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2018-2019 College of Liberal Arts (Admitted Fall 2018/Spring 2019) [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Course Descriptions
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PSYC 375 - Community-Based Learning in Psychology 4 credits
This course is a community-based learning course, focused on making conenctions between a psychological topic and some form of applied work in the community. Amount of credit established at the time of registration. Students should expect to devote some hours to work with community organizations beyond the established class time. Course may be repeated as topic changes. CLA-Off Campus Experience
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PSYC 394 - Directed Research in Psychology 1-4 credits
Laboratory or field experience in psychology. Students participate in weekly lab meetings and all phases of ongoing psychological research. Final paper required. Number of credits are established at the time of registration. May be repeated for credit up to four times. Enrollment priority: Limited enrollment; consult department chair. Prerequisite: PSYC 101 and PSYC 211 . Offered each semester.
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PSYC 396 - Independent Research in Psychology 2-4 credits
Independent laboratory or field research in psychology on a topic chosen in consultation with a faculty sponsor. A final research report is required. An approved research proposal is required prior to the beginning of the research project. Amount of credit established at time of registration. Prerequisite: PSYC 101 , PSYC 211 , and PSYC 312 . Signature of instructor is required for registration.
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PSYC 400 - Capstone Experience in Psychology 2 credits
A reflection on and integration of psychological concepts, principles, research, and theories and their application to real-world situations and problems. CLA-Capstone
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PSYC 410 - Specialized Honors in Psychology I 0 - 8 credits
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PSYC 411 - Specialized Honors in Psychology II 0 - 8 credits
CLA-Capstone
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REL 101 - Introduction to World Religions 4 credits
An introduction to the study of religion through an examination of the world religions of Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Students are introduced to the historical method of analyzing the making of each tradition over time, and to the comparative method of analyzing patterns across traditions towards creating a globally accurate definition of religion. The course investigates the variety of ways in which each tradition establishes beliefs and values, and its mobilization of them in experiences and practices. Through field trips to sacred spaces currently used for worship of each tradition in the U.S. context, the course explores religion’s connections with public space, community, and the arts. Offered spring semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International, CLA-Diversity US
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REL 102 - Introduction to World Religions - Off Campus Experience 0 credits
This course is the optional Off-Campus Experience component of REL 101 ; students who choose this option must concurrently enroll in REL 101 . Enrollment in REL 102 is not required for enrollment in REL 101 . Students enrolled in REL 102 will need to complete extra assignments in addition to the required assignments for REL 101 . These extra assignments include: 1) Attending all five field trips, 2) returning for independent study to one of the houses of worship, 3) attending a special day-long field trip to museums in New York City, and 4) writing a minimum four page paper on these extra assigned experiences. These extra assignments are fully explained on the syllabus. CLA-Off Campus Experience
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REL 130 - Introduction to the New Testament 4 credits
A study of the development of early Christian thought based on its earliest writings. Gives special treatment to the pre-literary origins of the gospel tradition, historical context and variety of early theological assessments of Jesus of Nazareth, and the development of Gentile Christianity out of Jewish Christianity. Offered fall semester CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Writing Intensive
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REL 201 - Intermediate Topics in Religion 4 credits
This course examines topics in the study of religion at the intermediate level. The focus of this course will be on religions and their relevance within the United States. The course introduces students to the nature of religion as a defined area of human experience through beliefs, practices, and cultural identity. The course introduces students to methods such as phenomenological, thematic, historical, or comparative perspectives to analyze religious phenomena. May be repeated as topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 202 - Intermediate Topics in Religion: United States 4 credits
This course examines topics in the study of religion at the intermediate level. The focus of this course will be on religions and their relevance within the United States. The course introduces students to the nature of religion as a defined area of human experience through beliefs, practices, and cultural identity. The course introduces students to methods such as phenomenological, thematic, historical, or comparative perspectives to analyze religious phenomena. Topics will vary. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity US
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REL 203 - Intermediate Topics in Religion: International 4 credits
This course examines topics in the study of religion at the intermediate level. The focus of this course will be on religions and their relevance around the world. The course introduces students to the nature of religion as a defined area of human experience through beliefs, practices, and cultural identity. The course introduces students to methods such as phenomenological, thematic, historical, or comparative perspectives to analyze religious phenomena. Topics will vary. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 204 - Native American Religions 4 credits
This course investigates the origins of Native American religions, how they have changed, the reasons for those changes, and how Native Americans have influenced the beliefs of non Native Americans. History is the primary lens for this exploration. Issued such as Native American’s relationship with nature and the supernatural are analyzed. Core concepts are presented and critically assessed with an emphasis on why Native Americans understandings mat differ from those of other religious groups. In the depth case studies are included, for example of Pueblos, Tainos, and Lakotas. The case studies may vary from year to year. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 206 - Sociology of Religion 4 credits
An introduction to the sociology of religion. Discusses classical and contemporary theorists such as Marx, Weber, Durkheim, Wuthnow, Corbett, Bellah; explores the practical everyday world of religion; and analyzes the influence of cultural and social factors on religion. Organizing themes vary from year to year. Same as: SOC 206 . Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 207 - Women and Religion 4 credits
A cross-cultural consideration of images of women in myth and scripture as related to women’s actual roles in religious institutions and in societies at large. Signature of instructor required for registration. Same as: CHSOC+417S. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 208 - Religions of Africa 4 credits
