About the Department
OFFICE INFORMATION
104 Heger Hall
115 Hofstra University
Hempstead, NY 11549
Phone: (516) 463-5612
Fax: (516) 463-2201
Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Acting Chair
Terry F. Godlove
204 Heger Hall
Phone: (516) 463-5614
E-mail
Senior Executive Secretary
Joanne Herlihy
E-mail
Naturally, the study of religion can equip a person for a variety of careers. The study of religion teaches one to listen attentively, read carefully, speak thoughtfully, and write persuasively. These skills enhance our ability to work effectively in diverse environments. Thus, students of religion often enter fields such as international business, law, diplomacy, journalism, social service, teaching, and religious ministry.
The study of religion offers students the chance to explore a variety of human experiences that have inspired some of the world's greatest writers, artists, and thinkers. The history of religion is as long as human history, and the forms of religious life are as diverse as the world cultures, past and present. Although there are innumerable theories about what religion is and how it should be studied, most people agree that humans participate in rituals that mark important life events. The study of these rituals, the human beliefs that underlie them, and the sacred texts and stories that reflect them helps us to understand better the cultures and politics of the world.
Religious studies has long been at the foundation of higher education. Two of the oldest universities in the world, Oxford and Cambridge, were founded as institutions dedicated to the study of religion. The four oldest universities in the United States, Harvard, the College of William and Mary, Yale, and Princeton, also served that purpose. Religious studies continues to be an important academic contributor to the humanities and social sciences.