Objectives
Enhance the attitudes, knowledge and skills of Catholic religious educators;
Provide additional possibilities for personal growth in faith;
Provide a better understanding and integration of the principles and methods of religious education;
Provide resources for the integration of Christian faith and service.
Students who want to know and understand the genesis of religion to satisfy their thirst for knowledge by enrolling in a program with a minor in religious sciences. Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism, Islam and Hinduism are the different religions studied in depth in this discipline.
The minor program in Religious Science explores the religious dimension of human being, while allowing to discover the great religions, the new spirituality and the Christian faith. Those who enroll in this program will become familiar with the various works carried out by Jesus, Moses, the prophet Muhammad and other founders of major world religions. Several aspects of the religious sciences are also covered, such as psychology and sociology, religion, comparative history of religions, theology and hermeneutics of sacred texts.
The studies required for the Master of Theology (MTh) degree represent the culmination of the second cycle of basic training in theology. They provide extensive knowledge and skills in several branches of theology. Students organise their programmes to reflect the orientation they intend to follow in their training.
This programme is offered jointly by the Faculties of Theology of the Universities of Lausanne, Geneva and Neuchâtel. The student chooses three branches among the five presented in the study plan. Each of the branches is followed in one the three partner universities, depending on the chosen area of specialisation:
Biblical Sciences (Lausanne) develops the student’s mastery of exegetic methods in the field of biblical, inter-testamentary and apocryphal Christian literature. The teaching is given under the aegis of the French-Swiss Institute of Biblical Studies.
The History of Christianity (Geneva) has the aim of enabling the students to acquire an autonomous capacity for work on the original sources. The teaching is given in collaboration with the Institute of History of the Reformation.
Religious Studies (Lausanne) offers a diversified approach: sociology and psychology of religions, transversal and marginalised traditions, history of Jews and Judaism, religions of India. The Observatory of Religions in Switzerland is associated with the teaching.
Systematic Theology and Ethics (Geneva) provides the tools needed to think about theology in the present climate of recomposition of the religious field. The aim of these subjects taught in the framework of the French-Swiss Institute of Systematic Theology and Ethics is to develop the students’ reflections on theology and philosophy as well as on fundamental ethics and its relevance in different fields of applied ethics.
Practical Theology (Neuchâtel) includes experimental seminars in the form of practice internships. The teaching benefits from the research conducted on the ways of communicating the Christian faith in contemporary society and promotes the personal development of a theory of pastoral action.
Schreiner University offers courses leading to the degree of Bachelor of Arts with a major in Religion. The study of religion might be justified solely on the argument that one cannot understand our own culture or that of others without coming to terms with religion’s aspirations, symbols, practices and values. The study of religion at Schreiner University, however, seeks to move beyond the mere description of religion’s cultural significance by exploring the way the Christian faith narrates the meaning and purpose of human life in God’s redemptive activity in Jesus Christ. Informed by the Reformed tradition’s conviction that faith is inseparable from life, the study of religion at Schreiner will endeavor to challenge students to integrate what is learned academically with what is lived out in faith.
Religion Major with an emphasis in Christian Ministry (36 hours): Students must complete all the requirements for the Christian Ministry Minor, plus three additional 300 level classes, including one course from the biblical field (REL 320 through REL 339), one from the historical field (REL 340 through REL 369), and one from the theological field (REL 371 through REL 389). In addition, a non-credit senior project is also required.
REL 203 Religion, Peace, and Non-Violent Alternatives – 1 hour
In this course students use the disciplinary tools of religion to explore and meaningfully construct theories of religious approaches to non-violence in communities. Course must be taken in conjunction with SOC203. Counts toward LAP religion requirement.
REL 225 Hebrew Bible — 4 hours
A survey of the literature of the Hebrew Bible from the perspective of contemporary biblical scholarship: its genres, its sources, and its importance as reflecting the history and developing beliefs of ancient Israel. Every fall.
REL 235 New Testament — 4 hours
A survey of New Testament literature from the perspective of contemporary biblical scholarship: its genres, its sources and authors, its importance as reflecting the history and beliefs of early Christian faith. Every spring.
REL 245 Introduction to the Christian Tradition — 4 hours
An analysis of Christian faith through an historical overview of theological developments in the Christian encounter with the world, this course looks at critical “turning points” in the Christian tradition from the spread of Christianity after the 1st century destruction of the Jerusalem temple, through early debates about the nature of the trinity, the 16th century Protestant Reformations, to 20th century developments such as Vatican II and the rise of feminist theology. Every year.