An introduction to the basic themes within the traditional religions of Africa, including the nature of God, the significance of creation myths, the role of ancestors, the importance of religious leaders, and the problem of evil, sickness, and death. Explores the problematic Christian encounter with African religions, the Semitic connection and African Islam, and the role and function of the Independent African-Christian Churches. Same as: ANTH 208 and PAST 208 . Offered fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary, CLA-Diversity International, CLA-Writing Intensive
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REL 210 - Writing in the Discipline in the Study of Religion 2 credits
This two-credit course may be used to fulfill the Writing in the Major requirement. It must be taken on a co-requisite basis with a four-credit course in the department. In REL 210, students analyze materials covered in the four-credit course in greater depth, especially through the focus of what specific challenges are involved in writing about religion in academic essays. In addition to writing assignments done in fulfillment of the four-credit course, in REL 210 students write short papers on methods and approaches to writing in religion, and revise essays assigned in the four-credit course to demonstrate knowledge of ways in which writing about religion shapes knowledge of religion. Open only to students majoring in Religious Studies. Corequisite: any intermediate course in Religious Studies. CLA-Writing in the Major
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REL 211 - Judeo-Christian Ethics 4 credits
An examination of different ethical theories and approaches in Judeo-Christian traditions. Examines special topics, such as marriage, divorce, romantic love, human sexuality, and friendship, from perspectives in traditional and contemporary Protestantism, Catholicism, and Judaism. Gives attention to certain topics in political thought, environmental, and medical ethics. Offered fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 212 - Social Ethics 4 credits
An examination of various current and perennial problems in social morality. Topics included are natural law, the role of religion in the state, the morality of politics, economic justice, civil rights, civil liberties, gender issues, race issues, patriotism, capital punishment, warfare, ethics and business, and ethics and medicine. Offered spring semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 213 - Warfare and Ethics 4 credits
Moral and religious issues in warfare, including classical and contemporary views. The course will cover but not be limited to the following: Christian just war doctrine, moral realism and war, the rules of war, war crimes, guerrilla warfare, terrorism, nuclear weapons, spying and espionage, and war in Jewish and Islamic thought. Offered spring semester in even-numbered years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 214 - Business Ethics 4 credits
A philosophical and theological study of those ethical, religious, and social issues that play an important role in thinking morally about economic and business practices. Attention is paid to practical ethical problems arising out of the functional areas of management and the wider areas of business and social responsibility in relation to the community, ecology, minorities, the role of multinationals and public safety. Same as: PHIL 214 Offered spring semester and occasional summers CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 216 - Bio-Medical Ethics 4 credits
An examination of the issues from religious and ethical perspectives. Topics include physician-patient relationships, death and dying, obtaining organs and tissues for transplantation, patient competence, assisted suicide and euthanasia, abortion, reproductive technologies, genetic testing and engineering, stem cell research and cloning, experiments on humans, rationing health care, and justice and public health. Equivalent to:PHIL 216 Offered fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 218 - Environmental Ethics 4 credits
The course provides a study of the moral and religious aspects of such problems in human ecology as pollution, overpopulation, resource depletion, animal rights, global justice and much more. The course relates these issues to religious perspectives of human nature, responsibilities to the earth and to future generations. While the ecological data and principles prove indispensable, the primary intent of the course is to focus on how people make the date speak, on what they bring to ecological issues, on methods, on assumptions, and on language. This will require critical thinking skills such as analyzing, evaluating, and comparing. Offered in spring semester of odd numbered years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary
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REL 219 - Christian Fantasy Literature from King Arthur to The Lord of the Rings 4 credits
This course provides an analysis of Christian fantasy literature from its Medieval formation through the twentieth century. The course will draw upon the major works of fantasy literature with decidedly Christian themes of morality and religion. The major authors include: Thomas Malory, Oscar Wilde, George MacDonald, Charles Williams, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkein. The course will trace how these authors used the elements of the fantastic to explore moral and theological themes in a classical Christian context. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Writing Intensive
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REL 220 - The Jewish Experience: An Introduction to Judaism 4 credits
A survey of the basic religious doctrines, ritual practice, and philosophical schools of the Jewish religion, from biblical times to the present. The course includes the analysis of Jewish theology, rational philosophy, mysticism, messianism, religious ceremonies, family life-cycle, and rites of passage, as well as universal concepts. Same as: JWST 220 . CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 222 - Introduction to the Hebrew Bible 4 credits
A study of religious developments in ancient Israel in their historical contexts. Emphasizes the understandings of Israel as covenant people of God, the relation of religious understandings to historical and social circumstances, the role of prophecy, and the religious restoration following the exile. Offered fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 224 - Selected Topics in Jewish Studies 4 credits
This course examines specific aspects of the Jewish Religion, such as medieval Jewish thought, Modern Jewish thought, the Jewish Scholastic tradition, Kabbalah and Jewish Mysticism, major Jewish thinkers, monotheism, deism and pantheism in Jewish theology, etc. Course may be repeated Offered fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 231 - Introduction to Christianity 4 credits
An examination of major and minor Christian traditions and their various approaches to rituals, symbolization, beliefs, morality, and governance. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 234 - Introduction to Early Christianity 4 credits
This course traces the history of Christianity from the death of Jesus to the break up of the Roman empire (seventh century) and the rise of Islam. Important theological questions (such as: who is Jesus [Christology]; what does he do [soteriology]; the nature of God; why is there evil in the world [theodicy]) are considered and placed in the context of ancient Roman history and philosophy. These considerations help us to understand the meaning of Christian martyrdom, the effect of Constantine’s conversion, the origins of Christian worship and sacred space (Constantine’s St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, in particular), ecclesiastical and clerical orders (bishops and priests, for example), monasticism, the doctrine of “original sin,” and apocalyptic expectations. The appeal of alternate Christianities such as Gnosticism and Arianism and the decline of Classical religion are also considered. Offered fall semester in even-numbered years. Offered fall semester in even-numbered years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 235 - Introduction to Medieval Christianity 4 credits
