Students entering the University of San Diego and/or declaring a major during 2019-2020, should follow information contained in the printed course catalog (also known as the "catalog of record") published on April 1, 2019. Access the catalog of record at http://catalogs.sandiego.edu.
The Theology and Religious Studies Major
Preparation for the Major
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Division | ||
| Select two courses from the following: | 6 | |
| Exploring Religious Meaning | ||
| Introduction to World Religions | ||
| World Religions in San Diego | ||
| Introductory Studies in Catholic Theology | ||
| Introduction to Biblical Studies | ||
| Christianity and Its Practice | ||
| Christianity and Conquest | ||
| Chicanx Religious Identities | ||
| War and Peace in the Christian Tradition | ||
class="blockindent">THRS 202 | ||
| Special Topics in Religious Studies | ||
| Christian Changemakers | ||
| Religion and Animals | ||
| Majors are encouraged to choose these two lower-divisions courses in consultation with their advisors and with careful attention to the various prerequisites specified for upper-division courses. | ||
| Total Units | 6 | |
Major Requirements
Majors may concentrate in specific areas of study through careful distribution of their elective units, including but not limited to biblical studies, religious studies, systematic theology, and theological ethics. It is important to select an advisor specialized in one’s area of interest.
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Division | ||
| THRS 301 | Religion Café: Majors and Minors Seminar | 3 |
| Select one course in Bible or in Christianity chosen from the following: | 3 | |
| Sexual Ethics in the Catholic Tradition | ||
| HIV/AIDS and Christian Ethics | ||
| Christian Social Ethics | ||
| Catholic Social Thought | ||
| Religous Peacebuilding and Reconciliation | ||
| Faith & Environmental Justice | ||
class="blockindent">THRS 341 | ||
class="blockindent">THRS 342 | ||
| Christian Marriage | ||
| Early Christianities | ||
| Catholicism in the United States | ||
| Saints and Sinners in U.S. Protestantism | ||
| Latinoa Catholicism | ||
| Who Is Jesus? | ||
| Jesus and Justice | ||
| Christian Understandings of Salvation | ||
| Black and Womanist Theologies | ||
| Feminist Theology and Ethics | ||
class="blockindent">THRS 368 | ||
| Liberation Theology | ||
| Faith and Politics: Theological Perspectives | ||
| Racial Justice: Catholic Perspectives | ||
| The Five Books of Moses | ||
| The Prophetic Tradition of Israel | ||
| Sinners and Social Justice: The Gospel of Luke | ||
| Paul, the Man & his Message | ||
| Word and Wisdom: John's Portrait of Jesus | ||
| The World of the Bible | ||
| Select one course in a religious tradition other than Christianity chosen from: | 3 | |
| Jewish Faith and Practice - Advanced Writing | ||
| The Hindu Tradition | ||
| Jewish Faith and Practice | ||
| Buddhist Thought and Culture | ||
| Islamic Faith and Practice | ||
| The Daoist Tradition | ||
| Religions of China | ||
| Islam, Women and Literature | ||
| Native American Religious Traditions | ||
| Afro-Latin Religions | ||
| Select one course from the following: 1 | 3 | |
class="blockindent">THRS 450W | 2 | |
class="blockindent">THRS 451W | 2 | |
| Elective Credits | 18 | |
| Students must complete 18 other units (6 courses) of elective credit in THRS, only 3 units of which may be chosen from among the lower-division courses. Majors may concentrate in specific areas of study through careful distribution of their elective units, including but not limited to biblical studies, religious studies, systematic theology, and theological ethics. It is important to select an advisor specialized in one’s area of interest. | ||
| Total Units | 30 | |
| 1 | Must be taken in final spring semester. |
| 2 | Majors are encouraged to enroll multiple times in THRS 450W and THRS 451W before the required course in the final spring semester. |
Students entering the University of San Diego and/or declaring a major during 2019-2020, should follow information contained in the printed course catalog (also known as the "catalog of record") published on April 1, 2019. Access the catalog of record at http://catalogs.sandiego.edu.
The Theology and Religious Studies Minor
Minor Requirements – 18 units
18 units in Theology and Religious Studies, of which at least 9 must be upper division courses.
