Religion

Examines the books of the Old Testament from historical, cultural, religious, and critical perspectives to achieve greater understanding and appreciation. Includes study of Old Testament cities and contributions of major biblical personalities. This course meets a General Education Core Curriculum requirement. Fall.

Examines the books of the New Testament from historical, cultural, religious, and critical perspectives to achieve greater understanding and appreciation. Includes study of locations of New Testament biblical cities and contributions of major biblical personalities. This course meets a General Education Core Curriculum requirement. Spring.

A historical survey of world religions of non-western traditions. Includes a study of Shinto, Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Zoroastrianism, Judaism and Islam. Fall alternate years

A survey of the major agreements on Christian doctrine and practice coupled with a study of the various denominational differences between the following traditions: Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Reformed, Wesleyan, Evangelical, and Free Tradition. Spring alternate years.

A survey of the historical development of Christianity with special attention given to the rise of the papacy, the Protestant Reformation, the Catholic Counter-Reformation, and the emergence of religious pluralism in the United States. Spring alternate years.

A Survey of the historical and theological development of Christianity from the period of the from the period of the early church to the eve of the Protestant Reformation.

A survey of the historical and theological development of Christianity from the Protestant Reformation to the present. Spring, alternate years.

A survey of the major religious movements that have developed in America. Special emphasis on Native American religion, the influence of religion on social change, and legal issues involving religion and the U.S. Constitution. Fall alternate

An exploration of the history, theology, and practice of Islam in the past and present. Recommended prerequisite: REL 310. Spring, alternate years.

An exploration of the history, theology, and practice of major religions of the East, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Recommended prerequisite: REL 310. Spring alternate years.

Students develop, research, write, and present a major research paper in religion under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Thesis to be evaluated by a committee comprised of the faculty mentor and two other faculty members. Students are required to present their findings in a public forum as well as to defend their thesis before the committee. Prerequisite: Senior standing. As needed.