This course traces the history of Christianity from the break up of the Roman Empire to the reformations of the sixteenth century (Protestant and Catholic). Important topics include: the rise of the Papacy, the break with Byzantine Christianity, monasticism, sacred space, the medieval “discovery of the self,” the mendicant orders (Franciscans and Dominicans), Eucharistic theology, the origins of the university, natural theology, late medieval mysticism, and the break up of Christendom in the sixteenth century. “Popular” religious practices, such as cults of the saints, miracles, and the unique artistic genius of the medieval cathedral are placed in a broader context. Fruitful Christian coexistence as well as violent conflict with Islam and Judaism are also considered, as are the multiplicity of “heretical” Christianities (including Catharism and Waldensians). Offered spring semester in even-numbered years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 238 - Crusade and Jihad Then and Now 4 credits
This course investigates and compares the relgious origins of the ideas of crusade and jihad. In both cases a devotional practice became militarized; we will discuss how these practices became militarized both theologically and practically. We consider the contested spaces of the Mediterranean, including Jerusalem, that fostered the delvelopment of these forms of religious warfare. We will then examine how these ideas became transformed in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries in movements and events as varied as romanticism, the Red Cross, colonialism, World War I, Pan-Arabism, and Wahhabism. All of these reimagined, idealized, and represented the medieval world (Latin or Arabic) so as to promote radically different agendas. Same as: HIST 238 . Offered fall semester in even-numbered years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 239 - Topics in Christian Culture 4 credits
This course examines particular issues in the study of Christianity from the vantage of cultural studies. Topics will vary but include theology, devotional and ritual practice, history, and art. Approaches will be drawn from across disciplines and include anthropological, art historical, historical and literary methods. Students will be examined on and write about both primary materials and secondary scholarship pertaining to the semester’s topic. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary
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REL 240 - Dante: Hell, Heaven & Florence 4 credits
This course considers one of the most influential authors in the Western world. We will take the entire spiritual journey from hell to heaven and of Dante’s Divine Comedy and consider it in Dante’s medieval intellectual, literary and political context. In addition to the Comedy, we read selections from Dante’s On Monarchy and The New Life. Other primary texts include selections from Aquinas, Bonaventure, Guido Cavalcanti, Boccaccio’s Life of Dante, and Dino Compagni’s Chronicle of Florence, along with other contemporary chronicles as we examine medieval Florence and the intellectual background of the Comedy. This course is a seminar emphasizing class discussion and written research assignments of different lengths. This counts as an Italian “Language in Context” course. The course employs a student-generated “geographic database” as a research tool. This database of primary texts and images allows the students to rapidly immerse themselves in Dante’s contemporary Florence and better understand how Dante used the particular details of his surroundings to build poetic image and metaphor. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary, CLA-Writing in the Major
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REL 241 - Studies in the Gospels 4 credits
A detailed consideration of materials in the canonical and noncanonical gospels. Focuses on the variety of ways in which Jesus and his message were understood. Course may be repeated. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 242 - The Pauline Epistles 4 credits
An analysis of the letters of Paul, leading to an understanding of his significance in early Christianity and his contributions to subsequent Christian thought. Offered spring semester in even-numbered years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Writing Intensive, CLA-Writing in the Major
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REL 244 - Eastern Christianity I 4 credits
History of the four Ancient Patriarchates and the seven separated churches of the East until the time of the Roman Schism. Same as: CHIST+227. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 245 - Eastern Christianity II 4 credits
The Orthodox Church from the 11th century to the present; later history of the separated churches: the Uniates, Eastern dissenters, and Protestant Oriental communities. Same as: CHIST+228. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 248 - Contemporary American Catholicism 4 credits
An introduction to Roman Catholic life and thought as experienced in the United States, with emphasis upon the church’s ongoing pursuit of aggiornamento (rethinking basic issues) in such areas as doctrine, ecclesial structures, and problems of the modern world. Focuses on the dialectic between institutional conformity and the American democratic ideal of personal freedom, between traditional consciousness and contemporary culture, between the dynamics of human existence and dogmatic and moral tenets. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 249 - Modern Christian Lay Theologians 4 credits
A study of the works of selected 19th- and 20th-century Christian lay persons, many of them literary figures. The list of such nonprofessional and unofficial theologians includes Dostoevsky, Soren Kierkegaard, Khomiakov, Solovyov, Chesterton, Belloc, Charles Williams, Dorothy Sayers, C. S. Lewis, and T. S. Eliot. Announcement of specific figures to be studied is made in advance of course registration. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 250 - Introduction to Islam 4 credits
A broad introduction to the world’s second largest religion. Topics covered include a brief historical overview of the life and mission of the Prophet Muhammad, the rise of the early Islamic community, and the formation of Islamic civilization. Additional units focus on the nature and structure of the Qur’an, the role of Islamic law, aspects of ritual practice, and expressions of Muslim spirituality. Relying heavily on primary textual sources in translation, students consider issues such as the relationship between religion and politics, women and society, and themes of unity and variety in the Islamic tradition. Offered fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 252 - Introduction to the Qur’an 4 credits
A thematic and historical investigation of the central document of Islamic revelation. Devotes special attention to understanding conceptions of God, humanity, nature, community, holy law, prophethood, history, eschatology, and cosmology as reflected in both the Qur’an and in early Muslim theology. Seeks to provide historical and contextual appreciation of the Qur’an in various aspects of Islamic thought and practice. Comparison with both the Jewish and Christian scriptural tradition is encouraged where appropriate. Offering to be determined.
