Religion Courses
Please note that the frequency of course offerings below is subject to change without notice, because of changes in faculty availability, sabbaticals and leaves, and other circumstances. Please consult the latest Schedule of Classes (and supplement), myBerea, revisions to online Catalog & Student Handbook, and/or the Program Coordinator to determine if a course will be offered during a certain term or year, especially if Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is a factor.
REL 100
Religion in Global Context
Offered: Typically Annually.
An introduction to the academic study of religion. The course aims for students to understand religion as a core element in human culture, life, and experience, by perceiving both its diverse forms and shared dimensions across cultures and eras of human history. Through studies of selected religious communities and traditions of primarily non-Western origins, this course will examine definitions of and approaches to the study of religion, as well as key components and dimensions in religions and religious experience, such as sacred space and time, ritual and worship, sacred texts, traditions, and narratives, moral practices and codes, the nature of community and social structures, beliefs, and worldviews. Reading and discussing selected scholarly analyses of religion from a variety of disciplinary perspectives (humanities, natural sciences, social sciences) will accompany studies of materials from various selected global religious traditions. This course does not assume prior study of religion or religions. Religion Perspective and International (Non-Western) Perspective.
1 Course Credit
An introduction to the academic study of religion. The course aims for students to understand religion as a core element in human culture, life, and experience, by perceiving both its diverse forms and shared dimensions across cultures and eras of human history. Through studies of selected religious communities and traditions of primarily non-Western origins, this course will examine definitions of and approaches to the study of religion, as well as key components and dimensions in religions and religious experience, such as sacred space and time, ritual and worship, sacred texts, traditions, and narratives, moral practices and codes, the nature of community and social structures, beliefs, and worldviews. Reading and discussing selected scholarly analyses of religion from a variety of disciplinary perspectives (humanities, natural sciences, social sciences) will accompany studies of materials from various selected global religious traditions. This course does not assume prior study of religion or religions. Religion Perspective and International (Non-Western) Perspective.
1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 101
Wrestling with God:Intro Scrip
Offered: Typically annually
An inquiry into the basic stories and their texts in the Old and New Testaments. The course will investigate 'Wrestling with God' as a dominant narrative theme in biblical literature. Assignments emphasize class reading of texts, several short essays, and preparation of a course workbook. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
An inquiry into the basic stories and their texts in the Old and New Testaments. The course will investigate 'Wrestling with God' as a dominant narrative theme in biblical literature. Assignments emphasize class reading of texts, several short essays, and preparation of a course workbook. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 107
Intro to the New Testament
Offered: Typically annually
A survey of the literature, religion, and social history of the early Christian movement, using modern historical-critical methods. Attention to understanding how the early Church's worship, teaching, and proclamation shaped the New Testament. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
A survey of the literature, religion, and social history of the early Christian movement, using modern historical-critical methods. Attention to understanding how the early Church's worship, teaching, and proclamation shaped the New Testament. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 109
Intro to Christian Thought
Offered: Typically annually
A study of the basic Christian practices, beliefs, teachings, and concepts: God, creation, human nature, sin, evil, Christ, salvation, Holy Spirit, community or church, sacraments, ministry, Christian life and morality, last things, scripture, etc. This course will examine both the variety of Christian perspectives on, and the web of relationships between, these various beliefs and practices. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
A study of the basic Christian practices, beliefs, teachings, and concepts: God, creation, human nature, sin, evil, Christ, salvation, Holy Spirit, community or church, sacraments, ministry, Christian life and morality, last things, scripture, etc. This course will examine both the variety of Christian perspectives on, and the web of relationships between, these various beliefs and practices. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 117
Intro to World Religions
Offered: Next in Spring 2013
An examination of various religions with respect to selected themes, such as apocalyticism, sacred space, rites and worship, sacred texts and literature, culture and codes for living, and understandings of the divine. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective. 1 Course Credit
An examination of various religions with respect to selected themes, such as apocalyticism, sacred space, rites and worship, sacred texts and literature, culture and codes for living, and understandings of the divine. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 126
Poverty and Justice
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2013-2014)
A study of poverty and homelessness in Appalachia and the world in light of empirical evidence, sacred texts, and social and theological approaches to economic justice, combining experiential and theoretical learning to help students develop an understanding of economic injustice. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
A study of poverty and homelessness in Appalachia and the world in light of empirical evidence, sacred texts, and social and theological approaches to economic justice, combining experiential and theoretical learning to help students develop an understanding of economic injustice. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 132
Religions of China (AST)
Offered: Typically alternate years (offered Fall 2012)
A study of the principal religious traditions of China: Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism. The course includes readings in the classical primary texts of each tradition as well as attention to ritual and practice. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective 1 Course Credit
A study of the principal religious traditions of China: Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism. The course includes readings in the classical primary texts of each tradition as well as attention to ritual and practice. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 135
Religions of Japan (AST)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2013)
A study of the principal religious traditions of Japan: Buddhism, Confucianism, and Shint'. The course includes readings in the classical primary texts of each tradition as well as attention to ritual and practice. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective. 1 Course Credit
A study of the principal religious traditions of Japan: Buddhism, Confucianism, and Shint'. The course includes readings in the classical primary texts of each tradition as well as attention to ritual and practice. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 136
Afr. Traditional Religion(AFR)
Offered: Typically, alternate years.
