Minor Requirements
Curriculum
Requirements for a minor are satisfied by successfully completing 20 credits of coursework in religious studies. For course descriptions, please refer to the appropriate department of this catalog.
Required Core Component (1 Course, 4 Credits)
Choose one of the following:
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RS-111 Introduction to World Religions: Western Traditions
Credits:
4.00
Description:
This course will explore the comparative history and structure of Western religious traditions, broadly understood, and their impact on other world religions, while attempting to recognize the similarities and the differences among them. Traditions to be studied include Greek and Roman religion, the monotheistic faiths (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, as well as Zoroastrianism, Sikhism and Bahaism). We will also explore the impact of the Western religions on indigenous traditions, such as African religion, Native American religion, and Pacific Island religion. Attention will be given to the reading of original texts when available. Requiring students to observe religious ceremonies will enhance practical understanding of many of the above traditions. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered every year.
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RS-112 Introduction to World Religions: Eastern Traditions
Credits:
4.00
Description:
This course will examine a variety of Eastern religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Shintoism. Possible connections to be explored will be the impact of these traditions on others, such as Pacific Islands and African religion, as well as the growing place of Eastern religion in the West. This course will explore the history and structure of each tradition, while attempting to recognize the similarities and the differences among them. Attention will be given to the reading of original texts when available. Requiring students to observe religious ceremonies will enhance practical understanding of many of the above traditions. Normally offered every year. Cultural Diversity B
Type:
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Asian Studies
Designated Course Component (4 Courses, 16 Credits)
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ENG-121 History and Literature of the Bible
Credits:
4.00
Description:
Survey of the Old and New Testaments as collections of texts that have their origin in particular historical periods; exhibiting genres such as poetry, myth, history, biography and prophecy, as exhibited in the King James Version and other notable English translations. At the same time we will look at selected examples of how the Bible influenced the writers and permeated the works of English literature.
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requirement
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ENG-317 Classical Mythology
Prerequisites:
ENG 213, ENG 214, ENG 215, ENG 216, ENG 217, or ENG 218
Credits:
4.00
Description:
Ancient Greek and Roman myths, their motifs, themes and interpretations. Normally offered every third year.
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ENG-411 Ancient Greece and Ancient Israel
Prerequisites:
ENG 213, ENG 214, ENG 215, ENG 216, ENG 217, or ENG 218
Credits:
4.00
Description:
A survey of archaic thought from Greek myths of origin and Hebraic accounts of Genesis to Mosaic law and Aristotelian ethics. Major topics include: polytheism and monotheism, the Psalms, Homers Troy, the complexity of desire and identity in the Hebrew Bible and in Sapphos poetry, biblical depictions of Jacob, Joseph, and David. Cross-listed with History 338.
Term:
Occasional
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GVT-208 Politics / Religion
Credits:
4.00
Description:
This course explores what major religions say about the status and responsibilities of the state and how, in turn, selective states have, in theory and practice, structured the place of religions in political life. Particular attention is given to issues of politics and religion in the United States. Cultural Diversity A
Type:
Cultural Diversity Opt A,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
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HST-338 Ancient Greece & Ancient Israel
Credits:
4.00
Description:
A survey of archaic thought from Greek myths of origin and Hebraic accounts of Genesis to Mosaic law and Aristotelian ethics. Major topics include: polytheism and monotheism, Homers Troy, the pre-Socratic philosophers and early conceptions of the universe; the complexities of desire and identity in the song of Songs and Sapphos lyric poetry; Gods covenant with Israel as depicted in Exodus, Samuel, and the Psalms; self-knowledge and justice in Greek tragedy. Note: This course is identical to ENG 411 and HUM 338.
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requirement
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PHIL-260 Philosophy of Religion
Credits:
4.00
Description:
This course analyzes and interprets fundamental religious concepts and beliefs, examines the rational support for religious faith, and addresses the relation between religion and society. Fundamental questions concerning the nature and existence of God, salvation, and immortality will be explored, and for this the primary focus will be Western religious conceptions but may broaden to include other world religions. Other topics may include: whether all religions can be equally valid and true; the relation of religion and the state; the status of miracles; the history and psychology of religion; the conflict between religion and science. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years.
