RELIGION & PHILOSOPHY Minor Hours
REL 1030 – Introduction to Religion 3
PHIL 2050 – Principles of Philosophy 3
PHIL 3575 – Philosophy of Religion 3
Electives from Department 9
View Course Descriptions » Total: 18
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Concentration Hours
COMM 1101 – Fundamentals of Speech 3
EDUC 2150 – Children’s Literature 3
EDUC 3010 – Integrated Arts for Elementary Teachers 3
MUSIC 2134 – Class Piano for Non-Majors 1
PSYCH 2340 – Child Psychology
OR
PSYCH 2350 – Adolescent Psychology 3
REL 2535 – Christian Beliefs 3
REL 3000 – Faith Development 3
REL 4401 – Internship 3
Suggested or Departmental Electives 6
View Course Descriptions » Total: 28
OUTDOOR MINISTRIES Concentration Hours
MGT 2501 – Principles of Management 3
PER 2283 – Camping and Outdoor Recreation 2
PER 2595 – Organization and Administration of Recreation 3
PER 4740 – Adapting Activities to Special Populations 3
PSYCH 2350 – Adolescent Psychology 3
REL 2535 – Christian Beliefs 3
REL 3250 – Principles and Practice of Community 3
REL 3000 – Faith Development 3
REL 4401 – Internship 3
Suggested or Departmental Electives 6
View Course Descriptions » Total: 32
RELIGION & PHILOSOPHY Major (B.A. Degree) Hours
The Religion & Philosophy Core (Required of All Religion & Philosophy Majors): 15
REL 1121 – Hebrew Bible Introduction 3
REL 1122 – New Testament Introduction 3
REL 2035 – Comparative Denominations 3
PHIL 2050 – Principles of Philosophy 3
PHIL 2170 – Ethics 3
Area of Concentration – Selected from:
• Religion & Philosophy
• Christian Education
• Outdoor Ministries 27-38
View Course Descriptions » Total: 42-47
RELIGION & PHILOSOPHY Concentration Hours
REL 1030 – Introduction to Religion 3
REL 1035 – Near Eastern Religions 3
REL 1036 – Far Eastern Religions 3
PHIL 1155 – Introduction to Logic
OR
PHIL 1166 – Critical Thinking 3
PHIL 3575 – Philosophy of Religion 3
REL 3600 – Twentieth-Century Theologians 3
Departmental Electives 9
View Course Descriptions » Total: 27
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
REL 101 INTRODUCTION TO THE OLD TESTAMENT Credit 3 hrs.
This course provides a basic overview and study of the Old Testament. The history of Israel is presented along with the economic, social, political, cultural and religious life of the Hebrew people. Each Old Testament book and major biblical characters will be examined. Primary attention is also devoted to contemporary biblical interpretation and historical research.
REL 102 INTRODUCTION TO THE NEW TESTAMENT Credit 3 hrs.
This course provides a basic overview and study of the New Testament books. The political, religious, and sociological environment surrounding the formation of the writings will be examined along with outstanding characters and teachings of each book. Attention is devoted to contemporary biblical interpretation and historical research.
REL 103 SPIRITUAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT I Credit 3 hrs.
This course examines the dynamics of the Call of God on an individual’s life. Attention is focused on self evaluation of personal spiritual development and progress in light of scriptural teachings.
REL 113 FIELD EXPERIENCE (PRACTICUM I) Credit 3 hrs.
Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor
This course provides individual work under faculty or ministerial supervision in a church setting. Evaluation is based on demonstrated practical experience utilizing skills attained from completed coursework.
REL 114 FIELD EXPERIENCE (PRACTICUM II) Credit 3 hrs.
Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor
This course is a Continuation of REL 113. It provides the individual with additional hands on experience under faculty or ministerial supervision in a church setting with evaluation based on demonstrated practical experience utilizing skills attained from completed coursework.
REL 115 THE BIBLE AND CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Credit 3 hrs.
This above course will examine the Bible as a foundation for Christian Education. Fundamental questions of Biblical hermeneutics and theology will be explored in the context of Christian education.
REL 116 THE CHURCH’S MINISTRY WTH CHILDREN Credit 3 hrs.
This course explores the lives of children and parents and their involvement in the larger life and ministry of the church. It involves direct observation of children, findings of students from child psychology, studies of such issues as age level/faith development characteristics, and children’s worship.
REL 117 THE CHURCH’S MINISTRY WITH YOUTH Credit 3 hrs.
This course explores the challenges facing youth in contemporary society and how the church can best minister to them. Students study faith development and pastoral care for youth in crisis, as they learn to plan, develop, and implement effective youth ministry programs.
REL 118 THE CHURCH’S MINISTRY WITH ADULTS Credit 3 hrs.
This course explores the social, psychological, cultural, and theological understanding of adults. It involves theological foundations, educational possibilities, and developmental issues of pastoral care.
REL 201 SERMON PREPARATION Credit 3 hrs.