REL 274 Philosophy of Religion — 4 hours (Also PHL 274)
An analysis of arguments for and against traditional Jewish or Christian beliefs, such as those relating to immortality, the existence of God, miracles, and the validity of faith; also, a consideration of non-Western religious beliefs and philosophical methods. Every year.
REL 293/393 Introduction to Judaism — 4 hours
This course explores the theological and historical development of Rabbinic Judaism from the fall of the Second Temple in 70CE to the present. Such issues as Jewish belief and ritual, mysticism, Jewish literature, anti-Semitism and the Holocaust, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will be covered. Students taking the course at the 393 level will be expected to write a research paper. Alternate years.
REL 296/396 Introduction to World Religions: The East — 4 hours
A survey of the beliefs and rituals, as well as the historical and cultural contexts, of the major religious/philosophical traditions of the East: Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism. Reflection on how these religions differ from, or are similar to, the Judeo-Christian tradition will also be central to the course. Students taking the course at the 396 level will be expected to write a research paper. Alternate years.
REL 309 Death and Dying — 4 hours
This class uses novels, field trips, videos, interviews, and readings to survey world religious perspectives on death and dying, including aspects of care for the dying, grief and bereavement, and funeral services. Every fall.
REL 311 The Bible as Literature — 4 hours (Also ENG311).
A close reading of the major books of the Hebrew Bible and New Testament with special attention paid to both their literary qualities and theological content. Alternate years.
REL 315 Psychology of Religion — 4 hours (Also PSY 315)
A course on the exploration of the interaction of psychological dynamics and religious behavior. This includes the study of the biological foundations of religion, behavior change, religious orientation, belief systems, faith, locus of control, lifestyles and personality. Every year.
REL 325 Hebrew Prophets Then and Now — 4 hours
An examination of the message and impact of the minor and major Hebrew prophets, with particular attention paid to the socio-political issues with which they were concerned. The course concludes with a consideration of some of the men and women who have kept the Hebrew prophetic tradition alive in the 20th and 21st centuries. Suggested prerequisite: REL 225. Alternate years.
REL 335 Jesus in History and Tradition — 4 hours
A study of the figure of Jesus in the literature of the New Testament, in historical research of 1st-century Judaism and Hellenism, and in the theological and cultural traditions of Christianity. Alternate years.
REL 336 The Apostle Paul — 4 hours
A consideration of the life, conversion, mission and theology of the Apostle Paul with particular attention paid to the effect that his Epistle to the Romans had on the Fathers of the early church. Suggested prerequisite: REL 235. Alternate years.
REL 343 Islamic World — 4 hours (Also HIS 243/343)
A survey of the development of the Islamic faith, its spread to the people of the Arabian peninsula, North Africa, Spain, Central Asia, Asia, and of Islam’s subsequent relationship with the West. As permitted. Does not fulfill Religion LAP requirement.
REL 345 Women and Religion — 4 hours
Using autobiographies, films, first-hand accounts, and secondary sources by and about women, this course uses comparative sociological and historical approaches to study the many and varied roles of women in religion, including the practices, experiences, leadership, and participation of women in religion. We will consider the role of women in religion cross-culturally as well as in American culture. Alternate years.
REL 349 Apocalyptic Then and Now — 4 hours
This course uses videos, novels, biblical texts, and secondary sources to survey the themes of apocalyptic thought, from the roots of apocalypticism in classical Hebrew prophecy, through New Testament apocalypses, to medieval examples of millennialism, to contemporary understandings of the “end times.” Suggested prerequisite: REL 225 or REL 235. As permitted.
REL 354 Religion in Culture and Society — 4 hours
This course addresses the relationships between religion and society. We will examine how religion is defined across many different cultures. The course also considers the roles of myths, rituals, symbols, and religious experiences as they are expressed in different societies. What role does religion play in replicating social norms and what role does it play in bringing about social change? We will look at large scale religious belief systems such as Buddhism and Christianity as well as small-scale societies where shamans are the traditional religious leaders. We also examine the development of global movements toward secularization and fundamentalism. As permitted.
