Philosophy and Religious Studies

About the Department

The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies offers two majors: one in philosophy and one in religious studies. While the two majors complement and enhance each other, they retain separate identities and missions. In both programs, Spelman students learn how to read critically, write cogently, identify and interrogate historical and contemporary discourses, apply discipline-specific research methods, conduct and present their research in their courses, and employ inquiry-based learning to take ultimate responsibility for their academic potential.

Mission

The Department’s mission is to create programs of study that exemplify the Spelman College Mission Statement: Spelman College, a historically Black college and a global leader in the education of women of African descent, is dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences and the intellectual, creative, ethical, and leadership development of its students. Spelman empowers the whole person to engage the many cultures of the world and inspires a commitment to positive social change.

Philosophy and religious studies are central to the college’s liberal arts mission. The Department develops students’ analytical, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary skills, preparing them to address complex intellectual and social issues. Philosophy strengthens reading, writing, and argumentation, while religious studies deepens understanding of religious traditions and the ideas shaping human identity, knowledge, and morality. Together, these majors cultivate ethical reflection and critical analysis, preparing students for graduate study, professional careers, and leadership dedicated to positive social change.

Department Goals

The Department’s primary goal is to create programs aligned with the College’s institutional goals, especially academic excellence. While the meaning of “spiritual” is debated, the Spelman College includes it as part of its definition of academic excellence. Philosophy and Religious Studies support this commitment by encouraging students to explore questions of selfhood, meaning, authority, and embodiment, deepening their intellectual and spiritual development.

Students often enroll in Philosophy and Religious Studies courses to strengthen critical thinking and support their intellectual and personal development as women of African descent across majors in the social sciences, STEM, and the humanities. These courses build analytical and interpretive skills applicable to their primary fields, making the Department an important intellectual resource whose impact extends beyond its number of majors.

Our courses are also applicable to students transitioning after graduation. For example, students who take our courses in both majors (especially logic) report higher LSAT and GRE scores. Students also report passing logic tests given as a screening for jobs in marketing, finance, and other business fields. Sensitivity to other cultures and religious perspectives is essential in any contemporary work environment. Religious literacy is a critical competency for students as they engage with and navigate the complexities of the contemporary world.

Distinct History

The study of philosophy and religion at Spelman College originates in the College’s founding through the collaboration of Friendship Baptist Church and missionaries from the American Baptist Convention, when chapel programs and religious study were closely connected. As Spelman moved away from sectarian affiliation, the religion curriculum evolved to reflect its liberal arts identity. The Departments of Philosophy and Religion merged in 1997–1998, and a major curriculum revision in 2004 de-centered Christianity and emphasized historical methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches in the study of religion, changes that strengthened graduate preparation for students.

With the addition of new faculty and a curriculum review addressing philosophy’s Eurocentric bias, the philosophy program adopted a critical-canonical approach that situates Western philosophy alongside sociopolitical traditions such as feminism, postcolonial and decolonial theory, philosophy of disability, and critical race theory. This shift aligns with broader changes in philosophy graduate programs that increasingly emphasize global and interdisciplinary perspectives.

The Department produces Black women philosophers and religious studies scholars by providing supportive mentorship, visible role models, and inclusive curricula focused on race, gender, and justice. Finally, given that the curricula speak directly to students’ lived experiences, the knowledge they gain is applicable, transformative, and enduring.

Download the Philosophy Brochure

Download the Religious Studies Brochure

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find an academic advisor?

You will be assigned an academic advisor once you are officially registered as a philosophy major or a religious studies major.

Can I double major?

Yes. As long as you plan thoughtfully, a double major can be intellectually enriching. It can also expand your career opportunities. Please meet with your academic advisor to discuss your interest in a double major.