An introduction to African traditional religion within its cultural contexts and its interactions with Christianity, Islam, and other worldviews in Africa. The course studies the nature and structure of African traditional cultures and religion. The course includes both theoretical and experiential approaches to understanding the religious and cultural traditions of the African continent, particularly Sub-Saharan Africa. Through the following topics, the course explores various facets of African traditional religion: its characteristics and sources, social organization and groupings, practices, rituals, philosophies, texts, symbols, world-views, concepts of sacred reality, basic values, religious leadership (such as, priesthood), the roles of women, understanding of mystical forces, religious experience, divination, ethics, death, and afterlife. The course also examines the influence of African traditional religion on Islam and Christianity in Africa, on the one hand, and forms that African traditional religion have taken in modern and contemporary Africa, as well as in communities of the African diaspora, on the other hand. This course provides a broader context for understanding the African diaspora as it appears among African Americans in the United States. Religion Perspective and International (Non-Western) Perspective.
1 Course Credit
An introduction to African traditional religion within its cultural contexts and its interactions with Christianity, Islam, and other worldviews in Africa. The course studies the nature and structure of African traditional cultures and religion. The course includes both theoretical and experiential approaches to understanding the religious and cultural traditions of the African continent, particularly Sub-Saharan Africa. Through the following topics, the course explores various facets of African traditional religion: its characteristics and sources, social organization and groupings, practices, rituals, philosophies, texts, symbols, world-views, concepts of sacred reality, basic values, religious leadership (such as, priesthood), the roles of women, understanding of mystical forces, religious experience, divination, ethics, death, and afterlife. The course also examines the influence of African traditional religion on Islam and Christianity in Africa, on the one hand, and forms that African traditional religion have taken in modern and contemporary Africa, as well as in communities of the African diaspora, on the other hand. This course provides a broader context for understanding the African diaspora as it appears among African Americans in the United States. Religion Perspective and International (Non-Western) Perspective.
1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 186
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
REL 200
Myth, Symbol, Ritual
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver) or permission of instructor
Offered: Typically annually
An introduction to the academic study of religions, including interactions of myths, symbols, and rituals within religions, examinations of texts and literature, and considerations of cultural settings for religious belief and practice. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically annually
An introduction to the academic study of religions, including interactions of myths, symbols, and rituals within religions, examinations of texts and literature, and considerations of cultural settings for religious belief and practice. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 202
Christians & Pagans
Prerequisite: GSTR 210
Offered: Typically alternate Spring Terms (next offered Spring 2013)
An introduction to the political, social, cultural and religious world of late antiquity (c. AD 250-750), with particular attention to the emergence of Christianity and Islam in the context of the religious and philosophical diversity of the period. Western History Perspective and Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate Spring Terms (next offered Spring 2013)
An introduction to the political, social, cultural and religious world of late antiquity (c. AD 250-750), with particular attention to the emergence of Christianity and Islam in the context of the religious and philosophical diversity of the period. Western History Perspective and Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 205
Introduction to Old Testament
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically annually
A survey of the literature, religion, and social history of ancient Israel, using modern historical-critical methods. Attention to understanding the Old Testament within the context of the history and culture of the ancient Near East. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically annually
A survey of the literature, religion, and social history of ancient Israel, using modern historical-critical methods. Attention to understanding the Old Testament within the context of the history and culture of the ancient Near East. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 207
Intro to the New Testament
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically annually
A survey of the literature, religion, and social history of the early Christian movement, using modern historical-critical methods. Attention to understanding how the early Church's worship, teaching, and proclamation shaped the New Testament. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically annually
A survey of the literature, religion, and social history of the early Christian movement, using modern historical-critical methods. Attention to understanding how the early Church's worship, teaching, and proclamation shaped the New Testament. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 209
The Guilty Vicarage
Prerequisites: GSTR 210
Summer Course Only
Course Desciption: Mysteries of the 20th and 21st centuries that revolve around clergy, churches, and notions of the divine. Special attention will be paid to how these mysteries important theological themes from the Bible, The Apostles' Creed, and The Rule of Faith.