This course is a study of the theology of preaching, as well as the mechanics of sermon preparation for the purpose of enabling the student to communicate God’s Word effectively and correctly in the 20th century.
REL 202 SERMON DELIVERY Credit 3 hrs.
Prerequisite: REL 201
This course is a continuation of REL 201. It provides students with the experience of analyzing the sermons of others. Course includes student preaching and in class analysis of sermons.
REL 203 SPIRITUAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT II Credit 3 hrs.
This course explores the spirituality of the pastor and the impact of his spiritual development on his/her ministry.
REL 204 BLACK RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP Credit 3 hrs.
This course provides an opportunity for students to research the historical and theological development of Black Christian denominations. Attention is given to Black worship, some major leaders, assessment of the potential influence of religious leaders in the 21st century, and the church’s current challenges.
REL 205 WORLD RELIGIONS Credit 3 hrs.
This course surveys the major religions of the world: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Animism (traditional religion). The major tenets of each religion are studied along with their impact and place in world history and civilization.
REL 206 CREATIVE STYLES OF WORSHIP Credit 3 hrs.
This course is a study of the nature, techniques, and conduct of church worship, with emphasis on the preparation and administration of services for various denominations and occasions. The use of appropriate church music, information, worship opportunities, and new experimental forms of worship are emphasized.
REL 207 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION AND THE BLACK CHURCH Credit 3 hrs.
This course focuses on an examination of the origin, extent, potential, and direction of religious education in the Black Church.
REL 208 THE CHRISTIAN EDUCATOR AS CHANGE AGENT Credit 3 hrs.
This course examines the theory, ways, and means by which the Christian educator can engage in planned change in the local church or related settings.
REL 304 HISTORY OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH Credit 3 hrs.
This course briefly explores the history of the Christian church from the Apostolic Age to the present.
REL 307 CHURCH ADMINSTRATION Credit 3 hrs.
This course explores the role of the Chief Executive Officer or Minister in planning and directing relevant programs, structures and finance, the development of effective lay workers, and the guidance of staff workers. The problems of planning for and financing recurring long and short funds used in the day to day operations of the church are also examined.
REL 308 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Credit 3 hrs.
This course provides an understanding of the meaning and significance of the church’s educational ministry. Opportunities for exercises in teaching learning units are also provided.
REL 309 PASTORAL CARE AND COUNSELING Credit 3 hrs.
This course is an introduction to the ministry of pastoral care with emphasis on the helping relationship, the theology of pastoral care, pastoral use of psychotherapeutic theories and strategies for change, and various types of pastoral care and counseling such as death, crisis, premarital, marriage, and family are emphasized.
REL 310 OFFICERS AS LEADERS Credit 3 hrs.
This course addresses the role of local church officers and emphasizes administrative and community duties, as well as pastoral officer relationships.
REL 311 SYNOPTIC GOSPELS Credit 3 hrs.
This course is the study of the origin of the Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and Luke with particular attention to their similarities. An examination of each gospel’s uniqueness is included.
REL 312 BLACKS AND THE BIBLE Credit 3 hrs.
This course examines Black biblical characters with particular attention to historical methods used to identify a person’s ancestry.
REL 314 THE WRITINGS OF PAUL Credit 3 hrs.
Grounded in Paul’s writing style, this course investigates the apostle’s theology and its influence upon the first century church.
REL 315 THE TORAH Credit 3 hrs.
This course examines recent biblical scholarship on the Torah as the foundation document of Jewish and Christian faiths.
REL 316 THE MAJOR PROPHETS Credit 3 hrs.
This course presents a chronological and synthetic overview of each major prophet with special attention being given to the origin, theme, structure, and general content of each book.
REL 317 THE HISTORY AND POLITY OF THE AME CHURCH Credit 3 hrs.
This course investigates the historical development of the AME Church from its founding to the present. Particular emphasis is placed on the Conference system of the AME Church’s sacraments, worship, and mission.
REL 318 THE PASTOR AND FAMILY LIFE Credit 3 hrs.
This course is a study of the characteristics and needs of families with special attention being given to the pastor as a family person.
REL 401 INTRODUCTION TO THEOLOGY Credit 3 hrs.
This course introduces the student to the nature and context of theology, with special emphasis on the Black Christian experience in America.
REL 402 OLD TESTAMENT THEOLOGY Credit 3 hrs.
Prerequisite: REL 401
This course investigates the theological basis of the religion of the Old Testament. An assignment of the redemptive and creative acts of God, the judgment and salvation of God, and the worship and service of God are the focal points.
REL 403 NEW TESTAMENT THEOLOGY Credit 3 hrs.
Prerequisite: REL 401
This course is an interpretation of the developing theology of the early Christian movement as expressed in the literature of the New Testament and Apostolic fathers.
REL 404 SUPERVISED MINISTRY Credit 9 hrs.
Prerequisites: Senior standing and completion of REL 205, 307, 309, 405, and 410
Each student is required to complete a supervised ministry in a congregation with a pastor with a minimum of Master of Divinity Degree. During this supervised ministry the student participates in a broad range of pastoral functions in a structured theological setting allowing for both participation and reflection. (Semester Course.)
