Graduate Catalog 2009-2010
UDM Academic PoliciesCourse DescriptionsList of All ProgramsFaculty


RELS 1000 Intro to Religion
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Examines the various methods scholars employ for describing and understanding religious phenomena. The course focuses on the various dimensions of religious belief, experience, and practice and explores the main religious themes, such as the nature of God, the human condition, and salvation, in the context of different religious traditions. It also draws attention to the values that religions promote and to the major religious issues commonly discussed in academic and/or public circles.
300

RELS 2000 Spirit & Methods
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course is a basic Introduction to Catholicism. It covers such topics as faith, the Gospels and Jesus, the Christian God, community sacrament, liturgy and worship, the meaning of church, spirituality, Catholic Social Teaching, and the "Catholic Imagination".
300

RELS 2020 Asian Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A survey of those religious traditions usually labeled "Eastern," namely, Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, Chinese and Japanese religions, and the various forms of Buddhism. A brief history, the major scriptures, and the beliefs and rituals of each religious tradition are covered. Current developments, especially the presence of some of these religions in the Western world are also explored.
300

RELS 2030 Western Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A survey of those religious traditions usually labeled "Western," namely, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Also included are prehistoric religion, the religions of contemporary nonliterate societies, and several religions of ancient civilizations. The historical background, the major religious developments, and the beliefs and rituals of the main religious traditions are outlined. Some problems, such as secularization, which these great religions face in the modern world, will be discussed.
300

RELS 2120 Intro to Judaism
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the essentials of basic Judaism: beliefs, practices, customs, ceremonies, holidays, and institutions of the Jewish people. Current trends in contemporary Jewish life, as well as the concerns of the Jewish people are examined.
300

RELS 2140 Gender and Religion
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course examines, from women's perspectives, their experience in a variety of religious traditions. It examines the relationship between religious definitions of women and their social status, analyzes the causes of women's subordination in some religious traditions, compares the values of such traditions with those values affirmed in religious traditions primarily shaped by women, and presents feminists' and womanists' critical theories relating to dogmas, traditions, and ethics.
300

RELS 2150 Rise of Christianity
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the historical setting, theological controversies and institutional development of early Christianity.
300

RELS 2160 Reformation Era
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the origin and development of Protestantism, from Martin Luther to the Treaty of Westphalia. An examination of the Catholic Reformation, including the founding of the Society of Jesus and the Council of Trent. A study of the history and development of Lutheranism, Calvinism, the Anglican Reformation and the Radical Reformation.
300

RELS 2170 Religion in Usa
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An historical introduction to the variety of religious orientations in the U.S.A. together with a consideration of the relationship of religion to American culture.
300

RELS 2180 Black Religion
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Introductory exploration of the spirituality and religious understandings of African Americans, attending to gender and class, and the identification of related key social streams.
300

RELS 2190 Amer Jewish Life
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of the immigration of Jews to America and the development of Orthodox Reform and Conservative Judaism in response to the American experience. Jewish survival in America and religious developments indigenous to America are addressed, including contemporary issues of anti-Semitism, relationships to Israel, the Holocaust, interfaith activities, and the Jewish cultural renaissance.
300

RELS 2220 From Adam to David
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A survey of portions of the Torah (Genesis through Deuteronomy) and the historical [z]books of the Hebrew Bible (Joshua through 2 Kings).
300

RELS 2230 Prophets & Visions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A survey of portions of the books of the prophets, the Wisdom writers, and the apocalyptic visionaries in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament).
300

RELS 2240 Jesus & Gospels
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A survey of the gospels in the Christian Testament (New Testament): Matthew, Mark, Luke, John.
300

RELS 2250 Paul & Revelation
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A survey of the letters of Paul and the Book of Revelation (the Apocalypse) in the Christian Testament (New Testament).
300

RELS 2290 Bible as Religious Literature
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A literary-historical survey of the biblical writings, concentrating on the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) and their influence of the New Testament. Attention is also paid to post-biblical literature influenced by the Bible (e.g. Milton's Paradise Lost).
300

RELS 2300 Roman Catholic Theology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introductory survey of Roman Catholic Theology both in its traditional form and in the light of its transformation during and since Vatican Council II, focusing chiefly on doctrinal issues: God, Christ, Revelation, the Church, relationship to the modern world.
300

