Jun 26, 2024  
2012-2013 College of Liberal Arts Catalog 
    
Catalog Navigation
  Catalog Home
  Academic Calendar
  About the College
  Undergraduate Admissions
  Costs
  Financial Assistance

  Departments & Programs
  Major & Minor Requirements
  Course Descriptions

  Administration
  Campus Map
  About Course Listings
  Academic Policies
  My Portfolio
HELP
2012-2013 College of Liberal Arts Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

 
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • REL 230 - 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, the variety of early theological assessments of Jesus of Nazareth, and the development of Gentile Christianity out of Jewish Christianity. Offered spring semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Writing Intensive
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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). Same as: HIST+26. Offered spring semester in even-numbered years. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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.
  

  • 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.
  

  • 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
  

  • 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.
  

  • REL 260 - Religion and Culture: India

    4 credits
    An introduction to the history, literature, and practices of the religions of India, with major focus on the foundational traditions ofVedism, Buddhism, and Jainism, and the later emergence of Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism. While providing an overview ofeach tradition, the course emphasizes the dynamic interactions among them that have shaped the development ofreligious and cultural traditions on the subcontinent and their civilizational significance. Primary texts in translation and visual materials are central to the course study. Offered fall semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
  

  • 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
  

  • REL 270 - Religion and Culture: China and Japan

    4 credits
    An introduction to the history, literature, and practices of the major religions of China and Japan, focusing on Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and Shinto. While providing an overview of each tradition, the course emphasizes the dynamic interactions among them that have shaped the development of religious and cultural traditions in East Asia and their civilizational significance. Primary texts in translation and visual materials are central to the course study. The course includes field trips to Japanese traditional institutions devoted to the practice of Zen and the Tea Ceremony in New York City. Offered spring semester. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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. Same as: BIBST+169. Offering to be determined. CLA-Breadth/Humanities
  

  • 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
  

  • 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 U.S.
  

  • 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-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Writing in the Major
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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 then 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 an examination, a short essay on on. CLA-Breadth/Humanities, CLA-Diversity International
  

  • REL 350 - Seminar in Islamic Studies

    4 credits
    An intensive study of special topics in this field. Offering to be determined.
  

  • 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
  

  • REL 362 - Women in Asian Religions

    4 credits
    This course examines critically the participation ofwomen in Asian religions. Possible topics include the nature of Goddesses, the social identity ofwomen as wives and mothers and the religious support or critique ofthese roles, biographies and teachings of female spiritual leaders, and the writings of female saints. One or more of these topics may be explored in a given offering of the course. The course will use methods from the history of religions and women’s studies disciplines to pose and analyze issues of the construction and significance of gender in religious precepts and practices. Offering to be determined. CLA-Diversity International, CLA-Writing Intensive
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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 - U.S.
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • REL 410 - Specialized Honors I

    0 - 8 credits
    CLA-Capstone, CLA-Writing Intensive
  

  • REL 411 - Specialized Honors II

    0 - 8 credits
    CLA-Capstone, CLA-Writing Intensive
  

  • 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.
  

  • RUSS 101H - 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. Students who have been placed in RUSS 101H in the Fall and RUSS 1022H in the Spring are exempt from taking the co-curricular conversation courses, based on oral interviews during the placement period. Offered: Fall semester.
  

  • 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.
  

  • RUSS 102H - 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. Students who have been placed in RUSS 101H in the Fall and RUSS 102H in the Spring are exempt from taking the co-curricular conversation courses, based on oral interviews during the placement period. Offered: Spring semester.
  

  • 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.
  

  • 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.
  

  • 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.
  

  • 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.
  

  • 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
  

  • 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. CLA-Foreign Language
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • RUSS 255 - Introduction to Russian and 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
  

  • RUSS 299 - Foreign Languages Across the Curriculum

    1-2 credits
    Foreign Languages Across the Curriculum is a tutorial program which seeks to enable students with at least intermediate-level proficiency in a foreign language to access authentic materials in that language that are relevant to a cognate course. Students will use their acquired skills to read and interpret texts in the foreign language and/or conduct research in the language. Knowledge gained will be applied to the work of the cognate course. Prerequisite: RUSS 201 . Signature of instructor required for registration.
  

  • 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.
  

  • 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
  

  • 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
  

  • 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.
  

  • 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
  

  • 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.
  

  • 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.
  

