The academic study of Religious studies addresses many dimensions and functions in the world’s cultures. Among these are sacred scripture, symbols, beliefs, rituals and ethics. It also examines the dynamic relationship between Religion and other socio- economic, and political institutions. The academic study of religion fosters a critical understanding of religious traditions, issues, questions, and values. In addition, it cultivates awareness of religion’s influence within the world and promotes appreciation for the diversity of religious beliefs and practices.
The RTS Bachelor of Arts (BA) program in Religious studies has been given full Accreditation by National Universities Commission (NUC) in collaboration with the University of Calabar. The RTS BA Degree offers excellent preparation for professional work in education, law, public service, government, research, and religion. It is a degree program not meant for ordination. Thus, candidates must fulfill all the requirements including offering of the required courses for the degree before they graduate. It is a four (4) year academic program.
An applicant who seeks to enroll for Bachelor of Arts (B A) Religious Studies of the University of Calabar must follow this procedure.
On admission, the Seminary usually expects all fresh students to complete their registration forms and all other forms prior to the time of registration. On arrival on the campus, fresh students are required to pay their fees and endorse the registration forms which are available in the Registry. Only those students who are dully registered are admitted into halls of residence and allowed to enjoy facilities in the Seminary. Details of the registration procedure are enumerated in the Rules and Regulations.
Orientation course is organised to enable students become used to and familiar with their new environment. It is organised for all new students to the Seminary and usually takes place in the first week or two of the new session. Students visit places like the Library and the Medical Clinic. Lectures are organised on general and special topics such as Examination malpractice, homosexuality and Cultism. They are also exposed to effective use of the Library and the Students’ Rules and Regulations of the Seminary.
There are five main objectives of the orientation course which are:
Only those who have satisfied the minimum educational requirements of the Reformed Theological Seminary, Mkar are admitted as students. Such students are eventually inducted as students of the Seminary at a ceremony presided by the Rector. This ceremony takes place after the Registration and Orientation exercises. During the Matriculation ceremony, the Dean of Academics presents the students for matriculation while the Registrar reads out the Matriculation Oath. Students are made to “Solemnly undertake and swear to observe and respect the provisions of the Reformed Theological Seminary, Mkar Rules and Regulations made thereunder, which are in force and which shall from time to time be brought to force”. Thereafter, the Matriculants sign the Matriculation Register.