Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - HUM 130 D900

Introduction to Religious Studies (3)

Class Number: 2557

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Surrey

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduction to concepts central to the academic study of religion, exploring various relevant methodologies. Provides a framework for understanding the many ways in which humans experience the phenomenon of the sacred through symbol, ritual, doctrine, and engagement, in a variety of religious traditions and cultures. Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

HUM 130: ‘Introduction to Religious Studies’, is both an introduction to the methods involved in the study of religion, and a survey of the major contours of the world’s major religious traditions. Through readings, group discussion and writing assignments we will explore the varieties of religious life. This course provides a framework for understanding and entering into the many ways in which human beings experience the Holy through story, practice, symbol, ritual and doctrine. It is also an exploration into the ways that religion breaks into the everyday world of society and politics. Starting with a history of the concepts and methods used in the study of religion we will define and problematize the term ‘religion.’ Then we will move into a survey of the major traditions of the world. We will conclude the course with broader conversations about the relationship between religion, science, gender, feminism, politics and the environment. We will also speculate on the future of religion in a complex and changing world.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Define and problematize the terms religion and spirituality. 
  • Become familiar with the core methods employed in the study of religion. 
  • Become proficient in key concepts in the study of religions. 
  • Increase our literacy of the world’s diverse religious traditions. 
  • Cultivate the ability to engage and understand the perspectives of various religious traditions on their own terms. 
  • Develop critical reading, critical thinking, facilitation and writing skills. 

Grading

  • Weekly Reading Reflections 25%
  • Midterm Exam 25%
  • Final Exam 25%
  • Religion in a Secular Society Reflection 25%

NOTES:

This course is offered in person. If you are interested in taking the asynchronous online version, see the OL01 section of HUM 130 which is offered during all three terms: fall, spring and summer.   

This course fulfills the Global Humanities requirements for the  

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

  • Esposito, John L., Darrell J. Fasching, and Todd T. Lewis, World Religions Today. Seventh Edition (Oxford University Press, 2021). ***No other editions please.***   
  • Please purchase the textbook only through the SFU bookstore.  
  • Pg. # references used from a PDF version cited in your Roundtable Discussions will be marked with an automatic zero until you get the correct edition of the textbook.  

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.