Students entering the University of San Diego and/or declaring a major during 2019-2020, should follow information contained in the printed course catalog (also known as the "catalog of record") published on April 1, 2019. Access the catalog of record at http://catalogs.sandiego.edu.
THRS 110, THRS 112, THRS 113, THRS 114, THRS 116, THRS 119, THRS 120, THRS 121, THRS 123, THRS 125, THRS 203, THRS 231, THRS 232, THRS 294, THRS 301, THRS 305, THRS 311, THRS 312, THRS 313, THRS 314, THRS 315, THRS 316, THRS 317, THRS 318, THRS 320, THRS 321, THRS 323, THRS 326, THRS 331, THRS 332, THRS 333, THRS 334, THRS 335, THRS 336, THRS 338, THRS 343, THRS 349, THRS 353, THRS 356, THRS 357, THRS 358, THRS 359, THRS 360, THRS 361, THRS 362, THRS 365, THRS 366, THRS 367, THRS 369, THRS 371, THRS 372, THRS 375, THRS 376, THRS 377, THRS 379, THRS 381, THRS 382, THRS 383, THRS 385, THRS 386, THRS 387, THRS 388, THRS 390, THRS 394, THRS 495, THRS 496, THRS 498, THRS 499
Core Attributes: First Yr Integration (LC Only), Theo/Religious Inquiry area
A thematic and topical introduction to the study of religion. Drawing material from at least four religious traditions, including Christianity, this course considers a range of possible themes and topics such as symbol, ritual, mysticism, myth, material culture, gender, ethics, ecology, death and the afterlife, and contemplative practice.
Core Attributes: First Yr Integration (LC Only), Theo/Religious Inquiry area
A survey of the major religious traditions of the world, focusing on an understanding of the religious world views and practices that shape cultures across the globe. Selected readings from these traditions, which will include Christianity, the religions of India and East Asia, Judaism, Islam, and the religions of indigenous oral cultures. Students may not receive credit for taking both THRS 112 and THRS 113.
Core Attributes: First Yr Integration (LC Only), Domestic Diversity level 1, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
A survey of major religious traditions of the world, including Catholic Christianity, focusing on their presence in San Diego and issues of power, privilege, and social justice. Students may not receive credit for taking both THRS 112 and THRS 113.
Core Attributes: First Yr Integration (LC Only), Theo/Religious Inquiry area
This course introduces students to the methods and content of Christian theology, with particular emphasis on Catholic theological traditions. In addition to theological method, topics may include the scriptures, history of the church and/or theology, the nature of theological discourse, and examination of select topics or issues in theology.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
A study of the Bible: its formation, historical character, primary themes, and interpretation.
Core Attributes: First Yr Integration (LC Only), Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An introduction to Christian belief and practice through reflection on classic and contemporary expressions of the Christian life. Students may not receive credit for taking both THRS 119 and THRS 120.
Core Attributes: Domestic Diversity level 1, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An introduction to the history, current status, and theological themes of Christianity, including Catholicism. Emphasis on the relationship between Western Christianity and European colonialism, including how Christian beliefs have been deployed both to rationalize and to resist imperialist and colonialist domination. Students may not receive credit for taking both THRS 119 and THRS 120.
Core Attributes: First Yr Integration (LC Only), Domestic Diversity level 1, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An historical and contextual investigation of Chicanx identities in relation to religious and spiritual traditions, with special attention to Catholic Christianity. Students will engage in community based learning and reflect critically on constructions of power, privilege, and oppression.
Core Attributes: Ethical Inquiry area, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An examination of the three dominant paradigms for thinking about war and peace in the Christian tradition: holy war, pacifism, and just war. We will consider how these frameworks are employed today in both religious and secular contexts as we apply these frameworks to evaluation of particular conflicts/issues, which may include: the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, humanitarian interventions, the ‘war on terrorism,’ preemptive and preventive war, drones, weapons of mass destruction, and care for veterans. Throughout, students will build skills in ethical analysis and reflexivity. Students may not receive credit for both THRS 123 and THRS 323. There are no prerequisites for this class.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
This course studies the history and development of religion and theology during and after the transatlantic slave trade. We will look at the development of Catholicism in its relation to African Traditional Religions and evaluate how they influenced and altered Black religious beliefs in the modern world.