Summer Course Only
Course Desciption: Mysteries of the 20th and 21st centuries that revolve around clergy, churches, and notions of the divine. Special attention will be paid to how these mysteries important theological themes from the Bible, The Apostles' Creed, and The Rule of Faith.
1 Course Credit
REL 210
Theology in Arts and Media
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
An examination of literary and artistic expressions of theological themes, such as creation, the human condition, and justification. Attention to texts and thought, creative dimensions, and examples of literary, artistic, and musical reinterpretations of themes. Arts Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
An examination of literary and artistic expressions of theological themes, such as creation, the human condition, and justification. Attention to texts and thought, creative dimensions, and examples of literary, artistic, and musical reinterpretations of themes. Arts Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 211
Women in Religion (WST)
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2014-2015)
A study of the teachings on and participation of women in religion, as well as a study of the status and roles of women in several religious traditions, such as Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, or indigenous religious traditions. Religion Perspective and African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2014-2015)
A study of the teachings on and participation of women in religion, as well as a study of the status and roles of women in several religious traditions, such as Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, or indigenous religious traditions. Religion Perspective and African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 212
Religion, Rhetoric, & Rational
Prerequisites: GSTR 110
Offered: Typically, alternate years.
An introduction to historical and contemporary interactions among religion, rhetoric, and rationality. This course comparatively examines the nature and function of reason or rationality in religions and religious experience themselves, as well as the encounters of the religions and religious experience with various major philosophical and scientific forms of rationality. The course considers the nature and mediating role of rhetoric, as a theory of communication, in the interactions among diverse religious, philosophical, and scientific approaches to and accounts of reality, with particular attention to discourses of both domination and emancipation and how such usage of language affects and shapes discussions and disagreements about religious practices, claims, beliefs, themes, questions, and issues. This course investigates that web of relationships through various possible selected topics: the nature of religious experience and religious language; classical and contemporary concepts of and discussions about the reality and nature of sacred reality; competing cosmologies; the nature of the human self; the question of human freedom; religion and moral experience; traditional and revised formulations of the problem of evil; religion and science; the character and issues of religious pluralism; etc. Religion Perspective.
1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically, alternate years.
An introduction to historical and contemporary interactions among religion, rhetoric, and rationality. This course comparatively examines the nature and function of reason or rationality in religions and religious experience themselves, as well as the encounters of the religions and religious experience with various major philosophical and scientific forms of rationality. The course considers the nature and mediating role of rhetoric, as a theory of communication, in the interactions among diverse religious, philosophical, and scientific approaches to and accounts of reality, with particular attention to discourses of both domination and emancipation and how such usage of language affects and shapes discussions and disagreements about religious practices, claims, beliefs, themes, questions, and issues. This course investigates that web of relationships through various possible selected topics: the nature of religious experience and religious language; classical and contemporary concepts of and discussions about the reality and nature of sacred reality; competing cosmologies; the nature of the human self; the question of human freedom; religion and moral experience; traditional and revised formulations of the problem of evil; religion and science; the character and issues of religious pluralism; etc. Religion Perspective.
