COURSE CURRICULUM

The religion program offers a comprehensive range of courses designed to deepen students’ understanding of religious texts, traditions, and practices across time and cultures. The course on Classical Hebrew Language and Literature is the first part of a two-semester sequence that introduces students to the grammar and vocabulary necessary to read ancient Hebrew texts such as the Hebrew Bible. Alongside language study, students explore the literary, religious, and cultural contexts of ancient Israel and early Judaism, providing a solid foundation for biblical scholarship. Another course, Bible in the Ancient World, surveys biblical writings within their original social, political, and cultural settings. This course emphasizes comparative literary and historical methods, helping students understand how the reconstruction of the ancient world influences biblical interpretation. The Bible and the Contemporary World course focuses on the Bible’s role and interpretation in modern history, theology, politics, and the arts. It highlights the diverse ways communities around the world engage with biblical themes, emphasizing the text’s enduring significance. The American Religious Experience traces the historical role of religion in the United States, from Native American spiritual traditions through the dominance of Christianity to the challenges of religious pluralism today. It also examines intersections between religion, politics, economics, and social identities, including class, gender, and sexuality. Students interested in ministry work may take Children, Youth, and Family Ministry, which introduces various theological approaches and organizational models for engaging with these groups. The course incorporates guest speakers and encourages personal reflection to help students develop their own leadership styles. Lastly, Christian Liturgy and Worship offers an overview of Western Christian worship traditions, with a particular focus on Protestant development and Lutheran hymnody. This course combines historical study with practical training to prepare students for active participation in worship settings. Together, these courses provide students with language skills, historical knowledge, cultural insight, and practical ministry experience.