  • RUSS 410 - Specialized Honors I

    0 - 8 credits
  

  • RUSS 411 - Specialized Honors II

    0 - 8 credits
  

  • SOC 101 - Introduction to Sociology

    4 credits
    A prerequisite to all other courses in sociology. An in-depth analysis of the ways in which sociologists view the world. Topics include deviance, the family, the economy, gender, inequality, politics, race and ethnicity, socialization, and social change. Offered every semester. CLA-Breadth/Social Science
  

  • SOC 107 - Identity and Difference

    2 credits
    In this course students will learn to: think creatively and critically about the social world, demonstrate a sociological understanding of race, class, gender, and sexuality and how these concepts shape our identities and life chances, synthesize ideas from various authors and use them ot explain everyday social interactions, communicate effectively in written and oral form. Signature of instructor required.
  

  • SOC 201 - Contemporary Social Problems

    4 credits
    An examination of contemporary social problems for their effect on American society. Considers proposed solutions to various social problems. The specific topics studied change to reflect contemporary American concerns. Such topics as aging, civil rights, crime, drug addiction, environmental pollution, mental illness, and poverty may be explored. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offered annually.
  

  • SOC 202 - Sociology of Inequality

    4 credits
    An analysis of the social and psychological causes, manifestations, and consequences of inequality. Examines class, gender, race and ethnicity, and age inequalities, with a focus on the United States. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offered spring semester. CLA-Diversity US
  

  • SOC 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: REL 206 . Offering to be Determined.
  

  • SOC 210 - Sociological Research Methods

    4 credits
    An overview of sociological research techniques, including the basic problems of measurement, construction, and testing of hypotheses; the application of statistical techniques in sociology; and the use of the computer in sociological research. Credit may be received for only one of the following: SOC+121, BHVR 321 , or PSYC+102. Prerequisite: SOC 101  and MATH 117 . Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: SOC 101  and MATH 117 . Offered every semester. CLA-Quantitative, CLA-Writing in the Major
  

  • SOC 217 - The Sociology of Management

    4 credits
    A presentation of the main themes involved in the management of corporations and other business organizations. The themes examined are communication, decision making, innovation, leadership, strategy, and politics. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offered annually.
  

  • SOC 225 - Sociology of Gender

    4 credits
    An analysis of contemporary gender roles from a variety of theoretical perspectives. Focuses on the social construction of gender and how gender affects our most intimate relationships. An examination of the implications of gender stratification for family and workplace. Explores historical and cross-cultural variations in gender roles, as well as variations by race, ethnicity, social class, and sexual orientation. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offered annually. CLA-Diversity US
  

  • SOC 226 - Sociology of Race and Ethnicity

    4 credits
    Focuses on an analysis of race and ethnicity as social constructions. An examination of the creation of race and ethnic categories and process of social stratification based on these categories. Explores the historical, economic and political processes that shape our understanding of race and ethnicity in the U.S. and abroad. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offered annually. CLA-Diversity US, CLA-Writing Intensive
  

  • SOC 227 - Sociology of Families

    4 credits
    An analysis of theoretical approaches to the study of the family with an emphasis on changing gender roles. Focuses on diversity among families and how definitions of “the family” are changing to incorporate variations in family structure by social class, ethnic and racial background, and sexual orientation. Topics include dating, love and romance, cohabitation, marriage and divorce, single-parent families, remarriage, day care, and violence in intimate family relationships. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offered annually.
  

  • SOC 229 - The Sociology of Aging

    4 credits
    A study of the key concepts, main theoretical perspectives, and important substantive issues of the sociology of aging. One of the central issues explored is gender differences in aging. Other issues include stereotypes, the social construction of life cycles, changes in relationships over the life course, eldercare, and work and retirement. Examines historical and cross-cultural variations in aging and differences by race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and social class. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or equivalent. Offered Annually. CLA-Diversity US
  

  • SOC 234 - Introduction to Social Welfare

    4 credits
    A sociological introduction to the institution of social welfare, using the theory and the methodology of sociology to analyze the role of social welfare in modern industrial society. Focuses on the historical development and the institutionalization of social welfare; contradictions between the ideal of social welfare and the manner in which it becomes actualized; and the relationships between social welfare and political, economic, and religious institutions. Uses sociological analysis in the study of specific social welfare institutions and agencies. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offering to be determined.
  