THRS 203 | SPECIAL TOPICS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Units: 3 Repeatability: Yes (Can be repeated for Credit)
Core Attributes: First Yr Integration (LC Only), Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An examination of selected issues or themes in religion to be chosen by the instructor. Topics will have a comparative focus, with special attention to Catholic Christianity as well as theory and method in religious studies. Topics will vary semester by semester. A list of current special topic offerings is available on the department website.
Core Attributes: Domestic Diversity level 1, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An introduction to the nature and scope of Christian theology, with a special focus on Christians who have created positive social change. We study the works of a select group of writers, thinkers, and activists, all of whom have been significantly shaped by their encounter with Christianity, and have, in turn, created lasting testimonies of significant cultural value because of that encounter. Throughout the semester students engage in self-reflection about their life experiences and core values; in written assignments students explore what it means to create positive social change in our world. There are no prerequisites for this course.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An introduction to the subfield of animals and religion. Special attention will be given to Catholic and Jewish traditions, world views, and practices.
THRS 294 | SPECIAL TOPICS IN THEOLOGY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Units: 0.5-4 Repeatability: Yes (Repeatable if topic differs)
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An examination of selected issues or themes in theology and/or religious studies, to be chosen by the instructor. Course meets FTRI learning outcomes 1 and 2 in core curriculum.
THRS 301 | RELIGION CAFÉ: MAJORS AND MINORS SEMINAR
Units: 3 Repeatability: No
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
Through the study of exemplary texts and presentations from invited Theology and Religious Studies faculty members, this seminar will introduce students to the various methodologies in the academic study of religion, as well as to the research interests of current faculty members in the department. This course will also address basic research methodologies, the use of the library and the internet, and the construction of a research paper. This seminar is required of all majors and is open to minors. The course should be taken as soon as possible following the declaration of the major or minor.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Pilgrimage is a core element of Buddhist practice, and the earliest Buddhist art was both located at and inspired by pilgrimage sites. Just as works of art are best encountered in person, the nature of pilgrimage can be explored most profoundly through travel. This team-taught study-abroad course involves pilgrimage to Bodhgaya, India, the site associated with the Buddha's awakening, one of the original and most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The course is only offered as a study abroad course.
Core Attributes: Advanced writing competency, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An examination of Jewish beliefs and practices, their historical and biblical foundations, and their theological and cultural expressions. Students will write a thesis-driven research paper. This course fulfills the Advanced Writing requirement of the core curriculum. Students may not receive credit for taking both THRS 311 and THRS 313.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A historical and systematic study of Indian religion from the Vedic revelation to modern theologians, with special emphasis on points of contact between Hindu and Christian thought.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An examination of Jewish beliefs and practices, their historical and biblical foundations, and their theological and cultural expressions. Students may not receive credit for taking both THRS 311 and THRS 313.
Core Attributes: Global Diversity level 2, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An introduction to the academic study of Buddhism. The course systematically explores the historical development, philosophical premises, religious practices, social institutions, and cultural expressions of the world’s Buddhist traditions, with special emphasis on points of contact between Buddhist and Christian thought.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
This course is designed to provide students with a basic introduction to Islam. The monotheistic belief system and the concept of Qur'anic law will be the focus of the early part of the course. Brief overview of its early history will be followed by discussions on questions of interpretation, reform, and renewal.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An introduction to the Daoist (Taoist) tradition as both an indigenous Chinese religion and global cultural and religious phenomenon. This course provides a systematic overview of Daoist history and explores important and representative Daoist concerns such as cosmology, dietetics, ethics, meditation, ritual, and scripture study.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An introduction to Chinese religions with specific emphasis placed on the indigenous Chinese religions of Confucianism and Daoism (Taoism) as well as on Chinese forms of Buddhism. This course explores not only Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism as Chinese cultural traditions, but also the transformation of those traditions in contemporary China and in contemporary America.
THRS 318 | ISLAM, WOMEN AND LITERATURE
Units: 3 Repeatability: No
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
The course will set in perspective the diversity of cultural manifestations of Islam in its regard for women. It will require a selective exploration of literary works. The writings reflect debates regarding the ever-changing role of Muslim women within various religious, social, geographic, economic and political contexts, primarily in the last 50 years, a period of significant historical change in the Muslim world.