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REL 254 - Religion and Society in Modern Egypt 4 credits
An interdisciplinary examination of the role and place of religion in modern Egyptian society. Examines issues such as the impact of religion on the family, on politics, on education, and on various aspects of contemporary Egyptian intellectual and cultural life. Employs literature and film, as well as historical, sociological, anthropological, political science, and religious studies approaches to the study of religion. Focuses on comparing and contrasting Muslim and Christian experiences. Signature of instructor required for registration. Offering to be determined.
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REL 256 - Religion and Politics: Radical Islamic Movements 4 credits
An examination of modern currents in Islamic thought, focusing on the relation of religion to both political life and modernity. Emphasizes appreciating the diversity of contemporary Islamic thought through a reading of primary texts in translation. Evaluates both the continuities and contrasts between classical and modern Islamic thought. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International, CLA-Writing Intensive
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REL 258 - The Sufi Path: Studies in Islamic Mysticism 4 credits
Mysticism has historically served as one of the three great paths to faith in the Islamic tradition. This course locates Islamic mysticism, or Sufism, within the larger context of Islamic spirituality. Explores the rich legacy of mysticism in Islam from its pre-Islamic roots through to the present. The primary approach to Sufism in this course is through examining the seminal texts of the great Sufi masters in translation. Offering to be determined.
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REL 260 - History and Culture of South Asia: Tradition & Today 4 credits
A survey course on foundational cultural ideas and practices that define and are characteristic of South Asia, foregrounding India, as they are instituted and developed through time in religion and related literature, arts and social practices. The course centrally deploys the methodologies of history and regional historical comparison. Thematic topics include social definitions of community, traditional depictions of status according to class and gender, and the creation of paths of ethical behavior that promote social cohesion. The course explores these themes through historical interactions among traditions as well as challenges to and the use of tradition in the present day. Primary texts in translation, art and documentary film are central to the course of study. Offered fall semester. Offered fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 264 - Topics in Asian Religions 4 credits
An in-depth study of a selected religious topic pertaining to South Asian, Southeast Asian, and East Asian cultures, considered either comparatively or specific to one of the cultures. Topics vary from year to year. Uses a variety of methodologies, including history, anthropology, art history, and textual studies. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 270 - History and Culture of East Asia: Tradition & Today 4 credits
A survey course on foundational cultural ideas and practices that define and are characteristic of East Asia, foregrounding China and Japan, as they are instituted and developed through time in religion and related literature, arts and social practices. The course centrally deploys the methodologies of history and regional historical comparison. Thematic topics include social definitions of community, traditional depictions of status according to class and gender, and the creation of paths of ethical behavior that promote social cohesion. The course explores these themes through historical interactions among traditions as well as challenges to and the use of tradition in the present day. Primary texts in translation, art and documentary film are central to the course of study. The course includes field trips to Japanese traditional institutions devoted to the practice of Zen and the Way of Tea (Chado) in New York City. Offered spring semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 290 - Comparative Religion 4 credits
An intermediate course in the study of Comparative Religion. This course introduces students to the comparative method in the study of religion through the consideration of a topical aspect of religion across Eastern and Western religions. Past topics have included pilgrimage, marriage in world religions, and devotional literature in world religions. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Same as: HIST+52. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 291 - Comparative Religion: US Topics 4 credits
An intermediate course in the study of Comparative Religion. This course introduces students to the comparative method in the study of religion through the consideration of a topical aspect of religion across Eastern and Western religions. Past topics have included pilgrimage, marriage in world religions, devotional literature in world religions. This course focuses on engaging the comparative study of religion with religions in the United States. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity US
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REL 292 - Comparative Religion: International Topics 4 credits
An intermediate course in the study of Comparative Religion. This course introduces students to the comparative method in the study of religion through the consideration of a topical aspect of religion across Eastern and Western religions. Past topics have included pilgrimage, marriage in world religions, devotional literature in world religions. This course focuses on engaging the comparative study of religion with religions in international countries. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 295 - The Problem of Evil in World Religions 4 credits
This seminar offers a comparative examination of how Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism define evil and explain its existence in the world. Topics considered include why bad things happen to good people, why there is suffering in the world and, in traditions with a notion of a benevolent and all-knowing divinity, why the divinity allows evil and suffering to exist. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International, CLA-Writing Intensive
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REL 296 - Cosmology in World Religions 4 credits
