Background and Establishment

The College of Religious Studies is the first academic institution in Thailand dedicated exclusively to religious studies and is an academic unit of Mahidol University. The College was officially established on January 1, 1999, during the presidency of Professor Arthit Ourairat, M.D., President of Mahidol University at that time.

The College evolved from the Religious Studies Center Project at Mahidol University, which was jointly founded in 1997 by Mahidol University and Dr. Arawan Khunwisa, Chairperson of the Namtong Khunwisa Foundation, under the Office of the President.

The College is located in the Namtong Khunwisa Building, opposite the Faculty of Veterinary Science at Mahidol University, Salaya Campus. The five-story building is designed to be open and airy. Each floor provides designated spaces for discussion and informal academic exchange, surrounded by landscaped flower gardens. At the center of the building is a green courtyard with benches beneath large trees, while the surrounding area is filled with mature trees that create a calm and conducive academic environment.

Teaching and Learning Approach

Religious studies at the College are conducted through a combination of classroom instruction, small group discussions, and independent research. Students are encouraged to explore knowledge both in the library and within communities of different religious traditions. Learning activities emphasize both individual study and collaborative group work.

In addition to religious studies, students have opportunities to study general education courses offered by Mahidol University, as well as other subjects that are beneficial for professional development and everyday life in 21st-century society. These include courses in science, computer studies, and English language studies, among others.