RELS 2310 Introduction to Theology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A basic introduction to the nature and method of theology using both classical and contemporary theologians as models.
300

RELS 2340 Christian Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the field of Christian ethics, this course discusses the sources of Christian moral thought and the ways in which Christians have approached a variety of moral issues, e.g., war, economic and social justice, sexuality.
300

RELS 2350 Christ Faith, Fiction & Film
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to Christology, concentrating on the narrative depiction of Christ in the New Testament and in selected short stories, novels, and films. The course begins by comparing the gospels in the context of the developing understanding of Jesus in early Christianity and proceeds to study the Christ image in various works of fiction and film.
300

RELS 2360 Religion and Film
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to religious themes, perspectives, stories and traditions in film. Special attention is paid to the unique ways in which cinematographic techniques can convey religious meanings and perspectives.
300

RELS 2400 Social Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A survey of selected contemporary social ethics issues. Interest will focus on the disciplined methods of understanding the nature, function, and validity of values in socially structured situations.
300

RELS 2420 Religion & Science
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of changing relations between religious outlooks and scientific methods, from the 17th to the 20th century. Special attention is paid to the shifting boundaries between "religion" and "science."
300

RELS 2440 Sexuality & Love
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of human sexuality and its relationship to love, human and divine. Besides reviewing the history of Christian attitudes to sex from biblical times to the present, it will address such issues as homosexuality, gender roles, changing attitudes towards marriage and celibacy, theories of psychosexual development, etc.
300

RELS 2450 Sex Race Class
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to white feminists' and black womanists' ethical thought. This course explores important themes in religious ethics, such as how to discern the good, the relationship between love and justice, and between objectivity and subjectivity. It provides an introduction to women's critical contributions in ethics and theology.
300

RELS 2470 Jews in Mod World
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of the Jewish experience from the French Revolution to Auschwitz and the post-War era. The course focuses on modern Jewish life and times in Germany, Russia, Poland, France, England, America, and Israel.
300

RELS 2480 The Holocaust
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course examines events leading up to the Holocaust and the systematic decimation of European Jewry during the Third Reich. The course will trace the historical roots of anti-Semitism, the societal impact of WWI and WWII, the rise of Hitler and the Nazis' annihilation of six million Jews. Students will explore their own personal responses to the information learned and the implications of the Holocaust for society.
300

RELS 2490 Violence, NonViolen & Religion
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course examines the ways in which Christianity has both encouraged violence and condemned it, while proposing ways of stopping the cycle of violence and enabling its victims to heal from its destruction.
300

RELS 2500 Quest For God
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The contemporary search for the meaning of life as expressed in literature, psychology, and theology. This course explores both Christian and non-Christian forms of spirituality, from prayer and social action to recovery movements, focussing on the individual's experience of the divine.
300

RELS 2510 Theololgy & Literature
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An investigation of theological themes such as faith, the search for meaning, the mystery of suffering, death, conscience, hope and love. It uses a variety of literary texts, classic and contemporary, in the course of an experiential reflection of these topics in the light of the Christian tradition.
300

RELS 2520 Amer Jewish Hist
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Unfolds the rich and fascinating story of three centuries of Jewish life in America. Jewish immigrants from many lands have come to America and redefined a new identity. Sephardic Jews came to these shores in Colonial times. German Jews developed a special acculturation in the 19th century. Eastern European Jews flooded here in the wake of Russian persecutions. How these three separate waves of Jewish immigration linked American Jewry to the broader stream of Jewish history is analyzed and discussed. Students are introduced to the historical processes which compose the Jewish experience in America.
300

RELS 2550 Christian Marriage
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of Christian marriage from a number of perspectives: historical (from Old Testament Judaism through early Christianity to today); theological (the meaning of Christian commitment in relation to God, the community, and the couple themselves); psychological (questions of intimacy, sexuality, faithfulness, developmental stages in the life process, effective communication in marriage).
300

RELS 2560 Human Condition
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introductory course in theology which uses literature and film to explore basic questions about human existence, such as the following: What forces or powers,chance, luck, fate, providence¿are at work in our lives? What are the natures and causes of human tragedy, suffering and evil, and what difference might faith in God make in responding to them?
300