REL 357 Medieval Christianity — 4 hours (Also HIS 357)
A history of Christianity from its development during the Roman Empire to the eve of the Reformation, emphasizing spiritual, intellectual, and institutional aspects of the Christian experience in the Middle Ages. Spring, alternate years.
REL 365 Religion in America — 4 hours (Also HIS 265/365)
An historical analysis of the role played by religion in the United States, especially by the major Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish denominations and movements, as well as by Native American traditions. Alternate years.
REL 366 Religion and the “Culture Wars” — 4 hours
Using the framework of sociologist James Davison Hunter’s Culture Wars, this class seeks to understand how Christians differ on a broad range of issues, including family, education, arts, law and politics. Alternate years.
REL 368 Alternative Religions in America — 4 hours
Through films, firsthand accounts, and secondary sources, this course surveys some of America’s “alternative” versions of Christianity and other religions, including such movements as the Shakers, Mormons, and the Branch Davidians of Waco. Throughout the semester, we will consider sociological theories of New Religious Movements. Students will visit and report on local meetings of alternative religions. As permitted.
REL 375 Theology and the Arts — 4 hours (Also AHT 375)
An examination of artistic expression as a form of religious self-transcendence and the role that theology has played in this expression throughout the centuries. Particular attention will be paid to theological themes in Western art, from frescoes in the second-century catacombs to examples of the avant-garde in the twentieth century. Music and the performing arts will also be considered. Alternate years.
REL 384 Theological Seminar — 4 hours
A focused study of one aspect of biblical theology (such as the family, sacrifice, death and the afterlife), of systematic theology (such as the nature of revelation, God and angels, sin and salvation, eschatology), of historical theology (such as the thought of a major theologian), or of contemporary theology (such as the dialogue between science and religion). Prerequisite: REL 235 or REL 245. As permitted.
REL 385 Contemporary Christian Theology — 4 hours
A study of major theological movements in the 20th century, such as liberal Protestantism, neo-orthodoxy, process theology, the various liberation theologies, and their representative thinkers. Suggested prerequisite: REL 245. Alternate years.
REL 386 Christianity and Social Justice — 4 hours
A study of the use of biblical and theological arguments to construct ethical standards of personal and social behavior. Particular attention is paid to examining the Christian’s role in addressing such contemporary social problems as sexism, ecological destruction, globalization, and government sanctioned violence. Suggested prerequisite: REL 235 or REL 245. Alternate years.
REL 387 The Roman Catholic Tradition — 4 hours
An investigation of the current doctrines and practices of Roman Catholicism in the context of its theological and philosophical heritage. The course will focus on careful readings of foundational thinkers such as St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas in order to understand contemporary positions of the Roman Catholic Church. Alternate years.
REL 395 Native American Religious Traditions – 4 hours
This course explores the Native American religious traditions of North America, covering issues such as the definition of religion in non-Western traditions and how religion can be seen as a part of one’s identity. Comparisons are made between American Indian religions and other cultural traditions in the global context. Ethnographic descriptions focus on specific groups such as the Lakota (Sioux); the Apache; the Native American Church; and the Anishinabe (or Objiway/Chippewa) with a focus on Plains groups. Alternate years.
REL 400 Growth and Learning: Faith Development — 1 hour
Students examine concepts and issues regarding development and learning for P-12 children and youth. Instruction and related field activities assist candidates to connect concepts and theories to teaching practice. This course requires participation in field activities and helps to prepare candidates for methods courses, and Clinical and Candidate Teaching. Must be taken in conjunction with EDU 300; students taking this class will be expected to do extra work in faith development. Prerequisite: sophomore level status, ED 100/140, one 200 level Religion course, and permission of the instructor. Every year.
REL 403 Counseling Theories and Process — 1 hour
A course designed to acquaint the student with the major counseling theories, their theoretical roots and application. Emphasis is placed on the use of these strategies and techniques in the clinical setting. Taken in conjunction with PSY 333; students taking this class will be expected to do extra work in pastoral counseling. Prerequisites: One 200 level Religion course and permission of the instructor. Offered each Spring semester.
REL 405 Church Leadership: Preaching, Worship, Polity and Program — 4 hours
A study of preaching, worship, lectionary use, hymnody, polity/church government, and interpersonal and organizational skills. The polity segment will be taught ecumenically and comparatively, incorporating special projects so students can develop an understanding of their particular denomination. Prerequisites: One 200 level Religion course and permission of the instructor. Alternate years.
