Religion is integral to human existence. Its rich and varied dimensions encompass art and literature, thought and emotion, text and ritual, drama and dance. The study of religion centers on the very diversity of our shared experience. Drawing upon the considerable teaching expertise, research skills, and scholarly ability of its faculty, the School of Religious Studies in both the undergraduate and graduate programs fosters a critical and appreciative understanding of religion.

The School of Religious Studies recently expanded in scope as well as in faculty. This expansion led to the School's recognition within the learning community as a visible and respected presence among major research institutions that offer undergraduate and graduate programs in the academic study of religion. Most importantly, the School's fundamental approach to scholarship and teaching assumed a more comparative and interdisciplinary orientation. In its curriculum the School expanded well beyond its initial Judeo-Christian focus into the history of Asian religions. These changes in some cases set the pace for monumental changes in the field of religious studies generally speaking.

After 75 years as the School of Religion, and after establishing such a significant tradition within the university as a major institution among public universities, the faculty have officially changed our name to "School of Religious Studies." This change of name signifies a change in both substantive identity and purpose. Today we define our mission in these words: to advance scholarly inquiry into religion and its influences, and to educate students for responsible citizenship in a religiously pluralistic world by teaching them to think clearly and critically about religion. Our focus is on the comparative study of religion and the arts, religion and conflict, and religion and health (bioethics).