What happens if I’ve been away from Harvard and the requirements for my field changed while I was gone?

Normally you will be allowed to complete your work in the Study of Religion under the guidelines that existed when you entered the program. See the Coursework section for historical handbooks.

Can I transfer from another concentration as a sophomore or junior and get credit for tutorials taken in other departments?

Yes, this is possible. Make an appointment to see the Director of Undergraduate Studies, and be sure to bring with you syllabi from your other tutorials and a completed Plan of Study from the Study of Religion.

Can courses “double-count” for both Gen Ed and Religion requirements?

Yes!

Can I concentrate in religion and still go to law or medical school?

Yes! Many of our concentrators do. Prepare to take the classes necessary for graduate school in your chosen field in addition to fulfilling our concentration requirements.

Why should I concentrate in Religion?

In the religion program students study a range of human experiences that have produced much of the greatest literature of the world, inspired its art and philosophy and shaped its moral consciousness. As a small concentration at Harvard, the Study of Religion is an intimate community within the larger university. Religion students regularly interact with faculty members and graduate students who share their interests. Tutorials are small (frequently one-on-one) and tailored to student interests. Student satisfaction with our program is consistently very high.

Do people who concentrate in religion also practice a religion?

Some of our students are religious and some are not. Those who are religious practice different faiths—Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and others. There is no presumption that students in religion will believe in God or practice a certain faith.

Committee on the Study of Religion