THRS 320 | NATIVE AMERICAN RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS
Units: 3 Repeatability: No
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A historical and systematic investigation into the spiritual contribution of Native Americans, their ethos, and their meaning for Christianity and the future of humanity.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
This course studies the three main religions of African origins in Latin America and the United States. Lukumí/Candomblé, Vodoun, Olivorism, and Umbanda are approached and interpreted from diverse perspectives: historical, cultural, theological, etc. Their formation and development are contextualized in the Latin American experience of slavery and subsequent racist cultural (and legal) realities. Their contemporary significance is discussed.
Core Attributes: First Yr Integration (LC Only), Ethical Inquiry area, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An examination of the three dominant paradigms for thinking about war and peace in the Christian tradition: holy war, pacifism, and just war. We will consider how these frameworks are employed today in both religious and secular contexts as we apply these frameworks to the evaluation of particular conflicts/issues, which may include: the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, humanitarian interventions, the ‘war on terrorism,’ preemptive and preventive war, drones, weapons of mass destruction, and care for veterans. Throughout, students will build skills in ethical analysis and reflexivity. Students may not receive credit for both THRS 123 and THRS 323. There are no prerequisites for this course.
Core Attributes: Advanced Integration, Global Diversity level 1, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
This course will integrate the perspectives of religious studies, music, and ethnomusicology in exploring the faith and practices of Balinese Hindus and examining the complex integration of music, dance, drama, and other arts in their vibrant ritual life. Emphasis will be placed on indigenous, colonial, and neocolonial expressions of cultural, social, and economic power and privilege on the island. Offered as a study abroad course in Bali, Indonesia, in tandem with MUSC 341.
Core Attributes: Ethical Inquiry area, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An examination of human sexuality from the perspective of the Roman Catholic tradition. After an introduction to Catholic ethical method, the course examines traditional and contemporary understandings of sexuality, gender, sexual orientation, love, and justice. This provides a foundation for consideration of moral norms regarding such issues as marriage, non- marital sex, LGBTQ sexuality, masturbation, pornography, birth control, prostitution, and prevention of sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS.
Core Attributes: Advanced writing competency, First Yr Integration (LC Only), Domestic Diversity level 1, Ethical Inquiry area, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An examination of the intersection of Christian theological ethics and the dilemma of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (hereafter, HIV/AIDS). We begin with an introduction to ethical method in the Christian tradition, an overview of the science of HIV/AIDS, and an overview of the sociological and statistical data pertaining to the global pandemic. From there we have the foundation to discuss a range of ethical issues on the topic of HIV/AIDS. Students will select a topic to explore in further detail in an individual research paper project. Our class format will include lecture, group work (including analysis of case studies), discussion with guest speakers, field trips, and facilitated discussion. In addition to required readings, required films and site visits to community organizations will challenge students to engage the personal stories of HIV-positive and AIDS-diagnosed persons.
Core Attributes: Advanced Integration, Domestic Diversity level 2, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A critical analysis of how Christians have understood marginalized sexual identities and gender identities, with particular attention to issues of power, privilege, and intersectionality.
Core Attributes: Ethical Inquiry area, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
This course is designed to introduce students to the field of Christian social ethics. Students will read selections from Christian thinkers, examine various sources of and approaches to Christian ethical reflection, and critically assess a variety of contemporary moral issues.
Core Attributes: Community Service Learning, Domestic Diversity level 1, Ethical Inquiry area, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
This course will examine the living tradition of Catholic social thought. Major themes in Catholic social teaching will be explored, including the role of the Church in civil society, economic justice, sustainability, peacemaking, and a consistent ethic of solidarity, among others.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An exploration of the theory and practice of religious peacebuilding and a survey of constructive resources for conflict transformation, violence prevention, and reconciliation processes in divided societies.