REL 405 CHRISTIAN SOCIAL ETHICS Credit 3 hrs.
This course examines the nature and expectation of Christian and social ethics, the human perception of the modern world and the social forces which help inform and help to shape moral consciousness, along with addressing the criteria for social ethics as it applies to current issues.
REL 408 HISTORY OF THE BLACK CHURCH IN AMERICA Credit 3 hrs.
This course is a study of the historical, social, cultural, and political factors in the development of Christianity in America shaped by the experience of African Americans. Attention is given to Black denominations from colonial times to the present.
REL 409 SEMINAR IN RELIGION Credit 1-3 hrs.
This course emphasizes studies on topics of special interest in religion, including Moral Philosophy, Comparative Religion, Functional Ministry for Contemporary Problems, and Religion in Education.
REL 410 MISSION OF THE CHURCH Credit 3 hrs.
This course is a study of the biblical and theological basis for the mission of the church, missionary principles and practices of the patterns through the centuries, including the Black Church, and emerging new patterns of the Christian mission today.
REL 412 CHURCH MUSIC Credit 3 hrs.
This course explores the relationship of culture and worship from the perspective of the historical use of music. The appropriate musical forms for use in the church are examined. Content also includes the study of liturgy, order of worship, hymns, choir organization, and discussion and evaluation of contemporary Christian musical expression.
REL 413 BLACK RELIGIOUS MUSIC Credit 3 hrs.
This course explores the contributions made to religious music by Black Americans. Consideration is given to the African heritage and its influence upon contemporary, gospel, and Pan African musical development and various musical styles.
REL 414 SERMONS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS Credit 3 hrs.
This course explores sermons for special occasions such as revivals, funerals, liturgical days, homecoming, Founder’s Day, Mother’s and Father’s Day, etc.
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.
Religious Studies Course
RST 101 Religion and Human Experience
RST 210 Religion and Culture
RST 225 Religion and Women
RST 245 Religion and Money
RST 250 Afrrican American Religious Experience
RST 265 Western Religion and the Family
RST 290 Religions of the World
RST 302 Religion: Ritual and Symbol
RST 370 Religions of India
RST 372 Religions of the West
Theology Course Descriptions
THE 121 Introduction to Catholic Theology
THE 201 Introduction to the Old Testament
THE 202 Acts, Paul, Revelation
THE 203 Gospel Traditions
THE 222 Christian Spirituality
THE 223 Christ, Church, and Social Justice
THE 240 Theological Ethics
The division of Hebrew and Jewish Cultural Studies (HJCS) offers elementary, intermediate, and advanced Hebrew language classes along with other courses in Hebrew literature and culture. Learning the language enables students to engage in the study of historical, literary and religious texts, as well as study the politics, folklore, anthropology of the culture, using texts and various media, including film. The study of classical and modern Hebrew texts provides students with an integrated view of the development of Hebrew and Jewish literature and culture. The program offers a variety of upper division courses in these areas, making it possible for students to create a concentration in HJCS. For more information, visit the Hebrew and Jewish Cultural Studies website.
Summary: All concentrators in HJCS are required to complete HJCS 100: Peoples of the Middle East, and two terms of Hebrew (HJCS 101 and 102) as prerequisites. The concentrator’s core courses must include three terms of Hebrew (HJCS 201, 202, 301) and four additional courses. Of these four, two must be upper-division courses taught in Hebrew, which require the reading of Hebrew texts; the remaining two courses must be in the field of Jewish, Israeli or Hebrew literature, history, or culture. Please note that many of the 300 and 400 level courses have an optional Hebrew section which counts for upper-division Hebrew credit. See individual course descriptions for details. A student who places out of HJCS 301 is required to take an additional Hebrew course. The concentrator must also complete two elective cognate courses outside of HJCS. Students are strongly encouraged to take ACABS 425/ AAPTIS 425/ HJCS 425: Near Eastern Studies Capstone Seminar as a cognate. The cognate courses must be approved by the concentration advisor.
Course Descriptions
GREE 10053 - First Semester College Greek (Hellenistic)An introduction to the grammar of ancient Greek, utilizing as the basis ofstudy the elements of the Hellenistic Greek of the first century A.D.found in the best known documents of the period, the New Testament.
GREE 10063 - Second Semester College Greek (Hellenistic) Prerequisite: GREE 10053 or its equivalent. Continuation of GREE 10053. In the second half of the semester, students will read from the New Testament Gospels.
GREE 20053 – Third Semester College Greek (Hellenistic) Prerequisite: GREE 10053 and 10063 or equivalent. Further study of Hellenistic Greek grammar, through extensive reading in the New Testament, especially the letters of Paul.
GREE 20063 – Fourth Semester College Greek (Hellenistic) Prerequisite: GREE 20053 or equivalent. Continuation of GREE 20053, with reading and interpretation of the New Testament and other Hellenistic texts.
