CAHSS Student Helped Launch a New Program in Religious Studies and Expanded Her Worldview

When Amelia Broderick King first mentioned her interest in a 4+1 program, which allows students to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years at the University of Denver (DU), faculty in the Department of Religious Studies weren't sure if it was possible. To Broderick King’s surprise, no such program yet existed within the department.  

After transferring to DU in 2023, Broderick King spent a year working with Christy Cobb, assistant professor of Christianity, to make the program a reality. Their efforts not only shaped Broderick King’s own academic path but also created new opportunities for future students in the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences (CAHSS) who may want to pursue an accelerated program in religious studies. 

For Broderick King, the decision to pursue the 4+1 program was both practical and personal. It allowed her to continue the momentum of her studies, both as an undergraduate and graduate student, while saving time and money. A senior majoring in religious studies with a minor in art history, she found the program to be an ideal fit. 

“Religious studies is a perfect blend of philosophy, history and anthropology,” she said. “It also connects with art and psychology, representing a lot of different areas.” 

Her art history minor, she explained, offered a natural intersection with her religious studies work: “Art depicts how culture and people’s values have changed over time,” Broderick King said. “It’s also one of the best ways to perceive religion. I found it fascinating to see how much art is derived from religion.” 

Through her courses, Broderick King has studied the “big five religions” — Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Judaism — and says the experience has broadened her perspectives exponentially. 

“All religions have their own set of beliefs and texts, but they share connections that are part of being human,” she said. “Being able to compare and contrast religions with professors who encourage that type of exploration has made me see the world differently. It helps me understand history in a much deeper way.” 

Beyond expanding her worldview, the 4+1 program has given Broderick King the confidence to engage with others on meaningful topics. “I’ve gained the ability to talk to anybody about the things they hold most dearly: their beliefs,” she said. 

Looking ahead, she hopes more students across DU will consider enrolling in religious studies courses, regardless of their major or minor. Broderick King believes that if people are willing to take the first step with an entry-level class, they may realize it’s not what they expected, and that first step could open up a completely new kind of thinking, as it did for her. 

Outside of the classroom, Broderick King works as a student employee in the Department of Religious Studies, where she collaborates with faculty and attends CAHSS events. She also serves as a Resident Mentor on campus; a role she says has been enriched by her academic work and her newfound ability to authentically connect with others about their beliefs and values.  

After completing the 4+1 program, Broderick King hopes to pursue a doctoral degree and teach in higher education, where she can share her passion and help future students deepen their understanding of religion and humanity. 

By helping create the 4+1 program in religious studies, Broderick King shaped her own future and the futures of other students who come after her. The program reflects DU’s commitment to innovation, interdisciplinary learning and student-driven opportunities, ensuring that students in CAHSS can pursue their passions while preparing for meaningful careers and advanced study. Learn more about the 4+1 program here.