<p>I just recently started looking at Georgetown, because its location in D.C. would be really good for my intended career, and it is supposed to be an excellent college.</p>
<p>However, it is a Jesuit school, and I take that to mean that it is very religious. So could any current students tell me: Are there any religious requirements for attendance?</p>
<p>By this, I mean are their required church services, religious classes, etc? I'm an atheist, and would be willing to overlook the fact that it is a religious institution, but I'm not sure if I would be willing to put up with religious requirements.</p>
<p>There are two required theology classes, but they aren’t restricted to Christianity. I’m an atheist, and don’t care. I’ll take one on Buddhism or something.</p>
<p>Right, two theology classes. The first one pretty much has to be The Problem of God (unless you want to take Intro to Biblical Literature, which it doesn’t sound like you would). Do a bit of research on the Problem of God professors and I’m sure you’ll find a section that interests you. My professor claimed to be a modern-day Druid (they don’t do human sacrifices anymore, indeed they’re very humanist!). We covered a wide range of things, from Catholic saints’ cults to Appalachian snakehandlers to Jim Jones and the Guyana/Kool-Ade drinkers to Buddhism.</p>
<p>The second theology course has to be an intermediate level elective; you can find course schedules on the Registrar’s website: [University</a> Registrar - University Registrar](<a href=“http://registrar.georgetown.edu%5DUniversity”>http://registrar.georgetown.edu)</p>
<p>Something like “Political Theology” or “Religion and Science” would likely be more up your alley. Beyond that, while it is a Catholic school and religion is a part of a fair number of students’ lives (certainly not just Catholics), I never felt unwelcome or put out as a non-believer.</p>
<p>Thanks a ton! It is very reassuring that religious classes are the only thing required. More than that, it is exciting that they don’t have to be limited to just Catholicism. </p>
<p>Since both of you come from the same position as me, it definitely is reassuring to know that other non-believers feel welcome. I’m definitely going to give Georgetown a lot of thought. Thanks!</p>
<p>I’m “drawn” to it (although that really isn’t the right word) because it would be a good school for what I want to do. It is also in the center of the nations capital, which would definitely bolster the chances of someone looking into politics/law at getting internships and the like. It just happens to be a religious institution.</p>
<p>" . . . However, it is a Jesuit school, and I take that to mean that it is very religious. "</p>
<p>NOT!
Georgetown is not a very religious school. You would have little trouble trying to find some Catholics to hang out with and discuss issues, if that is what you were into, but that is not at all the vibe on the campus.</p>
<p>The Jesuits have a centuries old tradition of educating people of all faiths. Take a look at the Thoelogy class options you will have from which to choose - amazingly diverse options. Most of these classes are more a kin to Philosophy and History and there is no effort to convert anybody.</p>
<p>All of this has been very reassuring. I don’t have a problem with religion or anything, I just wouldn’t want to go somewhere in which beliefs are shoved down my throat. But Georgetown seems to be open minded. It definitely has gone towards the top of my list.</p>