This seminar explores how five major world religions, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism, explain the origins and nature of the cosmos. Through classical texts in translation, students will compare how these five major religions understand how the universe came into existence, how it is ordered, what the purposes of the created universe are and how study of the cosmos reveals deeper understanding of the nature of ultimate sacred reality. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International, CLA-Writing Intensive
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REL 297 - Comparative Fundamentalism 4 credits
An examination of the rise of religious fundamentalism in comparative perspective. Topics to be covered include the historical development of fundamentalism, the nature and organization of contemporary fundamentalism, the relationship between fundamentalism and the family, state, and education, and the significance of fundamentalism in domestic and international politics. Specific attention is given to case studies of the history and religious culture of fundamentalism in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, and comparisons between Western and Eastern religions, traditions will be made. The perspective of the course is sociological and theological, but the ethical and political issues and dilemmas raised by these groups will also be considered. Same as: SOC 297 . Offered fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 301 - Religions of the Ancient Near East 4 credits
A study of the religions of Mesopotamia (Sumeria, Babylonia, Assyria), Egypt, Anatolia, and Syria-Palestine (Canaan, Aram) through analysis of literature and archaeological remains. Focuses on general religious questions and the interrelationship of Israel and other ancient Near Eastern cultures. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 302 - Greek and Roman Religions 4 credits
An introduction to the religious thought and practices of the ancient Greeks, Romans, and (in this context) the early Christians. Topics include ritual, worship, and sacrifice; beliefs about the underworld and afterlife; the ancient mystery cults and the rise of Christianity; philosophical challenges to religion; the conflict of paganism and Christianity. Emphasis is placed on original literary, artistic, and archaeological sources. Prerequisite: A previous Classics course (preferably CLAS 215 ) or a previous REL course. Same as: CLAS 302 . Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 304 - Religion in America 4 credits
A historical approach to American religious developments. The goal is to understand religious dimensions of the pluralistic nature of society in the United States. Topics will vary by course offering but are likely to include a consdierationb of varieties of Christianity in the United States, including Puritanism, the Great Awakening, the Enlightenment, Revivalism, the rise of denominationalism, the emergence of sects and cults. Topics may also include African-American religion, civil religion, the interactions among Protestants, Catholics. and Jews in American society, and Middle Eastern and Asian religions in America. Course may be repeated as topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity US
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REL 310 - Independent Study for Writing in the Discipline of the Study of Religion 2 - 4 credits
This course is for students who seek to develop their writing in the Study of Religion by a self-designed research project undertaken with a full-time faculty member in the Religion department. The work in fulfillment of the course study involves discussion of the nature of and issues in writing in the discipline of Religion as relevant to the student’s project topic, and the project will result in a research paper. CLA-Writing in the Major
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REL 312 - Classical Morality & Religious Ethics from Plato to Machiavelli 4 credits
The course provides a history of classical moral thinking, both philosophical and theological, in the West by tracing this thought through Greek, Roman, and Christian philosophers, theologians, historians, dramatists, and Italian Renaissance Republicans. We will pay particular attention to how this intellectual history, found in philosophers and theologians, interacts with popular classical morality and piety as found in classical historians and dramatists, medieval morality dramatists, and biography. Topics to be covered will include but not be limited to: the nature of morality, moral realism, moral virtue, the relationship between tragedy and virtue, the goal of happiness and inner peace in the face of adversity, the interaction of religion and morality, love, marriage, friendship, sexual relations, raising children, and political ethics. The course will conclude with an overview of the recent revival of classical morality in religious and philosophical ethics. Offered Fall semester in even years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 320 - Seminar in Jewish Studies 4 credits
An in-depth study of a specific religious or philosophical aspect of Judaism, with an emphasis on the critical analysis of primary sources and traditional texts. Course may be repeated. Same as: JWST 320 . CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 330 - Seminar in Christianity 4 credits
This course examines advanced questions in the study of Christianity. Topics will vary but include theology, ritual practice, history, and art. Students are expected to conduct primary research rooted in an understanding of relevant scholarship. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Writing Intensive
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REL 332 - The Reformation: Theology, Society, and Devotion 4 credits
This course begins by examining the origins of reformation in the history of Christianity. We trace some of the key questions that become central to the fifteenth- and sixteenth- century reformers. Topics will include: the nature, language and availability of the Bible; papal power; devotional practices (prayer books, indulgences, and the Eucharist); and grace and free will. We shall examine the critiques of these practices and theologies by reformers such as Wycliffe, Hus, Erasmus, Luther, Zwingli, and Calvin. We shall also examine the Catholic reformation, the Council of Trent and the origins of Roman Catholicism. Other topics include the rise of the modern state, witchcraft, Inquisition, and women as reformers and objects of reform. The final portion of the course will focus on the English Reformation and work directly with Drew’s 16th- and 17th- century collection of English prayer books in the Maser Collection. The course will have a midterm examination, and essays leading to a final research paper. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 350 - Seminar in Islamic Studies 4 credits
An intensive study of special topics in this field. Offering to be determined.
