Philosophy and Religious Studies
Division: Humanities, Social and Behavioral Science
Division Chair: Martha Rottman, mrottman@sunyrockland.edu
Department Chair Katherine Lynch, klynch8@sunyrockland.edu
Department Support Staff: Andrea Narcisco, anarciso@sunyrockland.edu
Department Office: Academic II, Room 2150, Phone: 845-574-4326
Why Study Philosophy and Religious Studies?
By studying philosophy, students will examine and develop perspectives on the nature of the universe, self and society. The discipline stimulates and broadens one’s interest in the fundamental questions and mysteries that have always fascinated the human mind.
Part of understanding today’s global society is an understanding of the diverse religious cultures throughout the world. Courses in religious studies explore the areas of humanity, tradition, cultures and comprehensive worldviews.
Students interested in a degree in Philosophy or Religious Studies can begin their educational goals by pursuing the Liberal Arts and Science: Humanities and Social Science degree at Rockland Community College.
For more information please contact the Division Chair of Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences.
Occupational Objectives:
Students who wish to pursue a career in philosophy or religious studies can continue their education by transferring to a four-year institution. Upon completion of their education, students can obtain positions in education, law, public administration, ministry and other related areas.
5 Top Reasons
To Study Philosophy and Religious Studies at RCC:
- FACULTY: Learn from instructors with the rare combination of practical work experience in the field and advanced academic degrees.
- VALUE: Affordable tuition for a quality education. Scholarships, financial aid.
- CONVENIENT: Balance part-time study with work, family or other time commitments. On-campus childcare available.
- TRANSFER: Agreements with many four-year colleges for seamless transfer to pursue multiple bachelor’s degree options.
- SUPPORT: Small class sizes, individual attention, free tutoring.
Opportunities at Rockland Community College:
There are more than 40 student clubs with special interests and socializing opportunities. Activities include sports, student government and clubs like Robotics, Video Game & Animé, Chess, Computers, Art, Christian Fellowship, Environment, Haitian, Habitat for Humanity, Hillel, and Outlook, the award-winning student newspaper.
Discipline Goals:
The philosophy and religious studies discipline will provide students with the ability to understand, define and analyze the concept of morality, ethics, aspects of the human experience, and the relationship between traditions and culture.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of courses in philosophy and religious studies, students will be able to:
- Understand the perspectives and worldviews of philosophical and religious traditions from different cultures and civilizations
- Understand how philosophy and religious studies relate to the individual and society
- Understand the social, political and cultural issues in today’s global society
- Demonstrate critical thinking skills
- Demonstrate an understanding of diverse points of view and independent thinking
- Demonstrate command of research skills