REL 406 Christian Education and Youth Ministry — 4 hours
An introductory course in the theologies, methods, and models of Christian Education in faith communities. Particular attention will be paid to issues of gender, race, and class in ministry to youth. Prerequisites: One 200 level Religion course and permission of the instructor. Alternate years.
REL 407 Social Justice, Mission, and Ministry — 1 hour
A reflective study of the theories and practice of social justice and mission work in the context of lay and ordained ministry. Must be taken following HUM 392. Offered every spring semester.
REL 450 Student Ministry Practicum — 3 hours
A ministry practicum in an approved church or Christian organization for 10 to 12 hours per week during the fall or spring semester, or 20 hours per week for eight weeks in the summer, preferably during the junior or senior year. Students will be required to attend a seminar every other week to discuss and reflect on their service. The practicum will focus on church leadership in pastoral ministry, Christian education, music ministry, mission, or another area of religious service. Students will receive a stipend. May not count towards a Religion Major or Religion Minor. Prerequisites: permission of the instructor. Every year.
REL 480 Seminar on the Nature of Christian Ministry — 1 hour
A capstone course, to be taken in the junior or senior year, that involves written and oral reflection on the nature of Christian Ministry, as well as an assessment component to help us evaluate our overall program. Intended for students who minor in Christian Ministry. May not count towards a Religion Major or Minor. Prerequisites: permission of the instructor. Every year.
Outline of Degree Requirements General Studies HOURS
COL 181 Adult Student Orientation 0-1
ENGL 101 Written Communication 3
Speech 3
Literature/Art/Music/Drama 3
Philosophy 2-3
Psychology or Sociology 3
THEO 110 Exploring the Christian Faith 3
History 3
Mathematics or Science (Lab Optional) 3-4
23-26
Major
BIBL 201 Biblical Interpretation 3
BIBL 211 Old Testament I 3
BIBL 221 New Testament I 3
MIN 210 The Christian World Mission 3
MIN 310 Evangelism & Discipleship (3)
Electives in Ministry or Youth Ministry 6
BIBL 320 Biblical Theology or Elective in Bible 3
THEO 310 Systematic Theology I (3)
27
Electives needed to complete the degree 9-12
Bible Certificate
One-year program
Includes a seven week summer session
15 semester hours of college credit
Applicable toward an associate degree
Preparatory education for students aspiring to become biblically literate
Required Courses:
Biblical Interpretation
An introduction to methods of Bible study and to the principles of biblical interpretation. The inductive method is emphasized
Old Testament I
The course emphasizes Genesis, Exodus, Joshua and 1-2 Kings. The important themes of creation, election, the exodus, conquest of Canaan and exile are studied. These themes are also traced to the New Testament.
New Testament I
This course is an introduction to the four Gospels and the person of Jesus Christ. It includes a historical survey of Gospels’ interpretation (source, form, redaction criticism) as well as more recent approaches such as narrative criticism. Moreover, this course aims at providing a framework for how to interpret the Gospels properly and consequently how to apply insights from Jesus (his personal example, teaching and theology) in one’s life and ministry.
Exploring the Christian Faith
This course is designed to acquaint the student with the Christian worldview as it is set forth by the Scriptures, interpreted by evangelical Christianity, and shown in its relationship to current world ideologies. The contribution of this Christian perspective to the student’s learning experiences is brought into focus.
Philosophy is, literally, the “love of wisdom.” Philosophy courses at Bethany College encourage this love, develop intellectual tools vital to the search for wisdom, and study the best human efforts (past and present) at attaining wisdom. We believe everyone should be a philosopher, a lover of wisdom.
Philosophy deals with basic questions that impact all academic disciplines: what can be known and how it can be known, what it is to be human (human nature and the purpose of human existence), how humans ought to act (right and wrong), what is real and what is good and evil (the nature and purpose of the universe), what can be known about the existence of God and of God’s nature. Philosophy courses at Bethany College examine these (and many related) issues from a broad perspective that includes contrasting viewpoints within western culture as well as insights from other cultures. The careful examination of these issues strengthens any major course of study, providing the foundation and breadth needed to use that knowledge in a wise manner.