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requirement
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PHIL-261 Eastern Philosophy
Credits:
4.00
Description:
The exposition and critical evaluation of Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Islam. Special attention is given to foundation principles as well as to the similarities and differences of each of these philosophies to basic ideas in Western philosophy. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years. C b
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Cultural Diversity BFA,Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requireme
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PHIL-262 Buddhism
Credits:
4.00
Description:
An historical survey of Buddhist philosophy. We will explore Buddhist origins, central teachings, devotional and meditational practices, ritual and institutions as developed from classical to modern times. Special attention given to the philosophical diversity of the Buddhist world view. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years. C b
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Cultural Diversity BFA,Asian Studies
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PHIL-263 Native American Religion
Credits:
4.00
Description:
This course is an examination of Native American (Indian) religious experience, both the similarities and differences among the myths and rituals of the major tribes which comprise the background of our nations history of Western migration and settlement. The emphasis will be on understanding how life was experienced by these peoples through a close look at the philosophical meanings of their mythology and ethics. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years. C a
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Cultural Diversity Opt A
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PHIL-265 Women in Spirituality
Credits:
4.00
Description:
An exploration into the various dimensions and ideologies concerning the role of the feminine in relation to the Divine. Belief systems, myths and archetypes from ancient Goddess worship to 20th century feminist theology will be examined in terms of the philosophical content and psychological consequences. Special emphasis will be placed on feminist metaphysical structures for understanding consciousness and Reality. Classes will be conducted by means of lectures, primary and secondary texts and class discussions. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity A
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Cultural Diversity BFA,Cultural Diversity Opt A
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PHIL-267 Chinese Philosophy
Credits:
4.00
Description:
A survey of the main developments in Chinese Philosophy. The course begins with the early dynastic concept of humanism and then turns to Confucius and Mencius. Having developed the central Confucian doctrines, students next examine the Taoist response to Confucianism in the writings of Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu. The course then considers Zen Buddhism, which is called Chan Buddhism in China, where it originated. In particular, students study the concept of sudden enlightenment before turning to the Neo-Confucian scholars.
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Cultural Diversity Opt B
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PHIL-310 Topics in the Philosophy of Religion
Prerequisites:
Prerequisite: One course in Philosophy or consent of instructor.
Credits:
4.00
Description:
This course provides an opportunity to explore in depth a specific topic in the philosophy of religion. Subjects vary from specific authors or religious figures to particular issues in the philosophy of religion or to comparisons between Western and Eastern traditions. Prerequisite: One course in Philosophy or consent of instructor. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered every third year.
Term:
Occasional
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PHIL-330 African Philosophy and Religion
Prerequisites:
One course in Philosophy or consent of instructor.
Credits:
4.00
Description:
This course explores indigenous African systems of thought, modern academic African philosophy, African social and political theory, and contemporary debates centered on questions of identity, modernity, essentialism and historicity within the African context. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered every third year. C b
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Cultural Diversity Opt B
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RS-301 Reason and Revelation
Credits:
4.00
Description:
Traces the evolution of Judaism, Christianity and Islam to the High Middle Ages to explore the role of Neo-Platonism and Aristotelianism in clarifying and explaining dogma. Particular attention will be paid to ideas about the ways of knowing and rational proofs of Gods existence in Philo of Alexandria, Augustine, Anselm, Ibn Rushd (Averroes), Aquinas and Maimonides. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered in alternate years.
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SOC-226 Religion in Contemporary Society
Credits:
4.00
Description:
An examination of the fundamental purpose and functions of religion in society. Major religious systems in America are analyzed in terms of basic values and structure. The impact of changes in religious organizations upon clergy, laity and society are discussed.
Term:
Occasional
Type:
Expanded Classroom Requirement
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RS-510 Independent Study
Credits:
1.00- 4.00
Description:
Students meet with a department member to pursue advanced studies in areas of particular interest to them.
Special Topics
Some students may wish to include specialized research in their minor. They may do so by including as part of their program an independent study course of a field study project.
