Here are the classes that we recommend you take during your first year as a Religious Studies major at Chapman.
In your first semester, students typically take 12-15 credits (most classes are 3 credits; those with labs are 4). 12 credits are required to be in full-time status.
Introductory Math Requirement
As an incoming first-year student, you must take a math assessment. If you place into Math 100 (Learning and Studying Mathematics for Understanding), then you must enroll in this course in your first year (fall or spring semester). For more information, visit our Math Assessment webpage.
General Education Classes
You can choose a General Education (GE) class from any GE category – it’s your choice. In general, the following GE areas are recommended to begin/complete during your first year:
GE Language Study (strongly recommended)
GE Quantitative Inquiry
Note: Some GE courses may “double count” with your major or minor. Students can share up to 9 credits between major and GE requirements and can share up to 6 credits between minor and GE requirements. Visit the General Education Program site to review the GE policies and see a list of approved courses for each GE area.
You can learn more about general education on our General Education: How it Works page.
Fall Semester
Religious Studies majors are NOT part of the Block Scheduling program for first-year students in the Fall 2023 semester. This means that you must register yourself into your recommended major courses listed below. You can then build the rest of your schedule around these required major courses.
FFC 100D - You Choose!
Credits: 3
All first-year students at Chapman have to take First Year Foundations. The class will introduce you to college and there is a different topic for every major. As a Religious Studies major, you must select an FFC 100D option from the Wilkinson College - Engaging the World category.
REL 115 - Living Religions of the World (Fulfills GE categories SI, VI, or GC)
Credits: 3
Note: If you are unable to register for REL 115 in the fall semester, please contact the department chair, Dr. Nancy Martin for assistance.
GE class or Minor Exploration class
Credits: 3
GE class or Minor Exploration class
Credits: 3
GE class or Minor Exploration class
Credits: 3
Spring Semester
REL 130 - The Study of Religion (Fulfills GE category SI)
Credits: 3
Note: If you are unable to register for REL 130 in the spring semester, please contact the department chair, Dr. Nancy Martin for assistance.
REL course- 100 or 200 level
Credits: 3
Note: Students may want to consider taking REL 125 - Global Ethics and Religion (fulfills GE categories SI, VI, or GC) and/or REL 120 - Philosophy of Religion (fulfills GE categories SI, VI, or GC).
GE class or Minor Exploration class
Credits: 3
GE class or Minor Exploration class
Credits: 3
GE class or Minor Exploration class
Credits: 3