GREE 20990 - International Residential Study This course represents credit earned through a semester study abroad experience with an institution or program with which Texas Christian University has an official agreement to accept credit. The site and specific content will be identified on the official transcript. Courses appearing on a student’s official transcript have been included in the student’s grade point average.
GREE 30990 – International Residential Study This course represents credit earned through a semester study abroad experience with an institution or program with which Texas Christian University has an official agreement to accept credit. The site and specific content will be identified on the official transcript. Courses appearing on a student’s official transcript have been included in the student’s grade point average.
GREE 40970 – Directed Studies in Greek Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Opportunity for independent study of Hellenistic text. (1-6 semester hours.)
RELI 10023 – Understanding Religion: Communities
This course introduces students to the vital role of religion in human experience by considering historical, comparative and methodological issues in the study of religion with reference to rituals, institutions, texts, figures, and beliefs in major world religions. Credit cannot be given for both RELI 10013 and 10023.
RELI 10033 – Understanding Religion: Texts and Ideas
This course introduces students to the vital role of religion in human experience by exploring literary, historical, cultural dimensions of religion texts, patterns of belief, and related ritual and ethical practices. Credit cannot be given for both RELI 10003 and 10033.
RELI 10043 – Understanding Religion: Society and Culture
This course introduces students to the vital role of religion in human experience. Through case studies, readings, lectures, and multimedia demonstrations, students will learn about the various relations between religion, culture, and society. Credit cannot be given for both RELI 10013 and RELI 10043.
RELI 10433 – Freshman Seminar in Religion
Topics may vary each time it is offered.
RELI 10533 – Freshman Seminar in Religion
Topics may vary each time it is offered.
RELI 20123 – New Testament Literature and Life
An introduction to the writings in the New Testament with special attention to the content of the individual books, together with an understanding of the beginnings of the Christian faith seen through the study of the Gospels and the initial development of the Christian movement.
RELI 20443 – Faith and Ethical Leadership
What’s religion got to do with making moral decisions? In this introduction to religious ethics, students learn how to deepen their capacity to make moral choices by thinking about the interrelationship of modes of decision-making, social analyses and faith commitments. Then, using case studies, students explore how Muslims, Christians and Jews can provide moral leadership in civic discourse regarding ethical issues from pre-marital sex to economic justice.
RELI 20503 – Africa and the African Diaspora: History, Religion, and Culture
This class examines the origins and impact of African civilization, focusing on the worlds of traditional religions, Islam and Christianity in Africa; colonialism, anti-colonial struggles, independence, and postcolonialism; African studies in Western Scholarship; and issues affecting modern Africa.
RELI 20513 – Africa and the African Diaspora: History, Religion, and Culture
Building on RELI 20503, this class examines West African religious traditions, the ‘involuntary diaspora’ to the New World, as well as ‘creole’ religions and culture within the Caribbean. In concludes with an account of the rise of the African Independent Churches; the place of women in North African Islam; the presence of Rastafari in Ghana, and the continuing clash of traditional African and Western cultures.
RELI 20523 – Sophomore Seminar: Finding the Founders: Lives of Confucius, the Buddha, and Jesus
Prerequisite: Religion major or permission of instructor. Must have completed introductory religion course. This course considers the founders of three important religious traditions, both in their own right and as examples of what happens during the creation of a religious tradition. After considering the question “what is religion?” we turn to reports of the lives of Confucius, the Buddha, and Jesus Christ. We will inquire into how their cultural context shapes them, and how our cultural upbringing shapes the way we look at them.
RELI 20533 – Sophomore Seminar: Life After Death
Prerequisite: Religion major or permission of the instructor. Must have completed an introductory religion course. This course will explore the varied ways in which different religions in various historical and cultural contexts address mortality and the question of life after death. By focusing on social constructions of death and post-morten destiny in different religious traditions, students will encounter a range of beliefs, rituals and sacred narratives.
RELI 20643 – Sophomore Seminar: Thinking About Christian Faith
Prerequisites: Religion major or permission of instructor; Must have completed an introductory Religion course. An introduction to theological reading, thinking, and writing through an exploration of major doctrines in Christian theology. Nineteenth- and twentieth-century developments, such as the rise of historical thinking and its impact on Christology, the rise of scientific thinking and its impact on the doctrine of creation, and the rise of postmodern thinking and its impact on Christian views of other religions will be emphasized. Class procedure will be seminar discussion of assigned readings.
RELI 20703 – Leadership in Ministry
Prerequisite: Religion major or minor, or departmental permission. Introduces the role of the minister and outlines his/her responsibilities. Special emphasis on preaching, religious education (including youth work) and pastoral care.
RELI 20803 – Sophomore Seminar: Myth and Ritual on Film
Through course readings and screenings, students will see how films are created in ways strikingly similar to the ways religious rituals and myths are created. Films screened include The Matrix, The Wizard of Oz, Apocalypse Now, and Before the Rain.