1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 215
His Christianity to 1600(HIS)
Prerequisite: GSTR 210
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2013-2014)
A general survey of the development of Christianity from apostolic times through the 16th-century Reformations. Emphasis is on Western Christianity, the development of beliefs, practices, and institutions, and Christianity's interaction with society and culture. Religion Perspective and Western History Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2013-2014)
A general survey of the development of Christianity from apostolic times through the 16th-century Reformations. Emphasis is on Western Christianity, the development of beliefs, practices, and institutions, and Christianity's interaction with society and culture. Religion Perspective and Western History Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 218
Voices of Nonviolence
Prerequisite: GSTR 210
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2013-2014 )
An introduction to the experience of nonviolence as expressed in the lives and religious writings of figures such as Mubarak Awad, Dorothy Day, Mahatma Gandhi, Thich Nhat Hanh, Ghaffar Khan, Chan Khong, Martin Luther King Jr., and Jean Vanier. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2013-2014 )
An introduction to the experience of nonviolence as expressed in the lives and religious writings of figures such as Mubarak Awad, Dorothy Day, Mahatma Gandhi, Thich Nhat Hanh, Ghaffar Khan, Chan Khong, Martin Luther King Jr., and Jean Vanier. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 221
Reformation & Its Legacies
Prerequisite: GSTR 210 or permission of instructor
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014 )
Introductory study of the Christian theology and ethics of the Protestant Christian Reformations (1517-1650) and their legacies in modernity, post-modernity, and today. Examination of representative doctrinal, moral, social, and political issues; of the lives and teachings of various reformers; and of distinctive Protestant moral and doctrinal teachings as various Christian communities that have sought to reform Christianity in response to the challenges and change in the modern and postmodern worlds. Religion Perspective and Western History Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014 )
Introductory study of the Christian theology and ethics of the Protestant Christian Reformations (1517-1650) and their legacies in modernity, post-modernity, and today. Examination of representative doctrinal, moral, social, and political issues; of the lives and teachings of various reformers; and of distinctive Protestant moral and doctrinal teachings as various Christian communities that have sought to reform Christianity in response to the challenges and change in the modern and postmodern worlds. Religion Perspective and Western History Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 223
Theologies of Liberation (WST)
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
An exploration of the rise of political liberation theology movements and their critiques of and novel contributions to traditional expressions of Christian theology. Focus on understandings of theory and praxis, race, gender, class dimensions of social analysis, and re-constructions of the concepts of Christ and God. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
An exploration of the rise of political liberation theology movements and their critiques of and novel contributions to traditional expressions of Christian theology. Focus on understandings of theory and praxis, race, gender, class dimensions of social analysis, and re-constructions of the concepts of Christ and God. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 225
Images of Jesus
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
An examination of the life and thought of Jesus through study of the Gospels and contemporary historical texts. Exploration of continuing influence of Jesus by study of various forms of art and literature. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
An examination of the life and thought of Jesus through study of the Gospels and contemporary historical texts. Exploration of continuing influence of Jesus by study of various forms of art and literature. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 227
Biblical Themes, Modern Life
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
A thematically organized approach to studying biblical texts. Attention to ways the Bible may inform theological reflections on selected issues of modern life, such as creation and the environment, social justice, civil discourse, gender, and race, among others. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
A thematically organized approach to studying biblical texts. Attention to ways the Bible may inform theological reflections on selected issues of modern life, such as creation and the environment, social justice, civil discourse, gender, and race, among others. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 228
The Bible, His., & Archeology
Prerequisite: GSTR 110
Offered: Typically, alternate years.
An introduction to the archeology of the Ancient Near East and its implications for and impact upon contemporary academic studies of Jewish and Christian scriptures. This course will consider the geographical and temporal scope of the ancient Near East, the history of the civilizations that developed in the region and timeframe, the history and methods of Near-Eastern archaeology, and ways in which the results of Near-Eastern archaeology have significance for academic studies of Jewish and Christian scriptures. The course will examine ways in which archeology illuminates academic studies of Jewish and Christian sacred texts. Religion Perspective.
1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically, alternate years.
An introduction to the archeology of the Ancient Near East and its implications for and impact upon contemporary academic studies of Jewish and Christian scriptures. This course will consider the geographical and temporal scope of the ancient Near East, the history of the civilizations that developed in the region and timeframe, the history and methods of Near-Eastern archaeology, and ways in which the results of Near-Eastern archaeology have significance for academic studies of Jewish and Christian scriptures. The course will examine ways in which archeology illuminates academic studies of Jewish and Christian sacred texts. Religion Perspective.
