Religious Studies Courses
These listings are sourced from Curricunet, and some courses may not be offered every semester. For additional information, contact the academic department, speak with counseling or refer to the current Class Schedule and College Catalog.
RELS 50 - Religions of the World
( 3.00 - Units )
Introduction to the study of religion by (1) surveying the world religions, stating basic principles of each as shown by fundamental scriptures, practices and works of art, highlighting underlying patterns, OR (2) exploring themes and concepts, using the world religions as examples. Themes may include: grace, sin, enlightenment, suffering, salvation.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
- Demonstrate basic yet nuanced understanding of religion from a global perspective.
- Identify tenets, history, and practices of at least five world religious traditions.
- Distinguish between tolerance and pluralism.
RELS 64 - The Nature of Islam
( 3.00 - Units )
Introduction to the nature of Islam as a religion or system for life, its culture and its impact on Muslim individuals and groups. Includes a brief history of Islam and Muslims in relation to the basic sources of Islam.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
- Compare and contrast the similarities and differences between three Abrahamic monotheistic religions
- Identify the development of Islamic tradition and its impact on Muslims.
- Identify the fundamental concepts of the Islamic religion.
RELS 65 - Religions of Asia
( 3.00 - Units )
Religious traditions of Asia. Focus on a small subset of Asia’s great religions. Comparison/contrast of at least three dominant traditions’ religious/philosophical thought and everyday practice. Basic theory in academic study of religion.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
- Compare and contrast the similarities and differences between at least three Asian religious traditions and/or practices.
- Identify fundamental concepts of Buddhism, Taoism, and Shintoism (or other practice).
- Identify the development of the Buddhist tradition and its effect on various practices as seen throughout Asia.
RELS 70 - Spiritual Traditions and Contemporary Voices
( 3.00 - Units )
Selected themes in spirituality. Contemporary and global spirituality will be read in view of how they expand on and/or reinterpret traditional themes. What does it mean to live a spiritual life in the 21st century? How would contemporary people and major issues of our day benefit from a spiritual approach? Themes and practice will be explored.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
- Describe several traditional spiritual themes and discuss contemporary themes in spirituality
- Demonstrate an understanding of the following terms: "spiritual" and "religious."
- Examine works representing a wide range of significant religious concepts or practives (e.g., pilgrimage) in their traditional and contemporary contexts.
- Discuss and/or write about a significant religious concept or practice (e.g., pilgraimage) using multiple sources representing a diversity of practice.