RELS 2580 Issues in Christian Love
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Exploration of the traditional doctrines of Christian love, agape and caritas, and their related doctrines of grace and sin. Special attention is paid to the issues raised by gender differences, and to recent attempts by feminist theologians to reconstruct a model of Christian love in terms of care.
300

RELS 3000 Phil of Religion
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the philosophical issues raised by religious practice and religious belief. In addition to arguments for the existence of God, the course will include the following topics: the problem of evil and attempted solutions, the epistemological significance of religious belief, the relationship between religious belief and religious practice, and the role of religion in contemporary society.
300

RELS 3010 Anthropology of Religion
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to current anthropological approaches to the study of religion. The main themes include symbolism, myth, magic, and witchcraft. Contemporary viewpoints on primitive religions and on the great religions are discussed.
300

RELS 3020 Contemporary Religious Movemnt
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An investigation into the presence and significance of religious movements (sects, cults) in the West, especially those which became prominent since the 1960s. These movements are examined from historical, psychological, sociological, and theological perspectives. The social, religious, and legal implications of this new religious pluralism are also discussed.
300

RELS 3030 Hinduism
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


History of Hinduism from its classical and pre-classical origins to contemporary manifestations. Studies in religious and philosophical movements, their change and continuity in the development of religious thought and institutions.
300

RELS 3050 Islam
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Understanding and living with religion, politics and culture in the Middle East. This course studies the origin and growth of Islamic civilization, emphasizing the principal religious teachings, including selections from the Quran, the life of the Prophet Muhammad, and later developments in Sufi mysticism, sectarian differences, and the recent Muslim experience in America.
300

RELS 3060 Buddhism
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


History of Buddhism from its origins to later manifestations, differentiations into Mahayana and Theravada. Also, a study of major philosophical schools and Buddhist institutions in South Asia and East Asia.
300

RELS 3061 Buddhisms in America
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction of the major events and issues in the history of America's encounter with Buddhism, with a focus on the last few decades. Topics include basic teachings and history of Buddhism, Buddhist traditions in America and their respective emphases, adaptation of Buddhist teachings and practices to American social ethos, and influences of Buddhism on American culture. Background knowledge in Buddhism will be helpful but is not required.
300

RELS 3210 Psalms
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the prayers of Israel in their worship settings, their symbolism and imagery, mythological elements, poetical style, and literary forms. Comparison with the Qumran Hodayot and New Testament hymns. The use of the psalms in the New Testament hymns. The use of the psalms in the New Testament and their meaning in the canonical context are examined.
300

RELS 3220 Wisdom Literature
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the books of Proverbs, Job and Qohleth and several psalms in the Hebrew canon, and of the books of Sirach and Wisdom of Solomon in the larger canon. Wisdom themes in the inter-testament, rabbinic and Gnostic literature are traced, and in the New Testament special attention is given to the Johannine and Matthean Christologies and the Corinthian Correspondence of Paul.
300

RELS 3240 Feminist Biblical Interpretat
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Focuses on texts that deal with the following issues: female subordination/male dominance; images of God; power and leadership in institutional religion; differences in the ways African Americans and white Americans read the Bible; women in Israelite societies, in early Judaism, in the Jesus movement, and in Gnosticism. Students read major American and European feminist/womanist literary criticism. This course also hosts lectures or panel discussions for the UDM community.
300

RELS 3260 Synoptic Studies
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of one of the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, or Luke): its sources, composition, distinctive theological and Christological emphasis, historical community context, place in the canon, contemporary relevance.
300

RELS 3310 The Christian God
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the experience of God as Father, as Jesus, as Spirit: its New Testament formulations (as well as its Jewish-scriptural background), its Patristic development and conciliar definitions, is medieval theological elaboration, this contemporary re-interpretation (Rahner, Moltmann, Tillich, Lonergan) and relevance.
300

RELS 3320 Modern Theologians
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the thought of some influential modern interpreters of the Christian message, Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox. After a survey of developments in Christian theology since the Enlightenment, the course will focus chiefly on the work of a few seminal thinkers representing the major traditions.
300

RELS 3330 Theology of Kark Rahner
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the thought of the greatest Catholic theologian of modern times, and the theological revolution he created before and after Vatican II. Beginning with his early devotional and philosophical works, it will examine carefully some of the major essays from his multi-volume Theological Investigation, as well as other works.
300