1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 235
Christian Social Ethics
Prerequisite: GSTR 210
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
An introduction to methods and resources for ethical analysis, as well as an examination of the basic elements of Christian ethical reflection and a variety of ethical perspectives for decision-making. Special attention will be given to the correlation of theological and biblical insights with contemporary personal and social issues. Religion Perspective and Practical Reasoning (PR). 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
An introduction to methods and resources for ethical analysis, as well as an examination of the basic elements of Christian ethical reflection and a variety of ethical perspectives for decision-making. Special attention will be given to the correlation of theological and biblical insights with contemporary personal and social issues. Religion Perspective and Practical Reasoning (PR). 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 236
Mid East Cultures:Rel & (HIS)
An examination of Middle Eastern Culture in all of its breadth and depth. Basic Islamic doctrine and ritual will be covered on campus before departure. Special attention will be given to the historical development of religious traditions which are still alive today in the places that we will visit. The rich remains of Islamic architecture and art will be studied, and students will be exposed to the diversity of cultural expressions in a predominantly Muslim society. In other words, this course focuses on the Living Islam of Middle East, past and present. In addition to Muslim communities, various ancient Christian traditions that exist in living communities in the Middle East will also be studied. The cultures and arts of these communities will be examined.
1 Course Credit
REL 240
Islam (HIS)
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2014-2015)
An examination of the doctrine, ritual, jurisprudence, and historical vision of Islam with an emphasis on historical and contemporary expressions of Islam. Special attention will be given to the historical origins of religious traditions which still are alive today, namely Sunni, Shi'ite, and Sufi Islam, as well as the central features of Islamic theology and practice, including the Qur'an, the Hadith (the Traditions), legal reasoning, and Tafsir (Qur'an interpretation). Students study modern political and social expressions of Islam, including the political Islamic movements, popular piety, and women in Muslim society. The interrelations of Islamic traditions with Christian and Jewish traditions also will be studied. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective.
1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2014-2015)
An examination of the doctrine, ritual, jurisprudence, and historical vision of Islam with an emphasis on historical and contemporary expressions of Islam. Special attention will be given to the historical origins of religious traditions which still are alive today, namely Sunni, Shi'ite, and Sufi Islam, as well as the central features of Islamic theology and practice, including the Qur'an, the Hadith (the Traditions), legal reasoning, and Tafsir (Qur'an interpretation). Students study modern political and social expressions of Islam, including the political Islamic movements, popular piety, and women in Muslim society. The interrelations of Islamic traditions with Christian and Jewish traditions also will be studied. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective.
1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 250
Judaism
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow (next offered Spring 2014)
Survey of the literature, thought, and culture of Judaism in its various periods. Emphasis placed on the literature of rabbinical Judaism and on those genre of literature which reinterpret Judaism in its cultural and historical contexts. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow (next offered Spring 2014)
Survey of the literature, thought, and culture of Judaism in its various periods. Emphasis placed on the literature of rabbinical Judaism and on those genre of literature which reinterpret Judaism in its cultural and historical contexts. Religion Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 260
Buddhism (AST)
Prerequisite: GSTR 110 (or waiver)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
A study of the history and diversity of Buddhist traditions, from the time of the Buddha in 5th-century BCE India to contemporary Buddhist communities in Asia and the West. Special attention will be given to the problems and prospects of Buddhism in relation to contemporary issues, such as gender and sexuality, ecological change, and the relationship between religion and politics. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) Component of the International Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
A study of the history and diversity of Buddhist traditions, from the time of the Buddha in 5th-century BCE India to contemporary Buddhist communities in Asia and the West. Special attention will be given to the problems and prospects of Buddhism in relation to contemporary issues, such as gender and sexuality, ecological change, and the relationship between religion and politics. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) Component of the International Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 286
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
REL 308
Themes in Asian Tradition(AST)
Prerequisite: One AST course
Offered: Typically every other Spring Term (next offered Spring 2013)
A close study of selected texts, practices, or experiences of one or more Asian religious traditions. May be repeated for credit, provided topic varies from that studied previously. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) Component of the International Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every other Spring Term (next offered Spring 2013)
A close study of selected texts, practices, or experiences of one or more Asian religious traditions. May be repeated for credit, provided topic varies from that studied previously. Religion Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) Component of the International Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 309
Themes in Abrahamic Traditions
Prerequisite: One 200-level REL course
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2013-2014)
