Academic Courses

Religious Studies

RS 101
Introduction to Religion
3-0-3
An introduction to the study of religion as cultural, social and intellectual phenomena. The course teaches students how to interpret influential philosophical, social scientific and theological theories.

RS 151/PHIL 151
World Religions
3-0-3
Introduction to many of the world’s major religious traditions (including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam) as well as other selected ancient and modern religious traditions. The course will also consider the nature and significance of religious experience, the impact of religion on culture, basic approaches to the study of religion, and different theories used to interpret religious beliefs and practices.

RS 152/PHIL 152
Philosophy of Religion
3-0-3
Systematic and historical analysis of philosophical problems of religion, such as the problem of evil and theodicy, the conflict between religion and science, the relationship between faith and reason, the nature of religious language, and arguments about the nature and existence of God.

RS 170/HIST 170
Religion in American History
3-0-3
This course covers the origins, beliefs, practices and cultural significance of the major religious traditions and movements in American history. Close reading and interpretive analysis of primary texts constitute the major course activities.

RS 175
Religions of the Middle East
3-0-3
This course examines the major religious traditions that developed in the Middle East (Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Zoroastrianism) from their origins through their rise and development into the modern period, including their current roles in the region. The course familiarizes students with the beliefs, practices, institutions and historical significance of these traditions. Attention is paid to sacred scriptures, historical developments, political, cultural and social impacts of the religious traditions on the region and the world, relations between the traditions, and the influence of these traditions upon issues and movements in the contemporary Middle East. Prerequisite: ENGL 101.