  • SOC 242 - Sociology of Deviant Behavior

    4 credits
    An analysis of different theoretical approaches to the study of deviance and their application to a variety of topic areas (e.g., juvenile delinquency, prostitution, white-collar crime, and violence against women). Special focus on gender, labeling, and stigma. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offerred Annually. CLA-Diversity US
  

  • SOC 249 - Sociology of Work

    4 credits
    A sociological examination of the varieties of work and the ways in which the changing nature of work affects the well-being of the workers. Topics include different types of jobs, occupations and professions, low-wage work and poverty, worker health and safety, work and family, race, class and gender in the workplace, and collectives’ responses to work. Prerequisite: SOC 101 . Offered annually.
  

  • SOC 250 - Sociology of Childhood and Youth

    4 credits
    An interdisciplinary approach is used to explore transformations in the cultural and emotional meanings of childhood. This course focuses on the development of institutions that serve their needs. It analyzes the disjunction between the social construction of childhood/youth and the lived experience. It examines how inequalities among children and youth vary based on class, gender, race, region, country, and their role as workers or consumers. The course also analyzes the political and economic commonalities among youth and children that relegate them to a separate and frequently segregated sphere of social life. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offered annually. CLA-Diversity US
  

  • SOC 251 - Happiness in Contemporary Society

    4 credits
    An interdisciplinary course covering the scientific research on happiness. The course examines the impact of demographic factors, media, work and leisure, government policies, social ties, and personal characteristics on happiness. It has an experiential component; students will do some of the “happiness exercises” which have been developed and tested by scholars doing research in this area. Same as: ARLET+351. Offering to be determined.
  

  • SOC 252 - Garbage:Sociological Studies of Trash

    2 credits
    Garbage is the other side of culture. In this course we consider some of the historical, cultural, sociological, and political aspects of garbage, waste, refuse, and dirt. Our garbage and our waste can be considered a mirror in which our actions and our values are reflected back to us. Students will look through sociology at a number of controversies and debates about what trash is, what we do with it, and how we suffer from it. Thinking critically about trash will bring us up against many of the most pressing social and environmental issues human beings face today. Prerequisite: SOC 101 . Offering to be determined.
  

  • SOC 253 - The Individual in Society

    4 credits
    A sociological examination of the self and the interrelationships between individuals and society. Covers perspectives from sociological social psychology on the ways in which societal position affects an individuals sense of self, how individuals interact with others in different types of relationships, and how other people influence the thoughts and feelings of individuals. Prerequisite: SOC 101 .
  

  • SOC 290 - Contemporary Issues in Sociology

    4 credits
    An examination of contemporary issues and topics in sociology. The particular issue or topic changes from time to time. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or permission of instructor. Offering to be determined.
  

  • SOC 291 - Contemporary Issues in Sociology: US Topics

    2-4 credits
    An examination of contemporary issues and topics in sociology with a focus on diversity in the U.S. Possible topics include race, class, gender, age, disability, and religion and/or other forms of inequality/difference. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Prerequisites:  SOC 101  or permission of instructor. CLA-Diversity US
  

  • SOC 292 - Contemporary Issues in Sociology: International Topics

    2-4 credits
    An examination of contemporary issues and topics in sociology with an international/transnational diversity focus. Possible topics include globalization, migration, culture, and the environment, among others. The course will cover at least one country other than the U.S. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Prerequisites:  SOC 101  or permission of instructor. CLA-Diversity International
  

  • SOC 294 - Contemporary Issues in Sociology: Interdisciplinary Topics

    2-4 credits
    An examination of contemporary issues and topics in sociology with an international/transnational diversity focus, using at least two disciplinary perspectives. Possible topics include globalization, migration, culture, and the environment, among others. The course will cover at least one country other than the U.S. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Prerequisites:  SOC 101  or permissions of instructor. CLA-Breadth/Interdisciplinary, CLA-Diversity International
  

  • SOC 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 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 religious traditions will be made. The perspective of the course is sociological and the theological, but the ethical and political issues and dilemmas raised by these groups will also be considered. Same as: REL 297  Offered fall semester.
  

  • SOC 300 - Independent Study in Sociology

    2-4 credits
    A tutorial course. Independent investigation of a sociological topic, chosen in consultation with a member of the sociology faculty. Regular meetings by arrangement with the instructor. Course may be repeated. Prerequisite: SOC 101 . Signature of instructor required for registration. Offered every semester.
 

Page: 1 <- 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13