Philosophy / Religion

Faculty Dr. Fritz Detwiler American Religion, Native American Spiritual Traditions, Christian Right. Dr. Chris Momany Christian Social Teachings, John Wesley, Methodism, Asa Mahan, 19th Century Social Reform, Holiness Theology. Dr. Melissa Stewart Libertarian Theology, Feminism, Hermeneutics. Dr. James Spence Moral and Political Philosophy, Applied Ethics. Dr. Antonis Coumoundouros Ancient Philosophy, Ethics, Political Philosophy, History of Philosophy. Dr. Scott Elliott Bible, New Testament, Early Christianity, Ancient Novels, Literary Theory

Our department's mission is to challenge students to understand and answer questions that are fundamental to the meaning and significance of life. As a religion major you will study a variety of religions and cultures, ethics, the Bible (using both historical and literary approaches), and the historical development of religions. As a philosophy major you will gain a thorough grounding in the history of philosophy and ethics, and you will also be exposed to the several ways that philosophical ideas can enrich one’s existence. Launching from a liberal arts perspective, your professors will guide you as you grapple with the world around you. As you dig into the great religions and philosophies of the world, you will learn to think on different levels and to identify key issues and points of view. Courses look at a variety of cultural expressions, including movies, texts, and television, as ways of approaching the deeper questions. As you search for meaning, significance, and value, you'll come to understand yourself and others better, and you'll learn critical thinking skills that will be invaluable to you in graduate school or in your chosen career. Our department is also the home of the Adrian College Women’s Studies Program. Moreover, the faculty provides students with opportunities to present rigorous academic work in undergraduate student conferences.

Students interested in philosophy and religion may earn the Bachelor of Arts degree with one of two majors: religion or philosophy. A minor in teaching about religion in public schools is available for those majoring in education. The department also offers minors in both philosophy and religion.

Students majoring in philosophy or religion may enter such fields as counseling, church-related careers, law, business, social work, management, and a variety of service professions at the local, state and national levels. For those planning to enter graduate school in philosophy or religion, or to enter the seminary, the department offers a balanced program of preparatory studies.

Pre-Seminary Program
In the pre-seminary program, you'll find deep intellectual engagement in issues of theology. The program is a bridge between the vocational and academic sides of religion and has a special relationship with the philosophy/religion department. The chaplain and chair of the philosophy/religion department serve as advisors for this program. For more about our pre-seminary program click here.

Women’s Studies
Learn more about Adrian College's minor in Women's Studies.