Xochitl Alvizo

Welcome to the Department of Religious Studies at CSUN! 

In our department, we recognize religion as a dynamic force that shapes our culture and society—and is therefore an important subject of study. We explore how religion intersects with pressing contemporary issues, taking seriously its impact on our world, both historically and today. 

We pride ourselves on being a welcoming department where you can bring your full self, ask big questions, and explore how religion intersects with race, gender, ethics, health, social justice, and more. 

Whether you’re ready to declare a major, fulfill a GE requirement, or simply want to know more, we are genuinely invested in supporting you—both as a student and as a person. 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out or stop by. My door is always open, and I’ll be ready to welcome you with a snack! 

Dr. Xochitl Alvizo 

Chair and Professor of Religious Studies

A Religion Major That Prepares You for Any Career

Our program is designed to provide a liberal arts education with an emphasis on the critical study of religion, culture, and society. It offers an excellent basis from which to pursue careers requiring critical thinking, community engagement, problem solving, communication skills, and awareness of human diversity. Our graduates have also gone on to attend law school and other graduate programs in social work, theology and religious studies, education, and more. 

CSUN faculty approach the study of religion and religious phenomena across many contexts and disciplines, including history, anthropology, sociology, psychology, philosophy, literary theory, environmental humanities, and cognitive science. Our courses look at the role of religion in ethics, gender constructs, literature, economics, the visual arts, and numerous contemporary social and political issues. We also offer courses on various religious traditions. This cross-cultural and interdisciplinary approach emphasizes the myriad ways that religion and culture are intertwined, enabling students to better understand and appreciate diverse cultures.

Our department is non-sectarian and aims to serve all students with or without religious affiliation. Students of all religions and ethnic backgrounds are welcome to enroll in Religious Studies courses.

Religious Studies Events

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Religious Studies News

News
Claire White in DW

September 11, 2026

Professor Claire White was recently interviewed by DW

Professor Claire White was recently interviewed by DW (Deutsche Welle), Germany’s international broadcaster...

CASUAL CONVERSATION WITH VEN. POMNYUN SUNIM

September 9, 2026

Casual Conversation with Ven. Pomnyun Sunim

Bring your Question. Leave with Insight. Sponsored by the Department of Religious Studies at CSUN and Jungto ...

Melissa Basura

August 27, 2026

Congratulations to Melissa Basura

Congratulations to Melissa Basura, a senior and a double major in Religious Studies and Psychology for h...

Your Religion Education Starts Here

The Religious Studies program offers a supportive learning community where students and professors know each other’s names and students are supported through personalized advising, graduate school guidance, and career support. Book an advisement appointment today to learn how a Religious Studies degree can support your educational and professional goals.

Why Major in Religion Studies

5 Reasons to Major in Religions Studies

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Department Chair

Dr. Xochitl Alvizo

Santa Susana Hall 224
18111 Nordhoff Street
Northridge, CA 91330-8316

Monday - Friday 
8 AM to 5 PM

  • Phone: 818-677-3392

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