A thematic and comparative study of the theologies, beliefs, and practices of three religions sharing roots in the figure of Abraham' Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Attention to the roles of revelation and sacred text, monotheistic ideals, structures of authority, worship and ritual, ethical formation, and relation of the faiths to material culture and political order. Religion Perspective 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2013-2014)
A thematic and comparative study of the theologies, beliefs, and practices of three religions sharing roots in the figure of Abraham' Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Attention to the roles of revelation and sacred text, monotheistic ideals, structures of authority, worship and ritual, ethical formation, and relation of the faiths to material culture and political order. Religion Perspective 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 310
Advanced Old Testament Studies
Prerequisite: GSTR 310 or REL 205 or REL 207
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2014)
A close study of selected legal, prophetic, or poetic books from the Old Testament period. Special attention given to the ancient Near Eastern material culture relevant to these books. Rotating topics. May be repeated for credit, provided topic varies from that studied previously. Religion Perspective 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2014)
A close study of selected legal, prophetic, or poetic books from the Old Testament period. Special attention given to the ancient Near Eastern material culture relevant to these books. Rotating topics. May be repeated for credit, provided topic varies from that studied previously. Religion Perspective 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 311
Advanced New Testament Studies
Prerequisite: REL 205 or REL 207
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2013)
A close study of selected Gospels, epistles, or apocalyptic material from the New Testament period. Special attention will be given to the influence of Greco-Roman thought and Intertestamental Judaism on early Christian writings. Rotating topics. May be repeated for credit, provided topic varies from that studied previously. Religion Perspective 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2013)
A close study of selected Gospels, epistles, or apocalyptic material from the New Testament period. Special attention will be given to the influence of Greco-Roman thought and Intertestamental Judaism on early Christian writings. Rotating topics. May be repeated for credit, provided topic varies from that studied previously. Religion Perspective 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 312
Adv Study-Rel Thought & Ethics
Prerequisite: One 200-level REL course or permission of instructor
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2013 )
An advanced study of selected texts, topics, issues, concepts, or themes in historical or contemporary religious thought and ethics. Course may be repeated for credit, provided topic varies from that studied previously. Religion Perspective 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2013 )
An advanced study of selected texts, topics, issues, concepts, or themes in historical or contemporary religious thought and ethics. Course may be repeated for credit, provided topic varies from that studied previously. Religion Perspective 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 355
Sem in American Rel Hist (HIS)
Prerequisites: HIS 161 or HIS 162 or Permissin of Instructor
A selective survey of the history of religion in North America from pre-colonial times to the present. Some of the themes explored include religion's role as a force for both national cohesion and division; the construction of--and relationship between--the sacred and the secular in American culture; the relationships between "outsider" religions and "Mainstream" religious practice; and the intersection of religion and American democracy. Noncredit for students who have completed this course as HIS 310. Religion Perspective and Western History Perspective. 1 Course Credit
A selective survey of the history of religion in North America from pre-colonial times to the present. Some of the themes explored include religion's role as a force for both national cohesion and division; the construction of--and relationship between--the sacred and the secular in American culture; the relationships between "outsider" religions and "Mainstream" religious practice; and the intersection of religion and American democracy. Noncredit for students who have completed this course as HIS 310. Religion Perspective and Western History Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 386
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
REL 390A
Independent Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
REL 390B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
REL 395
Internship
Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
1 to 3 Course Credits
REL 397A
Team Initiated Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
REL 397B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
REL 398
Directed Study
Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
1 Course Credit
REL 480
Seminar in Religion
Prerequisite: Senior standing or permission of instructor
Offered: Typically annually
This seminar will enable Religion majors to reflect on and integrate their studies within the program and the broad requirements of the core curriculum. The course also will provide opportunities for the student to take part in the interdisciplinary exploration of issues in Religious Studies. Topics considered will be chosen by the seminar in an effort to reflect the interdisciplinary nature of Religious Studies. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically annually
This seminar will enable Religion majors to reflect on and integrate their studies within the program and the broad requirements of the core curriculum. The course also will provide opportunities for the student to take part in the interdisciplinary exploration of issues in Religious Studies. Topics considered will be chosen by the seminar in an effort to reflect the interdisciplinary nature of Religious Studies. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
REL 486
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
REL 490A
Independent Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
REL 490B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
REL 495
Internship
Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
1 to 3 Course Credits
REL 497A
Team Initiated Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
REL 497B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
REL 498
Directed Study
Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
1 Course Credit
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