RELS 3340 Theo of Death & Resurrection
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An approach to the deepest of life's mysteries, using literature and theology to shed light on the darkness of human destiny. The New Testament accounts of Jesus' death and resurrection will be studied, along with experiential attempts to confront (or avoid) the reality of dying, and the means various religions and cultures employ to deal with death or to envision an afterlife.
300

RELS 3370 Black Theologies
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A focused study of black theologies which have developed through the African Diaspora. Special attention is given to current developments.
300

RELS 3380 Latin Amer Liberation Theology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to liberation theologies through reading major theorists; understanding the significance of connecting faith with action; and exploring the dynamics of social analysis.
300

RELS 3390 Ecology & Justice
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An exploration of relationships between justice and the environment, the varied religious meanings and ethical dimensions, and global connections and implications. Special application is made to ecology in the Detroit metropolitan area.
300

RELS 3430 Ethics & Economic Theories
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An in-depth analysis of the underlying assumptions about human nature, community, and social justice as expressed in contemporary economic theories. Economic theories, as expressions of social values, are analyzed in light of religious teachings, particularly Jewish and Christian teachings, in social ethics.
300

RELS 3450 Ethical Theories and Society
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of some of the more important theories as they relate especially to social order. Emphasis is on recent works in the field.
300

RELS 3470 Social Thought
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of the positions major Christian thinkers have proposed on the responsibility of men and women towards each other, government, the legitimacy of dissent, and issues of justice.
300

RELS 3480 Justice
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of contemporary problems of justice in the areas of economics, law, government, and international relations. These issues are analyzed in the light of philosophical and religious theories of justice.
300

RELS 3490 Amer Religious Social Thought
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to theologically-oriented social thought in America from colonial times to the present. Special attention is paid to key thinkers and the issues of democracy and social ethics.
300

RELS 3500 Religion & Pyschology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An exploration of the interface between psychology and religion, as each addresses such issues as the nature of human beings, the development of conscience, freedom, the quest for meaning, the origins of the idea of God, the nature of faith, etc. A blend of readings from both disciplines will be included, with special attention to humanistic psychology and its approach to the problem of becoming fully human and fully alive.
300

RELS 3510 Pastoral Theology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of different approaches to and understandings of ministry operative throughout Christian history and the concepts and visions of church that underlie them.
300

RELS 3550 Poets/Mystics/God
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The reality of the divine, as revealed to the great mystics and poets of the western tradition, including Juliana of Norwich, St. John of the Cross, Gerard Manley Hopkins, and T.S. Eliot. Beginning with such classic studies as those of William James and Evelyn Underhill, the course examines mysticism in the Jewish and Christian scriptures as well as its later manifestation.
300

RELS 3570 Spiritual Autobiographies
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A careful reading of some of the great religious autobiographies, beginning with The Confessions of St. Augustine and proceeding on to such 20th century classics as the works of Gandhi, Dorothy Day, and Anne Frank. Each student also writes an account of his or her own spiritual journey up to the present.
300

RELS 3580 Theology of the Imagination
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of human creativity and the way the imagination works to disclose the divine. The role of imagining in dreams, scientific discovery, art and literature are explored en route to a deeper understanding of the process of religious revelation.
300

RELS 3590 Religion/Health/Healing
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Explores the ways in which health, illness and healing are integrally related to religious and moral concerns, beliefs and practices in all cultures. Special attention to the ancient healing traditions of shamanism and energy medicine.
300

RELS 3980 Special Topics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An exploration of selected topics in the study of religion.
100

RELS 4020 Asian Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Examination of major Asian religions in their cultural and historical settings, with attention to the spirituality and values fostered by each. Traditions under consideration will include Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Shintoism, etc.
300

RELS 4021 Traditions in China
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An exploration of the historical and contemporary currents of thought and practices in Chinese culture. The development of each of the 'Three Teachings, i.e. Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism, will be traced, and the interactions among them and their manifestations in the daily lives of Chinese people will be examined. A brief survey of popular and minority religions in China will also be included.
300

RELS 4040 World Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the major religious traditions of the world. After an introduction to the study of religion, this course explores the cultural and historical settings and the various forms of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Special attention is given to the spirituality and values fostered by each. The concepts of God and the holy, the human condition and destiny, ritual practices, and ethical behavior is among the major topics dealt with and compared.
300

