The Religious Studies & Philosophy major at Avila
Avila’s Religious Studies & Philosophy degree is at the heart of the University’s Catholic heritage. Inspired by our founders, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet (CSJ), faith and reason are taken as valued viewpoints on academic work and community life. A mutually-enriching and critical dialogue between two disciplines (Religious Studies and Philosophy) is central to the liberal arts at a Catholic institution. Our integrated curriculum bridges the two disciplines of religious studies and philosophy so that you’ll receive thorough training in critical thinking, analytical writing, and cultural understanding — key skills employers seek.
Our faculty’s broad expertise and emphasis on individualized instruction allow religious studies and philosophy majors to explore their interests with the full support of experts. Through oral presentations, experiential learning and extensive writing, you’ll graduate with a solid foundational understanding of cultural and intellectual issues paired with robust communication skills.
Are you interested in religious studies & philosophy?
Be Prepared for Your Future
Incoming first-year students are guaranteed access to an internship or research experience before graduation. Avila students have completed hands-on learning experiences in companies and organizations across the Kansas City metro.
Avila Religious Studies & Philosophy graduates are pursuing careers as:
- Writers
- Entrepreneurs
- Lawyers
- Computer Scientists
- Healthcare Providers
Avila Religious Studies & Philosophy graduates choose to work in:
- Mediation and Conflict Resolution
- Teaching
- Medicine
Choose your Concentration
Religious Studies
You’ll be exposed to a core of courses which will help you develop a global understanding of relationships among religious beliefs, reasoned inquiry, and human values. You’ll graduate with a historical, socio-cultural, and political understanding of diverse religious traditions and practices.Philosophy
Your philosophy concentration will expose you to the analysis and evaluation of significant philosophies, and religious ideas or discourses in order to critically articulate your own spiritual, intellectual, and ethical commitments. Through writing, speaking, and collaborative work, graduates will come away with refined understanding, interpretation, and critical perspectives.Transferring to Avila?
We work with you to make the most of your transfer credits so you’re on track to graduate with a bachelor’s degree.
An Environment to Enhance your Education
Diversity and its expression
The Avila Family is a melting pot of cultural backgrounds, a true representation of our Kansas City home. More than 31 percent of our student body are first-generation college students and we host international students from dozens of countries from around the world. With active campus groups and organizations such as the Avila Ambassadors, Black Student Union, Society of Latinos and International Student Organization, you’ll find the perfect group for you to express yourself and be a leader.
Contact
Avila University Department of Religious Studies & Philosophy, Borserine Center
11901 Wornall Road / Kansas City, MO 64145 / 816-501-2407
Kenneth Parsons, Ph.D., Associate Professor
P: 816-501-2407 / E: kenneth.parsons@avila.edu