Philosophy requires careful deliberation. It is sometimes described as thought that has been thought out. The intellectual skills vital to the search for wisdom include critical thinking (the ability to examine arguments and claims) and introspection (the ability to examine one’s own opinions and way of life). The Philosophy courses at Bethany College, both directly and indirectly, develop and encourage these abilities. Of course, these skills are not just vital to the search for wisdom, but to success in any profession and endeavor.
Oftentimes philosophy professors are stereotyped as skeptical individuals who, because they question everything, don’t believe in much of anything. This is not the case at Bethany. Philosophy is taught within the scope of the academic mission of the College, which includes the fostering of Christian faith. Courses are taught with the ideal of integrating faith and learning, but with the recognition that thinking about one’s beliefs is crucial to both faith and learning. Thus, philosophy courses at Bethany College are very beneficial to students that are serious about their faith.
The Religion and Philosophy department at Bethany College offers a minor in Philosophy, although a contract major is possible, which is a excellent complement to any major. Philosophy students consistently score the highest on pre-graduate school examinations. They are well prepared to continue their education beyond undergraduate studies, whether within their profession or in graduate school.
Course descriptions:
110. EXPLORING THE CHRISTIAN FAITH. 3 Cr. Hrs.
An introduction to the academic study of the Judeo-Christian tradition which acquaints the student with scholarly methods of study as well as central biblical/ theological concepts and vocabulary as they relate to, and are in dialogue with, philosophical, historical and theological questions of value and commitment. May be applied to Area 4.1.
Tradition and Culture
200. REASON, FAITH, AND THE SEARCH FOR MEANING.
See Philosophy 200.
216. THE PROBLEM AND PROMISE OF GOD FOR THE 21st CENTURY. 3 Cr. Hrs.
An exploration of various biblical and theological, historical and contemporary images used to portray and characterize God, including a discussion of the advantages and limitations of these conceptions for an intelligible and credible understanding of God. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
241. THEOLOGY IN A PHILOSOPHICAL CONTEXT. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course is a survey of Western philosophical thought with the purpose of introducing students of theology to the philosophical ideas which have had a significant influence on the development of Christian theology. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
244. CHRISTOLOGY. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course examines how the Christian movements witness of faith has understood the person of Jesus the Christ from both his relationship to God and how his person is expressed as fully human. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
245. AFTER AUSCHWITZ: THE SHOAH AND CHRISTIAN FAITH. 3 Cr. Hrs.
The word �Shoah� means desolution of cosmic proportions. Auschwitz and the killing of six million Jews from 1939-1945 was a �Shoah.� This course examines how the �holocaust� has and should affect Christian faith and life. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
210. ETHICAL PERSPECTIVES.
223. RELIGION AND AMERICAN CULTURE. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course examines what happens to religious traditions that collide with and are shaped by American culture. Specifically, the Christian tradition is examined for the ways in which it has accommodated, compromised with, or resisted the pull of American culture. We will examine the interaction of religion and culture through film, art, music, television, and computer technology. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
224. LUTHERAN IDENTITY IN AN ECUMENICAL CONTEXT. 3 Cr. Hrs.
A study of the Lutheran Church as an historical entity with reference to doctrine, organization, practice, location, and ecumenical context. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
225. THE CHURCH IN GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course aims at introducing the student to Christian theology as it is being developed in an African context. This will be done through reading in African theology and in the history of the Church in Africa. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
232. CHRISTIAN ETHICS. 3 Cr. Hrs.
An exploration of the biblical vision of life and its meaning for human conduct. Attention will be given to Christian responses to selected contemporary moral issues. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
261. JUDAISM AND THE JEWISH PEOPLE. 3 Cr. Hrs.
262. THE JEWISH ROOTS OF CHRISTIANITY. 3 Cr. Hrs.
310. DEATH, DYING, AND BEYOND.
Text and Context
211. STORY AND THEOLOGY. 3 Cr. Hrs.
An exploration of biblical and secular narrative with particular attention to their compositional conventions, theological convictions, and literary connections. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
212. LESSONS IN LIVING: BIBLICAL AND CONTEMPORARY REFLECTIONS ON WISDOM. 3 Cr. Hrs.
An exploration of the biblical wisdom books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Job, and Song of Songs in conjunction with contemporary reflections on wisdom. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
