion (VCSR) draws on the expertise of scholars at UVA and beyond to support public debates and research projects on topics of religion of great public significance, from all the major religious traditions of the world. In so doing, it honors Thomas Jefferson’s belief that well-informed, respectful, and daring discussions are crucial for the well-being of civil society.

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Founded in 1967, we are the largest stand-alone religion department in the United States and play a leading role in the national and international study of religion. Rooted in the humanities and liberal arts, our faculty offer a comprehensive curriculum that spans traditions, geographies, and methodologies, including historical, philosophical, philological, ethnographic, and literary approaches.