RELI 20903 – Sophomore Seminar: Religion and Literature
This course explores the present and potential role of novels, religious theory and literary criticism in understanding religion’s nature and function. The seminar’s focus draws from one of the following three topics: “World Faiths, World Fictions,” “Pilgrimage,” and “Nonwestern Christianity.”
RELI 20990 – International Residential Study
This course represents credit earned through a semester study abroad experience with an institution or program with which Texas Christian University has an official agreement to accept credit. The site and specific content will be identified on the official transcript. Courses appearing on a student’s official transcript have been included in the student’s grade point average.
RELI 30003 – Honors Seminar in Religion
Creative dialogue between religion and other disciplines of learning, or aspects of culture.
RELI 30113 – Jesus and the Gospels
A careful look at early Christian gospels, including Thomas, and at how scholars construct a historical Jesus from them.
RELI 30123 – Paul and the Early Church
The developing origins of Christianity, with particular emphasis on Paul and his influence.
RELI 30133 – Religion and the Search for Meaning in the Old Testament
Study of the biblical books of Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Job within their own socio-historic contexts as a basis for investigating some of the fundamental questions of human religious experience, including the function of worship, the relationship of reason and faith, the problem of evil, and the bases of ethical behavior.
RELI 30153 – How to Read the Bible: Story and Politics
Prerequisite: RELI 10003, 10013, or permission of instructor. Explores distinctive characteristics of biblical narrative and investigates why readers produce different interpretations of biblical stories. It asks how social structures and value systems, ancient and modern, affect texts and interpreters.
RELI 30163 – The Bible at the Movies
Prerequisite: RELI 10003, 10013, or permission of instructor. Examines movies based on biblical stories to see how the Bible may be interpreted in words and visual images. Investigates how the Bible’s authority is used to promote particular religious, moral, social, and political values in popular culture.
RELI 30173 – Greco-Roman Religions
A survey of the diverse religious landscape of the Greco-Roman world from the end of the Roman Republic through the third century CE, including the official Roman state religion, Dionysiac/Orphic cult, Isis cult, Mithras cult, Greco-Roman Magic, Hellenistic Judaism and early Christianity.
RELI 30303 – Christian Ethics
An introduction (beginning with the Bible) to major perspectives, with particular focus on developments since the Reformation. The student will argue a contemporary issue from a historical perspective.
RELI 30323 – Christian Tradition: Emergence to the Renaissance
A study of developments in Christian thought, practice, and institutions from the beginnings of the church through the 15th century.
RELI 30333 – Christian Tradition: Reformation To Modernity
A study of developments in Western Christianity from the 16th century
Reformation to the 20th century, with attention to issues of theology,
institutions, and practices. Does not include religion in America.
RELI 30343 – Black Religion in United States
Explores the relationship between “race” and religion, and surveys
African-American religious history in the United States, from the
religious commitments of enslaved Africans to contemporary American
black people’s faiths.
RELI 30353 – The History of Evangelicalism in the U.S.
This course explores the history, development, and characteristics of evangelicalism in the United States. It will proceed both chronologically and topically, focusing more heavily on the post World War II period and contemporary American culture. It will consider a diverse range of personalities, communities, and subjects ranging from Billy Graham and presidential politics to “True Love Waits” and evangelical romance novels.
RELI 30413 – Contemporary Catholicism
Roman Catholicism in the modern period with particular attention given
to the Second Vatican Council and its intellectual and institutional
implications. There will be some emphasis on American Catholicism.
RELI 30433 – Christianity and Contemporary Social Issues
Critical study of the relationship of Christianity to the formation of social
values, to participation in national and international ethical discourse,
and to participation in popular culture in America
RELI 30443 – Religion and Politics in Latin America: The Cross and the Sword
Study will focus on the traditional and newly-emerging interaction of
Judeo-Christian ideas and institutions with the society and politics of
certain Latin American countries. In comparison, the cultural bases of
North American presuppositions about religion and politics will also be
explored. (Also taught as POSC 30503).
RELI 30453 – Sects and Cults in American Religion
The categories “sect” and “cult” in religion studies, with illustrations from
existing groups, both within and outside the Christian tradition, e.g.,
Hasidic Judaism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Christian Science, Baha’i, the
Amish, and Mormonism.
RELI 30463 – Being Latina/o and Religious in the U.S.
This course will investigate the variety of religious life found among U.S.
Latina/o, looking beyond misconceptions, generalizations and
stereotypes.
RELI 30513 – Hindu Religious Perspectives
An exploration of the diverse strands of the Hindu religious tradition
(ritual, philosophical, devotional) from the Vedic period to the modern
day.
RELI 30523 – East Asian Religious Perspectives
Examines the development of Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism.
The course will explore the religious worldviews of these East Asian
traditions in historical and cultural context, as well as issues relating to
the comparative study of religions.
RELI 30533 – Buddhism: Thought and Practice
The development of Buddhism in India, Southeast Asia, Tibet, China,
Japan, and North America. Material will range from the Buddha’s life to
contemporary forms of Buddhism in America.