213. POWER, POLITICS, AND THE BIBLICAL PROPHETS. 3 Cr. Hrs.
An exploration of the prophetic biblical literature with particular attention to the historical situation of the prophets as well as the contemporary relevance and importance of their message. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
214. THE LIFE AND TEACHINGS OF JESUS. 3 Cr. Hrs.
An examination of the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth through a study and analysis of the four written Gospels. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
215. THE LIFE AND LETTERS OF PAUL. 3 Cr. Hrs.
A study of the life and selected letters of the apostle Paul with particular concern for contemporary relevance. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
218. HOPE AND THE FUTURE. 3 Cr. Hrs.
Does the future hold the good that hasn�t happened yet or the bad? This course studies the ways Jewish and Christian scripture uses the future as a threat and as a hopeful sign. Close attention will be paid to the literary shape and function of resurrection narratives, especially as they draw on apocalyptic and eschatological texts. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
229. READING FOR MEANING AND TRUTH WITH HERMES, GOD OF THIEVES AND INTERPRETERS. 3 Cr. Hrs.
Do readers find truth or steal it? Create it or deconstruct it? This course explores how interpreters and texts dance with each other to discover and create meaning and truth. Interpretive theories will be explored, and literary, philosophical, and theological implications will be examined. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
253. THEOLOGY, PRAXIS AND MINISTRY. 3 Cr. Hrs.
Through examination of actual situations of explicit Christian ministry, both in the church and beyond the church, students will evaluate the degree to which theology is made manifest in actual human experience.
Contemporary Issues
219. GOD, SUFFERING, AND EVIL. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course will analyze various theological and Biblical texts which seek to reconcile a suffering world to a moral God. The course will also examine the traditional problem of evil. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
220. GOD AND HUMAN SEXUALITY. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course relates the human power of sexuality to traditional Christian biblical, theological, historical, and ethical attitudes toward God and human sexuality. These attitudes are examined as they confront contemporary cultural and scientific understandings of human sexuality. Discussion of sexual ethics will be a central part of the course. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
228. WILDMAN, WARRIOR; FAMILY MAN, FRIEND: GOD AND THE CHANGING SHAPE OF AMERICAN MASCULINITY. 3 Cr. Hrs.
An exploration of men�s studies and their relevance for the church, including a discussion of the social and religious constructions of masculinity and men�s changing roles and relationships. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
242. FEMINIST/WOMANIST THOUGHT. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course is devoted to concentrated study in feminist theology and philosophy. Specific attention will be given to understanding the differences between feminist, womanist, and mujerista thought. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
243. CREATION AND COSMOLOGY: CONVERSATIONS BETWEEN SCIENCE AND RELIGION. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course will develop the theological implications of the Christian doctrine of creation in light of current conversations between religion and science. The major topics of the course are: 1) a survey of the doctrine of creation, 2) theories, models, metaphors, and paradigms, 3) epistemological issues, and 4) spiritual dimensions of the doctrine of creation. Prerequisite: Religion 110 or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
235. ISSUES IN THEOLOGICAL ETHICS. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course will examine major issues in theological ethics by focusing on a particular theological tradition and a representative theologian or ethicist and will examine particular doctrines and ethical dilemmas in philosophical, theological, and historical contexts. Prerequisite: Religion 110, or consent of instructor. May be applied to Area 4.2.
236. THEOLOGY, COMMUNITY AND DISCERNMENT. 3 Cr. Hrs.
In Christian theological ethics, perennial discussion turns to how Christians know what they are to do. This course will take up that question with particular attention to the role of community in Christian discernment.
237. THEOLOGY AND MEDICINE. 3 Cr. Hrs.
This course is a study of theological perspectives on issues in contemporary medicine. Rigorous intellectual attention will be given to the ways in which religious practices, beliefs, and institutions form and are formed by experiences of illness, heath, and medical sciences.
305. BIOMEDICAL ETHICS.
See Philosophy 305.
Seminar and Thesis Courses
300. SEMINAR IN THEOLOGICAL AND HERMENEUTICAL METHOD. 3 Cr. Hrs.
Theological perspectives and interpretive strategies are not static; they change as a result of the historical, philosophical, and cultural influences of the era in which they are formulated. This course explores the various theological traditions and hermeneutical perspectives of selected historical eras.
320.(W) SEMINAR IN BIBLICAL STUDIES. 3 Cr. Hrs.
