Religion

The Department of Religion offers a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of religious traditions. The program aims to develop students' knowledge and interest in Biblical teachings and theology. It prepares them for advanced study in seminary or divinity school. The program also familiarizes students with the cultural diversity of various religious theologies. Upon completion of the major, students will be well-equipped to pursue further study in seminary, and graduates can pursue a career in ministry.

RELIGION BROCHURE

Religion Degree Plan

Religion Course Descriptions

*RELI 1311 – Survey of the Bible (3 credit hours). This course will cover the fundamental elements involved in the development of the Bible as a sacred writing. The process of canonization and biblical sources will also be discussed. Additionally, the course will include readings from both the Old and New Testaments.

RELI 1312 – Comparative World Religions (3 credit hours). This course will delve into the fundamental content of the major religions worldwide. It will take a phenomenological approach to explore the basic doctrinal principles of various religious beliefs.

RELI 1313 – Survey of the Old Testament (3 credit hours). This course will cover the background, content, structure, geography, teachings, meaning, people, and events of each book in the Old Testament.

RELI 1324 – Survey of the New Testament (3 credit hours). This course will examine the New Testament, focusing on Jesus Christ's mission and message, along with the early development of the Christian church. Prerequisites: RELI 1311or 1313.

RELI 2317 – Church History (3 credit hours). Students will study the historical development, teachings, and struggles of the Christian Church from the time of Christ. Prerequisites: RELI 1313 and RELI 1324.

RELI 2318 – The Life and Thoughts of Martin Luther King, Jr. (3 credit hours). Emphasis will be given to Dr. King’s role in shaping the freedom struggle, Civil Rights legislation, and contemporary religious thought.

RELI 2319- Pauline Letters (3 credit hours) In this course, we will seek beyond the broad characterizations that are so often made about a “theology of Paul” – to delve into his specific words, at specific times, on specific topics in the thirteen epistles that are normally ascribed to his pen. Who is he? What texts has he written, and why? For whom? Our goal will be to sharpen the focus on our picture of this remarkable, always controversial figure of faith history. Prerequisites: RELI 1311 and 1324

RELI 2325 – Fundamentals of Morals and Ethics (3 credit hours). It introduces the key themes of morals and ethics, focusing on the development of the framework that guides moral and ethical decision-making. The course also delves into the practical application of these concepts to address contemporary issues. Overall, it aims to equip students with a better understanding of morals and ethics and their relevance in today's world. Prerequisites: RELI 1313 and RELI 1324.

RELI 3311 – Study of African-American Religious Thought (3 credit hours). The course aims to explore the fundamental themes that define the evolution of black theology. Attention is given to the emergence of the Black church during the slave period, and contemporary advancements in Black theology and Womanist theology are also studied.

RELI 3347 - Life and Teachings of Jesus (3 credit hours) When studying the Life and Teachings of Jesus, it is important to harmonize the accounts given in the four gospels. Each Gospel provides a unique contribution to the understanding of the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus Christ. The socio-historical setting of 1st century Palestine, along with the miracles and teachings of Jesus, is also examined with emphasis on how they can be applied to our lives today. Prerequisite: RELI 1313 and RELI 1324

RELI 3312 – Philosophy of Religion (3 credit hours). Students will develop a philosophical perspective on religion through the study of significant historical and modern figures, including Augustine, Aquinas, Kant, Hegel, W.E.B. Dubois, and Cornel West. Prerequisites: RELI 1313 and RELI 1324.

RELI 4318 – Biblical Theology (3 credit hours) This course provides advanced Bible study for creating a Biblically sound theology. It thoroughly examines significant themes such as Creation, Redemption, Promise, Covenant, and Restoration. Prerequisites: Senior standing, RELI 1313 and RELI 1324.

RELI 4322 – Christian Ministry Seminar (3 credit hours). This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Christian ministry through the expertise of various guest speakers including preachers, inspirational speakers, singers, evangelists, pastoral counselors, music ministers, and faith-based activists. It is highly recommended for Religion majors who are interested in pursuing a career in Christian ministry. Prerequisites: Senior standing, RELI 1313 and RELI 1324.

RELI 4329 – Advanced Theology (3 credit hours). The purpose of this course is to help students develop their own systematic presentation of the doctrines of God, Christ, Holy Spirit, Humanity, and the Church. Prerequisites: Senior standing, RELI 1313 and RELI 1324.

*HIST 1301 – History of the United States to 1865 (3 credit hours). This course covers the growth of the Republic from colonial times through the Civil War Period and Reconstruction.

*HIST 1302 – History of the United States Since 1865 (3 credit hours). This is a continuation of the preceding course moving from the end of Reconstruction Period through the growth of the States as a world power.

*HLTH 2281 – Essential Elements of Health (2 credit hours). Principles and practices essential to healthful living are presented. Problems peculiar to the college student attitudes, concepts, and research on designed to focus attention on and promote the development of healthful habits.

* General Education Courses Offered by the Division