RELI 30543 – Islam
The Islamic religious tradition from 7th century Arabia to current
resurgence, including social, theological, and mystical dimensions.
Topics include Muslim views of Allah, revelation the Qur’an, and the
Prophet Muhammad. Islam’s encounter with “modernity” will also be
addressed.
RELI 30553 – African Religions
Explores the worldviews, beliefs and practices of African Traditional
Religions. Also examines the impact of Christianity and Islam on African
Traditional Religions since the colonial period.
RELI 30563 – Judaism
The course is an introduction to many of the historical forms and
manifestations of Judaism. The goal of this course is to examine
Judaism conceptually, considering topics such as literature, politics, art,
history and ritual, and to provide the student with a conceptual basis that
will facilitate the comparison of Judaism with other world religions.
RELI 30573 – Daoism and Chinese Religions
This course explores the development of the Daoist tradition in the
context of Chinese popular religions. We will study early Daoist
communities, texts, and practices to advance our understanding of such
religious themes as: the body and the cosmos; magical medicine;
immortality practice; ritual; scripture and revelation; apocalypticism; and
the relationship between “classical” and “popular” religious traditions.
RELI 30633 – Philosophy of Religion
Prerequisite: PHIL 10003 or any religion course. This course is centrally
concerned with issues relating to the rationality and justification of
religious convictions. There is also an interest in the coherence of
religious concepts. Various philosophical models for understanding and
evaluating religious convictions and practices are examined and applied.
RELI 30643 – God in Modern Thought
Prerequisite: 3 semester hours of Religion or Philosophy. An exploration
of ideas of God as they have developed in Western theology and
philosophy since the 17th century. The relation between these ideas and
current models for thinking about God will be stressed.
RELI 30673 – Anthropology and Religion
Prerequisites: ANTH 20623, RELI 10023 or RELI 10043 or consent of
the instructor. Anthropological findings in the comparative study of
religion and culture across a broad range of societies. Studies of sacred
experience, myth, ritual, magic, witchcraft, religious language, gender
and religion, healing, and relationships between social and religious
change.
RELI 30683 – Sociology of Religion
Prerequisite: SOCI 20213, or SOCI 20223 or permission of instructor.
An introduction to understanding the role of religion in society and to
sociological methods for the study of religion. The course will introduce
theories and research pertaining to types of religious experience,
conversion and commitment, denominationalism, secularization and
fundamentalism. Class, gender, race and ethnicity will also be
addressed as they influence religion in society. (Offered as RELI or
SOCI credit.)
RELI 30703 – Liberating God: Liberation and Postcolonial Theologies
An investigation and analysis of discourses within Liberation and
Postcolonial Theologies. An examination of the historical and
sociological development of these new theological understandings of
God, and their relation to the communities where they came from.
RELI 30713 – Women and Womanhood in Western Religion
An exploration of the ways Christianity, Judaism, and Islam have helped
to shape Western attitudes toward women. The lives of representative
women and their influence will be examined in some detail; readings
from religious thinkers on the nature of woman will be studied.
RELI 30723 – Religion and Science
Prerequisites: 3 hours of Religion and any 6 hours from among Biology,
Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geology, Physics, and Psychology.
An exploration of the ways of knowing utilized in religion (particularly the
Judeo-Christian heritage) and in science, and how these ways of
knowing relate.
RELI 30733 – Mysticism
Prerequisite: RELI 10003, 10013 or permission of instructor. An
examination of concepts of mysticism and mystical experience.
Examples will be drawn from Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist sources.
RELI 30743 – Religion, Art and Visual Culture
This course examines interactions between religious practices and the
visual arts in cross-cultural settings. Looking at visual art media such as
architecture, painting, film, landscape, gardens, and calligraphy, the
course will situate these media in specific religious traditions and
practices including Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and
Islam.
RELI 30753 – The Many Faces of Krishna
This course considers the many images of the god Krishna in the literary and religious imagination of the Indian people. After introducing some background of Hindu thought and practice, we shall look at how Krishna appears in different versions and interpretations of the great Indian epic, the Mahabharata, including the famous portion called the Bhagavad Gita. We then examine how Krishna appears in later devotional literature and poetry in the classical Sanskrit tradition, and finally Krishna in popular and regional understandings up to the present day. Credit cannot be granted for both RELI 30773 AND 30753.
RELI 30773 – India: Texts and Traditions
(ENGL 30773) A consideration of selected classic works of religious and
literary imagination in Indian culture. Versions and interpretations of the
Hindu epics Mahabharata and Ramayana will be examined in
translation.
RELI 30783 – Religion and Environmental Ethics
Explores the ethical challenge of increased competition for world
resources. Examines how changing religious understandings of
stewardship, fairness and rights shape moral choice in issues like
distribution of goods, care of nature and population shifts.
RELI 30803 – Religion and News Media
Prerequisites: RELI 10023, or 10033, or 10043, or permission of the
instructor. This course will explore the role of religion, religious ethics
and values in society and news media. Students will study methods of
covering religion, investigate the importance of religion in the news
media, and raise questions about the content of religious news stories.