RELS 4130 Christianity & World Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Explores the problem of religious pluralism in the contemporary world. This course concentrates on: 1) a description and evaluation of the main theologies of religion, and 2) and examination of the relationships which the major world religions, namely, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism, have developed over the last few decades. Special emphasis is placed on the current movement towards dialogue and the many official documents that relate to dialogue.
300

RELS 4140 Gender and Religion
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Examination from a gender standpoint of the experiences of women and men in various religious traditions, including issues of social status, leadership, teachings, ethics, reform. The course will be taught from a (pro) feminist/womanist perspective.
300

RELS 4141 Gender in Asian Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Diverse Asian traditions such as Hindu traditions, Buddhism, Daoism, Confucianism, Shinto, and shamanism, are often intertwined with one another. Together they present a complicated mixed picture when it comes to women and gender relation. This course focuses on the tension between the elevation of the life-giving feminine, the 'cosmic' subordination of women in the male scripts, and the confluence and contestation among different sub-traditions.
300

RELS 4220 Torah and Historical Writings
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the Torah (Genesis through Deuteronomy) and the historical books (Joshua through II Kings). Use of contemporary contemporary methods of critical interpretations of the major stories and their theological insights, humor and enduring power.
300

RELS 4230 Prophets Wisdom & Apocalyptc
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the major and minor prophets, the Wisdom literature and the emergence of the Apocalyptic in the book of Daniel.
300

RELS 4240 The Four Gospels
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A survey of modern scholarship on the Gospels. Religious and political conditions of the Greco-Roman world of the first century of the Common Era. The formation of the Gospels, the quest for the historical Jesus movement. The distinctive approaches of the four evangelists, and the relationship of canonical to no-canonical gospels.
300

RELS 4250 Acts, Letters, Revelation
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the development of the primitive church, its Christologies/theologies, lifestyles and leadership conflicts in the context of the political, religious and social currents of the Greco-Roman world of the first century of the Common Era.
300

RELS 4310 Introduction to Theology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to recent developments in understanding the theological task through the study of classical and contemporary theologians and theological movements.
300

RELS 4320 Classical & Contmp Catholicism
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Exploration of the historic Catholic tradition from the patristic to the modern era, with special attention to the philosophical and theological foundations and implications of key beliefs, symbols, doctrines and rituals. Focus on the distinctiveness of Roman Catholicism.
300

RELS 4340 Christian Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the foundations of Christian morality in the New Testament and their later development, including contemporary theology and present-day issues and questions (nuclear war, abortion, social justice, etc.)
300

RELS 4430 Sexuality and Justice
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Explores western concepts of gender and sexuality in order to analyze how such concepts have effected the religious quest for social justice regarding women, racialized groups, the poor, and humanity's relationship to nature.
300

RELS 4440 Sexuality and Love
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The nature of human sexuality and its relationship to love. Contemporary theories of psychosexual development. History of Christian teaching regarding sex. Changing attitudes toward sexuality, homosexuality, married love and celibacy. Sexuality and gender roles. Sexual love and its relationship to religious love.
300

RELS 4450 Feminist/Womanist Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to Christian feminist and Womanist ethics. Topics may include the re-visioning of love, justice, sexuality, and the common good.
300

RELS 4470 Jews in the Modern World
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The historical processes affecting Jews, Judaism and Jewish life from the time of the French Revolution to Auschwitz and the post-War era of today. Modern Jewish life and times in 19th and 20th century Germany, Russia, Poland, France, England, America and Israel. The dynamics of emancipation and enlightenment, Jewish life in Eastern Europe, the impact of Jewish life on Western European culture.
300

RELS 4680 Catholic Health Care Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of moral problems in health care from the perspective of Catholic moral theology and selected Church writing. Fundamental moral concepts in the Catholic tradition are applied to topics such as reproductive technology, end-of-life care, physician-assisted suicide, abortion, contraception and resource allocation. The course will also expose students to moral views from other faith traditions as well as from secular health care ethics literature.
300

RELS 4950 Directed Readings
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Private readings on a selected problem. Permission of instructor required.
100