A concentrated study of a particular topic in biblical studies. Possible topics. Studies in the Pentateuch; Dead Sea Scrolls; the Fourth Gospel; Apocalyptic writings. Prerequisites: Religion 110 and one of Religion 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 228, 229 or consent of instructor.
332. SEMINAR IN CONTEMPORARY THEOLOGY. 3 Cr. Hrs.
A seminar devoted to reading 20th Century theologians. Prerequisites: Religion 110, and one of Religion 200, 219, 220, 232, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245 or consent of instructor.
400. SENIOR THESIS. 3 Cr. Hrs.
In consultation with a faculty member, a second semester senior will select a research topic. With supervision from the faculty member, the student will research and write a paper during the semester. At a final senior thesis forum, the student will present his/her paper to fellow seniors as well as the faculty of the Religion and Philosophy Department.
Topics, Internships, and Independent Study
395. INTERNSHIP. 3-4 Cr. Hrs.
An internship provides work experience under an ordained supervisor with a department member as advisor. Limited to students who are pre-seminary or considering seminary.
197, 297, 397. TOPICS IN RELIGION. 2-4 Cr. Hrs.
199, 299, 399. INDEPENDENT STUDY. 2-4 Cr. Hrs.
Research in a special area, supervised by an instructor. Prerequisites: Religion 110, or consent of instructor; plus consent of department chair.
Youth and Family Ministry - Degree Requirements
Youth and Family Ministry Major
Fourteen courses including:
Theology Core
REL 210 Research Methods in Religion
REL 301 Interpreting the Old Testament
REL 302 Interpreting the New Testament
REL 362 Theology of the Reformers
REL 481 Contemporary Theology
REL 495 Religion Seminar/Keystone
Ministry Core
YFM 208 Vocational Formation I (0 credit)
YFM 209 Vocational Formation II (0 credit)
YFM 235 Foundations for Ministry with Youth and Families
YFM 302 Ministry Practices
YFM 358 Life and Work of the Church
YFM 399 Internship
Religion/Theology Electives (students choose one)
REL 345 The Lutheran Heritage
REL 343 Theology of Marriage and Family
REL 363 Religion in America
REL 356 World Religions
REL 357 Giants of Christian Faith
REL 425 Christian Spiritual Practices
Exploring Topics in Youth and Family Ministry
(students choose 2 of these .5 credit courses; not all courses are offered in a given year; additional .5 credit courses may be added)
YFM 205.1 Ministry in the Great Outdoors
YFM 205.2 Mission Trips and Service-Learning
YFM 205.3 Media, Music and Ministry
YFM 205.4 Youth Culture and Religion
YFM 205.5 Urban Youth Ministry
YFM 205.6 Youth Ministry on the Margins
Social Science Courses
PSY 105 Principles of Psychology
SOC 231 Family Systems
PSY 250 Child Development or PSY 252 Adolescent and Young Adult Development or SWK 260 Humans Developing
Augsburg College YFM majors may also participate in the Lilly Scholars Program as well as any one Study abroad program offered by the Religion Department.
Youth and Family Ministry Minor
The Youth and Family Ministry Minor is perfect for students who, though majoring in another discipline, may have interests in ministry with youth and their families. The requirements for the Youth and Family Ministry minor are:
REL 301 Interpreting the Old Testament or REL 302 Interpreting the New Testament
REL 362 Theology of the Reformers or REL 481 Contemporary Theology
YFM 235 Basics of Youth and Family Ministry
YFM 302 Ministry Practices
YFM 358 Life and Work of the Church
A student with a youth and family ministry major or minor may not also major or minor in religion.
Religion Major/Minor
See description on Religion department webpage.
Prerequisites
Religion 100 (or 300 for advanced transfer students) is prerequisite to all other courses.
Graduation Requirements
Courses designated REL and YFM are offered by the religion department. A maximum of 13 total REL and YFM courses may be applied toward the 32-course requirement for graduation. Taking extra electives in REL or YFM may require students to complete more than the minimum 32 courses required for graduation.
Transfer Courses
All transfer courses for majors and minors, including ACTC courses, must be approved in writing by the chair. Only courses successfully completed (2.0 or above) within the last 10 years will be considered. In general, courses that meet the transfer guidelines may only be applied to elective credit for the major. Students who have taken an approved introductory course in Bible and/or Christian theology at another college may take REL 300 in place of the College REL 100 and 200 requirement; consult the registrar’s office.