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REL 360 - Seminar in Asian Religions 4 credits
An advanced seminar-format study of a selected religious topic pertaining to South Asian, Southeast Asian, and East Asian cultures, considered either comparatively or specific to one of the cultures. Topics vary from year to year. Uses a variety of methodologies, including historical, anthropological, art historical, sociological and literature studies, on an interdisciplinary basis with the study of religion. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 362 - Women in Asian Traditions 4 credits
This course critically examines traditional definitions of gender and the ways women both enact and challenge such definitions in the present day in Asia , through our reading of contemporary ethnographic (field research) studies on women and religion. The methodology of the course is to examine ways in which cultural history is both affirmed and changed in the present, through study of scholarly theories of intersections between the academic disciplines of history , ethnography and the history of religions . We perform gender analysis to contrast women ‘s social agency in past and present in order to situate the opportunities they have to participate in the shaping of tradition today, and to examine ways in which contemporary women are actively and authoritatively redefining tradition to shape their everyday lives in social and political context, engaging traditional cultural values in new definitions of rights and ways of acting in society. The world region/s of focus - South Asia, Southeast Asia, and/or East Asia- will vary by offering. Same as WGST 363 , HIST 362 . CLA-Diversity International, CLA-Writing Intensive
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REL 364 - South Asia Through Art and Text 4 credits
This course introduces students to the study of South Asia religions through both art and text. The course explores the relationships between these two major avenues of historical and contemporary record that are available to us for the study of religion. In exploring the dynamic interaction between art and text, we take into consideration the respective properties of each medium, including text’s unfolding of story over the time it takes to read, while art favors an immediate visual impact. We also explore relevant contextual issues in South Asian history, aesthetics and authorship. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Arts, CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 365 - History of India: Medieval to Modern 4 credits
This course covers medieval to modern history of India, surveying classical to colonial modes of social order through Independence (1947), with selective post-colonial materials. Major topics include the shift from governance by imperial divine right to the colonialist empire, the project to redefine India as a nation, Gandhi’s theories of non-violent resistance and self-rule, women’s status and participation in defining modernity, partition and Kashmir, and post-colonial identity and priorities. The course engages a rich variety of primary materials, such as traditional legal treatises, courtly chronicles, fine art and monuments, speeches, and documentary film to study major developments in medieval to modern history of India. Equivalent: HIST 365 . CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 372 - Global Women’s History 4 credits
This course considers global patterns in women’s history, prioritizing Africa, Asia and the Middle East to explore women’s experiences as they are both distinctively cultural and resonant across cultures. A topical framework will enable comparative analysis, and will always include gender as a central mode of analysis, analysis of historiographical issues in constructing global women’s history and analysis of religion’s role in generating, maintaining and critiquing cultural definitions of gender. Specific topics within this framework may include women’s participation in revolutions, religious movements, feminism, politics and the workforce, among other possibilities. A focus of the study is a variety of primary sources, films and field research studies. Same as HIST 372 . Same as WGST 372 . CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary, CLA-Diversity International, CLA-Writing Intensive.
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REL 374 - Comparative Religion 4 credits
An advanced-level course in the study of Comparative Religion. This course engages students who have already completed coursework in Religious Studies with an advanced level of the comparative method in the study of religion, through the consideration of a topical aspect of religion across Eastern and Western religions. Topics may include textual, ritual, or artistic comparative themes across the religions. Attention is paid to issues that define the responsible practice of academic comparison among divergent religious traditions. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 375 - Comparative Religions: US Topics 4 credits
An advanced-level course in the study of Comparative Religion. This course engages students who have already completed coursework in Religious Studies with an advanced level of the comparative method in the study of religion, through the consideration of a topical aspect of religion across Eastern and Western religions. Topics may include textual, ritual, or artistic comparative themes across the religions. Attention is paid to issues that define the responsible practice of academic comparison among divergent religious traditions. This course focuses on engaging the comparative study of religion with religions in the United States. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity US
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REL 376 - Comparative Religion: International Topics 4 credits
An advanced-level course in the study of Comparative Religion. This course engages students who have already completed coursework in Religious Studies with an advanced level of the comparative method in the study of religion, through the consideration of a topical aspect of religion across Eastern and Western religions. Topics may include textual, ritual, or artistic comparative themes across the religions. Attention is paid to issues that define the responsible practice of academic comparison among divergent religious traditions. This course focuses on engaging the comparative study of religion with religions in international countries. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 377 - Studies in Mysticism 4 credits
An introduction to mysticism through comparative and phenomenological study of mystical traditions in five major world religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism. Examines and compares primary texts, practices, major figures, and significant historical developments in mysticism within and among these five religions. Specific themes and topics covered may vary. Course may be repeated. Offered spring semester in odd-numbered years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International, CLA-Writing Intensive
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REL 390 - Seminar in the Study of Religion 4 credits
This course examines topics in the study of religion at the advanced level. Topics will vary. The course introduces students to the nature of religion as a defined area of human experience through beliefs, practices, and cultural identity. The course introduces students to methods such as phenomenological, thematic, historical, or comparative perspectives to analyze religious phenomena. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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REL 391 - Seminar in the Study of Religion: U.S. Topics 4 credits
This course examines topics in the study of religion at the advanced level, focusing on religion in the U.S. Topics will vary. The course introduces students to the nature of religion as a defined area of human experience through beliefs, practices, and cultural identity. The course introduces students to methods such as phenomenological, thematic, historical, or comparative perspectives to analyze religious phenomena. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity US
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REL 392 - Seminar in the Study of Religions: International Topics
This course examines topics in the study of religion at the advanced level, focusing on religion in international countries. Topics will vary. The course introduces students to the nature of religion as a defined area of human experience through beliefs, practices, and cultural identity. The course introduces students to methods such as phenomenological, thematic, historical, or comparative perspectives to analyze religious phenomena. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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REL 400 - Capstone Independent Study in Comparative Religion 2 - 4 credits
This course is the required Capstone course for majors in Comparative Religion. Students design and complete a research paper with the guidance of their Advisor in the department. The work undertaken in fulfillment of this course must be a research project that results in a written minimum 25 page research paper for two credits or minimum 35 page research paper for four credits. The student will be expected to share her or his research in a departmental colloquium. CLA-Writing Intensive, CLA-Capstone
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REL 410 - Specialized Honors I 0 - 8 credits
CLA-Capstone
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REL 411 - Specialized Honors II 0 - 8 credits
CLA-Capstone
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RUSS 101 - Fundamentals of Oral and Written Russian 4 credits
An intensive study of the fundamentals of Russian grammar with an emphasis on speaking, reading, writing and listening comprehension skills. Students will learn to read and write the Cyrillic alphabet, and begin the study of the Russian case system. Supplementary readings in Russian culture. Extensive use of Web based materials. Open to students with no prior knowledge of Russian or who have been assigned to the course after a placement examination. Corequisite: RUSS 103 . Offered fall semester.