RELS 5000 Study of Religion
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course introduces students to the discipline of religious studies and explains how it differs from theology. It outlines the history of the discipline from the 19th century onwards and the view of those writers (like Friedrich Schleiermacher, Rudolph Otto, and Mircea Eliade) who have contributed to its growth and development. Contributions to major areas of study such as the essence, origin, function, and language of religion are discussed. Further, the various methods used in religious studies (such as the historical, phenomenological, and linguistic) are examined and evaluated. How these methods are applied to the study of various religious fields, such as religious experience, the concept of God, and human nature and destiny, are a major focus of the course.
300

RELS 5010 Anthroplgy of Rel
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to current anthropological approaches to the study of religion. Symbolism, myth, ritual, magic and witchcraft. Contemporary viewpoints on primitive religions and on the great religions.
300

RELS 5020 Religious Movemnts
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The "cults" of the 1970s and their impact on traditional religion. Understanding their excesses, financial successes and appeal
300

RELS 5025 World Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the major religious traditions of the world. After an introduction to the study of religion, this course explores the cultural and historical settings and the various forms of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Special attention is given to the spirituality and values fostered by each. The concepts of God and the holy, the human condition and destiny, ritual practices, and ethical behavior is amount the major topics dealt with and compared.
300

RELS 5030 Hinduism
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


History of Hinduism from its classical and pre-classical origins to contemporary manifestations. The religious and philosophical movements, change and continuity in the development of religious thought and institutions.
300

RELS 5050 Islam
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Understanding and living with religion. Politics and culture in the Middle East. Origin and growth of Islamic civilization, emphasizing the principal teachings, including selections from the Qurian. The life of the Prophet Muhammad, later developments in Sufi mysticism, sectarian differences and the recent Black Muslim experience in America.
300

RELS 5060 Buddhism
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


History of Buddhism from its origins to later manifestations and differentiations into Mahayana and Theravada. Major philosophical schools and Buddhist institutions in South and East Asia.
300

RELS 5061 Asian Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Examination of major religious-philosophical-cultural traditions originated in South and East Asia, including the so-called Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Daoism, Confucianism, and Shinto. These tradition swill be introduced in terms of their socio-cultural settings and historical developments, as well as their core teachings, practices, and various cultural expression.
300

RELS 5062 Traditions in China
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An exploration of the historical and contemporary currents of thought and practices in Chinese culture. The development of each of the Three Teachings, i.e. Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism, will be traced, and the interactions among them and their manifestations in the daily lives of Chinese people will be examined. A brief survey of popular and minority religions in China will also be included.
300

RELS 5063 Gender in Asian Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Diverse Asian traditions such as Hindu traditions, Buddhism, Daoism, Confucianism, Shinto, and shamanism, are often intertwined with one another. Together they present a complicated mixed picture when it comes to women and gender relation. This course focuses on the tension between the elevation of the life-giving feminine, the cosmic subordination of women in the male scripts, and the confluence and contestation among different sub-traditions.
300

RELS 5070 Judiasm
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Essentials of Basic Judaism: the beliefs, practices, customs, ceremonies, holidays and institutions. Current trends in contemporary Jewish life and the concerns of Jewish people today. The different denominations within Judaism. The place of modern Israel. The Holocaust. Modern masters of Jewish thought.
300

RELS 5071 Jews in the Modern World
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The historical processes affecting Jews, Judaism and Jewish life from the time of the French Revolution to Auschwitz and the post-War era of today. Modern Jewish life and times in 19th and 20th century Germany, Russia, Poland, France, England, America and Israel. The dynamics of emancipation and enlightenment, Jewish life in Eastern Europe, the impact of Jewish life on Western culture.
300

RELS 5130 Interel Dialogue
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of current efforts to promote interreligious dialogue. Various Christian interpretations (or theologies) of other religions are examined with reference to major official church documents published over the past half century. The meaning of dialogue and arguments put forward to support it, along with its risks and the efforts to harmonize it with Christian evangelization, are considered. Also, understandings of interreligious dialogue from the viewpoints of non-Christian religions are examined as well.
300

RELS 5131 Christianity & World Religions
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Explores the problem of religious pluralism in the contemporary world. This course concentrates on: 1) a description and evaluation of the main theologies of religion, and 2) an examination of the relationships which the major world religions, namely, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism, have developed over the last few decades. Special emphasis is placed on the current movement towards dialogue and the many official documents that relate to dialogue.
300

RELS 5200 Apocalyptic Lit
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An Intensive review of the book of Revelation and Apocalyptic literature.
300

