About

The GW Department of Religion examines many faiths and encourages students to develop academically as individuals and as part of a larger intellectual community. Whether their interests lie in Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism or a combination of these, students will be engaged in new perspectives and connected with a vibrant community of peers and faculty mentors.

Our award-winning faculty are prolific authors of books and articles in publications around the world. They teach a broad range of religious and historical topics, across undergraduate and graduate levels.

 


Connect With Our Community

 

 


Why Study Religion at GW?

 

 

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., GW offers students unparalleled access to a wide range of religious and cultural institutions and opportunities.

  • GW’s campus is walking distance from a range of U.S. government agencies, think tanks, NGOs, national American-Muslim organizations and research centers like the Library of Congress.
  • The greater Washington area is home to large Muslim and Jewish communities.
  • In addition to our esteemed faculty, the department often invites guest lecturers including noted diplomats and spiritual leaders.
  • Career advancement opportunities are available to employees of government and international agencies whose work involves the Islamic world and who wish to deepen their understanding of the languages and cultures within it.

 

Interior of the Library of Congress with huge shelves of books

 

The U.S. Library of Congress is the largest library in the world.


Our History

The Religion Department at the George Washington University was founded in 1947. Read more about our history and ongoing work.

Black and white photo of 2147 F St from the year 1942
The Religion Department building at 2147 F St. NW, pictured in this archival photo from 1942, was once the family home of writer Helen Vogt.
 
Picture of the exterior brick building at 2147 F St.
The offices at 2147 F St. NW today.
 

 


"The greatest strength of the Religion Department is the immense depth of knowledge and exceptional teaching ability of its faculty. The religion professors were genuinely the best professors I had across the board during my time at GW."

Drew Keavany
BA '19