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RUSS 102 - Fundamentals of Oral and Written Russian II 4 credits
An intensive study of the fundamentals of Russian grammar with an emphasis on speaking, reading, writing and listening comprehension. Students will complete the study of the Russian case system and learn word processing in Cyrillic. Supplementary materials on Russian culture, including songs and poetry. Extensive use of Web-based materials. Prerequisite: RUSS 101 or placement exam RUSS 101 and RUSS 103 . Corequisite: RUSS 104 . Offered spring semester.
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RUSS 103 - Basic Russian Conversation I 2 credits
This two-credit course allows students enrolled in Russian 1 to work on Russian phonetics, pronunciation and intonation. Emphasis on development of conversational skills and listening comprehension. Corequisite: RUSS 101 . Offered fall semester.
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RUSS 104 - Basic Russian Conversation II 2 credits
This two credit course allows students enrolled in RUSS 102 additional practice in developing conversational and listening comprehension skills. Meets: Two 60 minute periods per week. Only students simultaneously registered in RUSS 102 . Prerequisite: RUSS 101 and RUSS 103 . Corequisite: RUSS 102 . Offered spring semester.
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RUSS 105 - Intensive Elementary Russian I 4 credits
An intensive study of the fundamentals of Russian grammar, incorporating training in the four basic language skills: speaking, reading, writing and listening comprehension. Students will learn to read and write the Cyrillic alphabet, word process in Russian and begin the study of the Russian case and verbal systems. We use the Golosa textbook series, and this course will cover the first five chapters of Golosa I, including extensive work in speaking and listening comprehension. Open to students with no prior knowledge of Russian or students who speak Russian at home but need to obtain formal grammar, reading and writing skills. (Equivalent to RUSS 101/103 during the regular academic year).
Offered Summer only.
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RUSS 106 - Intensive Elementary Russian II 4 credits
An intensive study of the fundamentals of Russian grammar, incorporating training in the four basic language skills: speaking, reading, writing and listening comprehension. Students will complete a study of the Russian case and verbal systems. Supplementary readings in Russian culture and extensive use of Web based materials. This course will cover Chapters 6-10 of the Golosa I textbook, including extensive work in speaking and listening comprehension. Open to students who have completed RUSS 105 or RUSS 101/103 or the equivalent or demonstrate comparable background skills. (Equivilent to RUSS 102/104 during the regular academic year).
Prerequisites: RUSS 101 and RUSS 103 , or RUSS 105 . Offered Summer only.
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RUSS 199 - ShortTREC Program at the Introductory Level 1-8 credits
The course will focus on selected topics offered as shortTRECs through the Center for Global Education. Topics and location of the course will vary in accordance with student interest and faculty expertise. May be repeated as topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Off Campus Experience
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RUSS 201 - Intermediate Russian I 4 credits
Development of communicative ability in contemporary written and spoken Russian. Review of basic Russian grammar and development of reading skills through expanded study of the verbal system. Use of authentic materials and cultural supplements as well as Web-based materials. Open to students who have completed one year of college Russian or have been assigned to the course after placement examination. Prerequisite: RUSS 102 and RUSS 104 . Offered fall semester. CLA-Foreign Language
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RUSS 202 - Intermediate Russian II 4 credits
Completion of study of basic Russian grammar. Further development of communicative ability in contemporary written and spoken Russian. Use of film and video materials, cultural supplements as well as Web-based materials. Prerequisite: RUSS 201 . Offered spring semester.
