Why Iowa?

Learn to think, write, and speak with care about sensitive topics involving religious and cultural differences—and do it at Iowa where writing is the bedrock of what we do.

Develop a deeper understanding

Advance your scholarly work

Learn from experts across fields

See yourself here

Be part of a community of students interested in exploring religion intellectually and culturally. Tap into Iowa's writing and research infrastructure and work with faculty to publish knowledge and findings.

Gisell Torres portrait

 

"Having great professors in the Religious Studies department has been such an enriching experience. The curriculum is diverse, delving into the complexities of worldwide belief systems and deepening my understanding of other cultures and perspectives." 

- Gisell Torres

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Join a network of graduates who have gone on to pursue exciting careers in law, health care, business, community, academia, and more. You'll leave this program a more nuanced thinker with a deep understanding of how religion impacts our world.

News and announcements

donated food and lecture

Small Bites, big impact: Religious Studies hosts an interactive pop-up food drive

Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Through a series of five-minute presentations on cultural foods and their meaning and use in different religions, students and faculty from the department broke bread to support the community.
Professor Jay Holstein poses in front of a bookshelf

A former student remembers Jay Holstein

Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Brandon Dean in front of a church

Religious Studies faculty member brings students and community together through public engagement work

Monday, October 20, 2025
Brandon Dean, assistant professor of instruction in the Department of Religious Studies, blends his interests of religion and popular culture into engaging public events. Dean is also the head of the Church Crawl, a lived learning experiment in which he invites his undergraduates to attend diverse religious services across Iowa City.

Events

Faith on the Plate promotional image

Faith on the Plate

Thursday, January 22, 2026 6:00pm
Phillips Hall
Explore the intersection of religion and cuisine, guided by Christina Ward's book "Holy Food"
Faith on the Plate promotional image

Faith on the Plate

Thursday, February 5, 2026 6:00pm
Phillips Hall
Explore the intersection of religion and cuisine, guided by Christina Ward's book "Holy Food"
Faith on the Plate promotional image

Faith on the Plate

Thursday, February 19, 2026 6:00pm
Phillips Hall
Explore the intersection of religion and cuisine, guided by Christina Ward's book "Holy Food"
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