RELI 30813 – Black Religion and Black Literature
This course explores the religious themes found within black literature
for the purpose of developing new interdisciplinary methods and
validating the use of black literary analysis for the study of black religion.
The course introduces interdisciplinary methods and approaches to
religious inquiry about the nature and meaning of God, religious
experiences, community, and culture. Particular attention will be given
to the black woman’s literary tradition.
RELI 30823 – Jesus in Fiction and Film
Over the past fifty years many creative writers and movie makers have
attempted portraits of Jesus and Christ-figures in fiction and film. This
course will identify the christological themes in these portraits and
examine their importance for the development of contemporary Christian
theology.
RELI 30833 – Theology and Literature
This course probes the Christian theological themes (the reality of God,
the person and work of Jesus Christ, the relationship between good and
evil, the life and mission of the Church, and the idea of life after death)
expressed in various works of post-1945 fiction and the Christian
theological tradition.
RELI 30843 – Latina Feminist Religious Thought
In this course we will investigate and analyze discourses put forward by
Latinas within the religious/theological field and how they fit the larger
picture of Latina Feminisms in the United States.
RELI 30853 – Women in American Religion
Explores the experiences of women in American religion with attention
to the interplay between women’s religious identities and their roles in
the work force, families, and racial, ethnic and/or minority groups.
Readings will be drawn from historical, sociological and theological
works.
RELI 30863 – Religion and Violence
Case studies of religiously inspired violence against those considered
“other” or outside specific religious groups, examined through the lens of
classic and contemporary religious theory. Special attention to the
Middle East and Asia.
RELI 30873 – Islam in America
Explores the growth and spread of Islam in America. Introduces
students to different Islamic groups and how they relate to each other.
Discusses Muslims’ responses to different challenges and criticism of
Islam and Muslims by the media. Explains the roles of African
Americans and women in Islamic institutions in America.
RELI 30883 – Literary Images of God
Prerequisite: RELI 10003, 10013, or permission of instructor. This
course examines the nature and activity of God from a variety of literary
perspectives. One focus is a study of God as the protagonist of a
classic of world literature, namely, the Hebrew Bible. Another focus is
that of God in contemporary novels, short stories, and memoirs.
RELI 30893 – Caribbean Religions
Beginning with an historical account of the origins and development of
religions in the Caribbean, this course views the Neo-African traditions
of Vodoun, Shamanism, Santeria, Rastafarianism, and Obeah through
the prism of contemporary Caribbean literature.
RELI 30970 – Directed Study: Religion
Directed Study in Religion.
RELI 30990 – International Residential Study
This course represents credit earned through a semester study abroad
experience with an institution or program with which Texas Christian
University has an official agreement to accept credit. The site and
specific content will be identified on the official transcript. Courses
appearing on a student’s official transcript have been included in the
student’s grade point average.
RELI 35990 – International Residential Study
This course represents credit earned through a semester study abroad
experience with an institution or program with which Texas Christian
University has an official agreement to accept credit. The site and
specific content will be identified on the official transcript. Courses
appearing on a student’s official transcript have been included in the
student’s grade point average.
RELI 40003 – Senior Honors Research Paper
To be written under the tutorial leadership of members of the faculty.
RELI 40130 – Issues in Biblical Interpretation
Prerequisite: RELI 10003 or permission of instructor. Examination of
issues that arise from the interpretation of biblical texts. The particular
issues studied will be chosen from areas of current interest or from
methodological considerations (such as contemporary hermeneutics,
biblical theology and ethics, or critical methodologies). (3-6 semester
hours)
RELI 40143 – Love and Sex in the Biblical World
Prerequisite: At least six hours in Religion, or permission of instructor.
Critical analysis of gender relationships in biblical literature, society, and
religion, with attention to the relevance of biblical values to today’s
society.
RELI 40313 – The History of Religion in America
A survey of the major events and developments in religion in the United
States, taking into account the development of institutions and thought
patterns in terms of their interaction with the American context.
RELI 40603 – Senior Seminar
Prerequisite: Senior standing and 12 hours in Religion. Capstone
seminar exploring selected issues, themes, or methods in the academic
study of religion.
RELI 40613 – Constructive Global Ethics
A critical study of ethical inquiry in a pluralistic world by focusing on
proposals for a global ethic, scholarship on interreligious dialogue and
research in comparative religious ethics. Students write proposals for
promoting moral consensus on an international issue.
RELI 40700 – Religion in Geographical Context
A seminar dealing with a significant topic such as religion in art, church
history, or contemporary issues, conducted in appropriate locations in
this country or abroad. Specific topic will be defined as course is
scheduled. Admission to course through application by announced
deadline. (1-6 semester hours)
RELI 40733 – Church and State Relations in America
The relationships between religious institutions and civil authority in
America. While providing a historic context for the study, the course is
primarily issue-oriented, dealing with such topics as prayer and Bible
reading in public schools, state aid to parochial schools, conscientious
objection to military service, Sunday closing laws, and taxation of
churches.