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RUSS 250 - An Intro. to Russian, Eastern European, & Eurasian Cultures 4 credits
This course examines the successive states and communities which have inhabited the space between Central Europe and East Asia, including Kievan Rus’, Muscovy, the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union and the current Russian Federation and new neighboring states. We look at questions of ethnicity, religious pluralism, and regional diversity as well as economic and social issues, such as the role of women in society, the changes in class system and the legacy of the serf system. We will study the history and culture of this region through lectures, discussions and readings, using primary historical texts and works of literature and art, including film, music, painting and architecture. We will also pay special attention to what is being written about Russia (on all issues) on the internet today-and how Russian is being written about and portrayed in contemporary media practices. Offered alternate spring semesters. CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary, CLA-Diversity International
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RUSS 251 - Love and Death in Russian Literature 4 credits
Russian literature is renowned for its probing explorations of human relationships and the “eternal questions” of human existence. This course surveys Russian literature of the 19th and 20th centuries with an emphasis on the recurring pattern of strong heroines and superfluous heroes found in the works of such writers as Pushkin, Lermontov, Turgenev, Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Chekhov, and Bulgakov, as well as in selections from more recent Soviet and post-Soviet Russian writers. Offered fall semester in odd-numbered years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
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RUSS 252 - Russian Writers 2 credits
The study of a particular Russian writer (Chekhov, Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Nabokov and others ) or group of writers (Russian women writers, Russian migr writers, Russian émigré writers, etc) within the context of the main issues in literature, history and society of their day. Readings are in English translation. Course may be repeated for credit as topic varies. Offered fall semester. Course may be repeated. Offered Fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
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RUSS 255 - Russian, Soviet and Post-Soviet Cinema 4 credits
A chronological survey of developments in Russian film history from the pre-revolutionary era to the present. Students will be exposed to a wide range of movies, including early silent films (pre- and post-revolutionary), experimental films of the 1920s and early 1930s, socialist realist films, films on World War II and Soviet life, and films from the glasnost’ era and contemporary Russia. Readings will include theoretical articles and selections from Russian film history and criticism. All readings are in English and all films shown with English subtitles. Offered alternate spring semesters. CLA-Breadth/Arts, CLA-Writing Intensive
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RUSS 299 - ShortTREC Program at the Intermediate Level 1-8 credits
The course will focus on selected topics offered as shortTRECs through the Center for Global Education. Topics and location of the course will vary in accordance with student interest and faculty expertise. May be repeated as topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Off Campus Experience
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RUSS 300 - Independent Study in Russian 2-4 credits
A tutorial course desigend to enable students to study areas not offered in other courses. Conducted in English or Russian. Amount of credit established at the time of registration. May be repeated for credit with the approval of the department. Signature of instructor required for registration. Offered fall and spring semesters.
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RUSS 301 - Advanced Russian: Listening & Speaking Using Russian Media 4 credits
An advanced course for students who wish to improve their active command of Russian. Discussion of authentic cultural materials from Russian film, television, and radio, using webcasts, RuTube, podcasts and the Internet. Emphasis on listening comprehension and conversation. Review of selected topics in grammar and stylistics. Short oral reports and written assignments. Prerequisite: RUSS 202 or placement exam. Offered fall semester. CLA-Diversity International
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RUSS 302 - Advanced Reading and Writing in Russian: Non-fiction 4 credits
Reading and analysis of authentic texts in Russian. Material will consist of non-fictional texts focusing on political, historical, business or scientific topics, depending on student interest. Students will write, discuss and revise short essays in Russian, with attention to stylistics, word usage and idiomatic expressions in Russian.
Prerequisite: RUSS 202 or permission of the program coordinator. Offered fall semester. CLA-Writing Intensive
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RUSS 303 - Advanced Reading and Writing in Russian: Fiction and Poetry 4 credits
Reading and analysis of works of short fiction and poetry in Russian. Students will write, discuss and revise short essays in Russian, with attention to stylistics, word usage and idiomatic expressions. Prerequisite RUSS 202 or permission of the program coordinator. Offered fall semester. CLA-Writing Intensive
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RUSS 304 - Russian Translation 4 credits
This course investigates various aspects of translation theory and practice as applied to Russian language materials which students will translate into English. The texts to be translated are all authentic materials written for native speakers of Russian and represent a wide range of non-fictional and fictional writings from various disciplines. Background readings will discuss problems of lexical, stylistic and linguistic features. We will explore various translation tools, including on-line translation programs, their advantages and limitations, and how to utilize various approaches. Each student will undertake to produce a publishable text in English of a previously untranslated or badly translated work. Prerequisite: RUSS 202 .
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RUSS 350 - Banned Books: Russian Literature and Censorship 4 credits
A history of the development of Russian literature from the 18th century to the present focusing on the relationship between individual writers and state control of the arts in the Imperial, Soviet and post-Soviet periods. The course will examine publishing and censorship practices and trace the various ways in which Russian writers managed to communicate with their readers despite state controls. Readings include works by Radishchev, Pushkin, Turgenev, Dostoyevsky, and Soviet dissident writers. All readings in English translation. Offered Fall semester in even-number years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Writing Intensive
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RUSS 351 - Selected Topics in Russian Literature & Culture 2 credits
An in-depth study of a topic in Russian cultural studies or of a particular theme, genre or major work of Russian literature read in English translation (students with advanced language skills may opt to do readings in the original). Offerings may include such topics as the Russian short story, post-Soviet Literature, Russian plays, Slavic Folk Culture or Russian Art and Architecture. Course may be repeated. Offered spring semester.
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RUSS 352 - Special Topics in Russian Cultural Studies 4 credits
In-depth study of a particular topic relevant to Russian cultural studies but not covered by regular course offerings. Future topics may include: Slavic Folk Cultures; Eastern European Literature and Film; Russian Art and Architecture. May be repeated for credit with the approval of the department. Offering to be determined.
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RUSS 399 - ShortTrec Program at the Upper Level 1-8 credits
The course will focus on selected topics offered as shortTRECs through the Center for Global Education. Topics and location of the course will vary in accordance with student interest and faculty expertise. May be repeated as topic changes. Offering to be determined. CLA-Off Campus Experience
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