RELS 5210 Torah and Historical Writings
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the Torah (Genesis through Deuteronomy) and the historical books (Joshua through II Kings). Use of contemporary contemporary methods of critical interpretations of the major stories and their theological insights, humor and enduring power.
300

RELS 5220 Wisdom Literature
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A literary historical examination of wisdom writings in the Hebrew scripture.
300

RELS 5225 Prophets Wisdom & Apocalyptc
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the major and minor prophets, the Wisdom literature and the emergence of the Apocalyptic in the book of Daniel.
300

RELS 5230 Passion Narratives
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A critical study of the history, formation, literary characteristics and theology of those chapters in the four gospels which deal with the arrest of Jesus, trial, crucifixion, burial, empty tomb and resurrection appearances.
300

RELS 5235 The Four Gospels
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A survey of modern scholarship on the Gospels. Religious and political conditions of the Greco-Roman world of the first century of the Common Era. The formation of the Gospels, the quest for the historical Jesus movement. The distinctive approaches of the four evangelists, and the relationship of canonical to no-canonical gospels.
300

RELS 5236 Acts, Letters, Revelation
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the development of the primitive church, its Christologies/theologies, lifestyles and leadership conflicts in the context of the political, religious and social currents of the Greco-Roman world of the first century of the Common Era.
300

RELS 5240 Fem Bible Interp
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Female subordination/male dominance, images of God, power and leadership in institutional religion, differences in the ways African Americans and white Americans read the Bible. Women in Israelite societies, in early Judaism, in the Jesus movement, and in Gnosticism. Major American and European feminist/womanist literary criticism.
300

RELS 5260 Gospel Studies
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of one of the canonical or non-canonical Gospels (its sources, composition, distinctive christological and theological emphasis, historical community context, contemporary relevance), or of a specific topic in Gospel research (parables, roots of Christian anti-Semitism, search for the historical Jesus, etc.) Attention is given to gender issues. See specific course description for the semester in which this course is offered.
300

RELS 5300 Contemporary Christologies
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Modern theories dealing with Christological problems. Readings from E. Schillebeeckx, Karl Rahner, Rudolf Bultmann, Paul Tillich, Rosemary Redford Reuther, Rita Nakashima Brock and other recent theologians.
300

RELS 5305 Intro to Theology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to recent developments in understanding the theological task through the study of classical and contemporary theologians and theological movements.
300

RELS 5310 The Christian God
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the experience of God as Father, Jesus and Spirit; New Testament formulations (as well as Jewish-scriptural background), Patristic development and Conciliar definitions. Medieval theological elaboration, contemporary reinterpretation and relevance.
300

RELS 5319 Classical & Contmp Catholcism
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Exploration of the historic Catholic tradition from the patristic to the modern era, with special attention to the philosophical and theological foundations and implications of key beliefs, symbols, doctrines and rituals. Focus on the distinctiveness of Roman Catholicism.
300

RELS 5320 Modern Theologians
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the thought of some influential modern interpreters of the Christian message, Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox.
300

RELS 5330 Theology/Rahner
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the thought of the man generally recognized as the greatest Roman Catholic thinker since Newman and to the theological revolution he created before and after the Second Vatican Council.
300

RELS 5340 Death/Resurrectn
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An approach through literature and theology to the deepest of life's mysteries: the dying and rising of Jesus and of every human being. Biblical material as well as psychological and literary analogues to the experience of death and resurrection.
300

RELS 5370 Black Libera Theol
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Investigation of some contemporary theologies in development by people of the African Diaspora, drawing on critical race theory, gender constructions, and social analysis, as direct responses to oppression.
300

RELS 5380 Lat Am Lib Theo
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Investigation of some contemporary theological constructions and principles in development by people in various Spanish-speaking countries, as responses to the sociocritical analysis of multiple oppressions.
300

RELS 5390 Ecology & Justice
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An exploration of relationships between justice and the environment, the varied religious meanings and ethical dimensions, and global connections and implications. Special application is made to ecology in the Detroit metropolitan area.
300

RELS 5400 Social Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A summary of approaches to the problems of social evaluation. The disciplined methods of understanding the nature, function and validity of values in socially-structured situations.
300

RELS 5401 Christian Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to the foundations of Christian morality in the New Testament and their later development, including contemporary theology and present-day issues and questions (nuclear war, abortion, social justice, etc.)
300