RELI 40900 – Projects in Religion
Assigned special problems in religion. (1-3 semester hours)
RELI 50130 – Seminar in Biblical Studies
Prerequisite: approval of instructor. A particular topic in Biblical Studies
will be selected for detailed study. (3-6 semester hours)
RELI 50970 – Directed Study in Religion
1 – 6 semester hours
RELI 10003 Understanding Religion: The Bible. This course considers historical, comparative and methodological issues in the study of religion by focusing on the background and contents of the Hebrew and Christian Bibles and ways these foundational texts inform later Judaism and Christianity.
Major’s should consult course descriptions for classifications of each course in the Course Catalog.
Major Requirement:
REL 219 – First Christians and the New Testament
REL 206 – World Religions
REL 211 – Hebrew Scripture
REL 217 – Christian Sacraments
Comparative Religion Elective
REL 216 – Jesus the Christ
REL 256 – Christian Morality
REL 317 – Christian Ministry
Christian Ethics Elective
REL 499 – Senior Seminar
Advised Electives (10)
Course Descriptions
For the convenience of working professionals with limited time, all courses are offered in an intensive weekend and evening format.
EDU 616 Cognition Across Cultures (3)
This course will provide the graduate student with a broader view of learning in terms of the influence of language on the child’s world view and the ability to process concepts, ideas and problems. Also covered are the impact of culture on the child’s understanding of story, a respect, understanding and valuing of different cultural beliefs and practices, needs for functioning in two worlds, and the focus and importance of various disciplines in other cultures
EDU 670 Standards-Driven Instruction & Assessment (3)
This purpose of this course is to integrate theories of teaching and learning with actual practices of standards-based education. The focus of the course is on the improvement of teaching and learning by putting standards at the forefront of the instructional program. The graduate student will analyze the Ohio Content Standards, National Standards (NCTM, etc.) and other state standards. Interpretation of the standards in order to develop approaches to teaching while maintaining grade level rigor in lieu of adapting instruction to the average or low achiever will also be addressed. The course will also include approaches to standards-based assessment.
EDU 671 Curriculum Development: Theory & Applications (3)
This course presents a critical examination of foundations, principles, concepts, and current practice in the field of curriculum. Topics will include program planning, design, implementation, and evaluation; using a curriculum mapping model for instructional improvement; using collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches to curriculum development within this framework.
EDU 701 Educational Psychology (3)
This course is a study of the teaching/learning process, what learning is and how it occurs according to three major classifications of theories and the correlates of learning – theories of intelligence, cognitive styles, thinking processes, thinking skills, motivation, and creativity. Emphasis is placed on applications to the teaching craft, including classroom dynamics and management, teaching/learning styles, including individual differences of students, the teacher and the classroom environment and measurements.
EDU 702 Ethics for Educators (3)
This course is a story of major ethical theories and their application to educational issues. Ethical case studies are examined. Reflection on personal beliefs concerning correct behavior and the development of a professional code of ethics are important components of this graduate course.
AYA 550 Nature and Needs of Adolescents (3)
In this course, students examine the unique nature and needs of young adolescents in relation to effective secondary teaching practices. Major trends and issues facing secondary classroom teachers are investigated through evaluation of current educational research. Such trends include human development, classroom management, school organization, funding, curriculum, and assessment. Specific secondary instructional strategies are discussed and applied through peer teaching. Reflection of personal beliefs, educational theory, and practice is promoted in the course.
RPS 540 Phil and Meth of Religious Education (3)
The learners investigate various philosophies of religious education. These include their own philosophies, the philosophies of those whom they interview, those proposed through church documents, and those evident in textbooks and other resources. The learners identify the outcome implicit or explicit in these philosophies and the appropriate methodologies to achieve the outcome. The learners develop their own wisdom or religious education and design the appropriate methodology.
RPS 551 Youth Ministry (3)
Wrestle with some of the most current research and thinking on adolescent spirituality. How do Gen X young adults and Millennial youth differ, and what are their unique spiritual needs and challenges? Explore the impact of our postmodern culture on adolescent spirituality, and draw implications for pastoral ministry with youth and young adults. The classroom dynamic includes interaction with panels of youth and young adults.
RPS 553 Innovative Models and Methods of Religious Education (3)
The purpose of this course is to introduce the students to a variety of models and methods for facilitating faith formation. The students examine the rationale for each model in the context of the goal and tasks of catechesis as outlined in church documents. Students examine various methodologies to develop the identified models. Each student designs a session using one of the models with appropriate methodology.
RPS 556 Advanced Catechetical Practicum (3)
This course provides practical parish catechetical experience with the opportunity to apply catechetical theory and evaluative reflection on the experience. Students determine the competencies required for a parish catechetical leader in that specific context. Students also review the dynamics of effecting change as well as use theological reflection as a method of reflection.