RELS 5420 Political Theology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Contemporary theology in relationship to the political order. Liberation theology in its various manifestations.
300

RELS 5430 Ethics & Econ Ther
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The underlying assumptions about human nature, community, and justice expressed in contemporary economic theories in light of religious, especially Christian, teaching in social ethics.
300

RELS 5440 Gender and Religion
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Examination, from women¿s perspective, of women's experience in various religious traditions. The relationship between religious definitions of women and their social status. Feminists' and womanists' critical theories relating to dogmas, traditions and ethics.
300

RELS 5450 Contemp Ethical Theories
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of some of the more important theories as they relate to social problems.
300

RELS 5470 Social Thought
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The positions of major Christian thinkers on the responsibilities of men and women toward each other, government, the legitimacy of dissent, issues of justice.
300

RELS 5480 Justice
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Contemporary problems of justice in the areas of economics, law, government and international relations in relation to philosophical and religious theories of justice.
300

RELS 5481 Sexuality and Love
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The nature of human sexuality and its relationship to love. Contemporary theories of psychosexual development. History of Christian teaching regarding sex. Changing attitudes toward sexuality, homosexuality, married love and celibacy. Sexuality and gender roles. Sexual love and its relationship to religious love.
300

RELS 5490 Am Rel Soc Thought
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to theologically-oriented social thought in America from colonial times to present.
300

RELS 5500 Religion & Psych
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Areas of intersection between religion and psychology, especially as interpreted by the psychodynamic and humanistic schools of thought. Faith development, conscience and superego, the notion of healthy human behavior, origin of the idea of God, quest for meaning, moral development.
300

RELS 5550 Poets/Mystics/God
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


God as revealed to the intuitive vision of great poets and mystics, chiefly of the English tradition. Works to read include: The Cloud of Unknowing, Eliot's Four Quartets, and the poetry of G.M. Hopkins and Dylan Thomas.
300

RELS 5570 Spiritual Autobiog
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A careful reading of some of the great religious autobiographies beginning with Augustine's Confessions and moving on to such 20th century giants as Gandhi and Dorothy Day, followed by an attempt to write one's own spiritual history in order to understand God's presence in one's life more clearly.
300

RELS 5580 Theol Imagination
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the process of human creativity and of the ways in which the imagination functions in religious revelation, art and literature to disclose the divine.
300

RELS 5590 Violence & Religi
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Exploration of different relationships between religion and violence through the consideration of various theories about the origins and nature of violence. This course examines the various ways in which different religious faiths have both encouraged violence and condemned it, while proposing ways of ending the cycle of violence and enabling its victims to heal.
300

RELS 5600 Christian Love
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Exploration of the traditional doctrines of love, agape, and caritas, and their related doctrines of grace and sin. Special attention paid to issues made by gender differences, and to recent attempts to reconstruct a model of Christian love in terms of care.
300

RELS 5610 Modern Rc Theology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Exploration of traditional and modern Roman Catholic theology since Vatican II. Focus on the theologies of Karl Rahner, Francis Fiorenza, David Tracy, and Elizabeth Johnson.
300

RELS 5620 Religion/Film
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Introduction to the task of interpreting film theologically. Emphasis on the ways in which cinematographic techniques can convey religious meanings and perspectives
300

RELS 5630 Health & Healing
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Exploration and comparison of healing traditions in indigenous cultures with modern medical culture. Emphasis on shamanism, Jesus Christ as healer, Christian healers and their methods, and energy medicine.
300

RELS 5700 Feminist/Womanist Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to Christian feminist and womanist ethics. Topics may include the revisioning of love, justice, sexuality, and the common good.
300

RELS 5950 Directed Readings
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Readings on a selected issue or problem. Permission of instructor required.
100

RELS 5960 Biblical Studies
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Topics may include Parables, the Infancy Narratives or the Passion and Resurrection Narratives.
300

RELS 5970 Topics in Theology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Topics may include Contemporary Christologies; Protestant Theology; Modern Christian Theologians; or the Theology of Karl Rahner.
300

RELS 5980 Topics in Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Topics may include Ethics and Economic Theories; Theology, Ethics and Health Care; Contemporary Ethical Theories; or American Religious Social Thought.
300

RELS 5990 Master's Thesis
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Students should consult chairperson for format requirements.
600

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