Core Attributes: Advanced writing competency, Domestic Diversity level 1, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
This course explores how faith rooted approaches to ecological issues can play a pivotal role in addressing our current environmental crisis.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
A theological study of Christian marriage with consideration of the historical development and current pastoral understanding of this sacrament.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
What role do the arts and creative expression play in the task of theology, the disciplined and critical reflection on belief and the nature of God? The meanings discoverable through art and the creative process lead to deeper questions, enhancing critical thought. Art expresses our nature as spiritual beings inseparable from the material world; it explores morality, politics, emotion, the subconscious, and the unknown. The “theological imagination” is a way of perceiving and appreciating the sensible world, as Margaret Miles points out, “with ‘a certain slant of light,’ in which other human beings, the natural world, and objects appear in their full beauty, transformed.” The thesis of the course is that great art, whether explicitly containing religious symbolism or not, reveals the depth dimension of reality, what might be called “God.” This course will consider the meaning and function of theological aesthetics, and attempt to cultivate tools for the appreciation of visual culture: a sharper awareness of seeing, attention to detail, and the habit of mind that recognizes the beautiful as well as the ambiguous.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
This course investigates the earliest Christianities from the first five centuries of the common era with an emphasis on the diversity and contestations of practices and beliefs that characterize the period. Students will focus on the demarcation of Christianity from Judaism, the forms of self-definition that emerge in the period of imperial persecution, and the shifts that take place when the movement gains the support of the Roman emperors in the fourth century. Emphasis will be placed on working with ancient texts and situating them in their broader historical and cultural contexts.
Core Attributes: Domestic Diversity level 2, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of the history of the Catholic Church in the United States of America. Emphasis on racial and ethnic diversity in the Church, with attention to how social, political, and ecclesial power dynamics have shaped Catholics’ varied experiences. Required any lower division THRS course or permission of the instructor.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
The histories and theologies of Protestantism in the United States from the perspective of individuals and movements that have had significant intellectual and cultural influence, for example on issues of gender, politics, or science. This course is usually taught through role-playing simulation games.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A culturally contextualized study of the beliefs and practices of Latinoa Catholics in the U.S., with particular emphasis on popular Catholicism.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A critical analysis of the life and message of Jesus of Nazareth through the lens of Hollywood films, including theological, historical, and socio-cultural issues raised by this cinematic tradition.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A critical investigation of the person and ministry of Jesus in light of Scripture, the Christian tradition, and contemporary concerns.
Core Attributes: Domestic Diversity level 2, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 121 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A critical investigation of the person and ministry of Jesus in light of Scripture, the Christian tradition, and contemporary concerns. Emphasis on how members of groups traditionally underrepresented in society interpret Jesus’ life and message. Students may not receive credit for taking both THRS 360 and THRS 361.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An examination of Christian understandings of salvation from biblical, historical, and contemporary perspectives.
Core Attributes: Domestic Diversity level 2, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
This course will explore Black and Womanist theologies in historical context, paying particular attention to the historical movements, foundational thinkers, and critical voices that have shaped and are reshaping Black and Womanist theologies.
Core Attributes: First Yr Integration (LC Only), Theo/Religious Inquiry area
The questions “What is God?,” “Does God exist?” and “What does it mean to believe in God?” are investigated against the background of classical theism and modern thought.
Core Attributes: Domestic Diversity level 1, Ethical Inquiry area, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
An exploration of contemporary feminist theologies and ethics from the Christian perspective to gain knowledge of feminist contributions and challenges to the whole of Christian traditions. Included is a survey of the historical emergence of feminist theologies, methods, major theological themes, and feminist Christian approaches to contemporary problems (from different contexts and multiple perspectives).
Core Attributes: Domestic Diversity level 2, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of the origin, characteristics, method, central themes, and current expressions of liberation theology. Special emphasis on the understanding of revelation, God, Jesus Christ, the Church, the human being, Christian ethics, social justice, and Christian spirituality.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An examination of new religious movements commonly called cults and sects in the U.S.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 121 or THRS 123 or THRS 125 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An historical and contextual examination of the relationship between women, gender, and Christianity in late antiquity. Students will learn about the history of women and the role of gender in Christian literature from the first six centuries of the common era.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
A theological study of the public and political roles of religion, including evaluation of the impact of religious beliefs on political behavior.
Core Attributes: Domestic Diversity level 2, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of Catholic approaches to the struggle for racial justice in US society and the US Catholic Church.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 121 or THRS 123 or THRS 125 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An examination of the theologies, political philosophies and lives of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 121 or THRS 123 or THRS 125 or THRS 203 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
An examination of the intersection between and history of religion and literature using novels, plays, poetry and essays.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of the first five books of the Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy), the history of their composition, and their theological contributions to Judaism and Christianity.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of Old Testament prophets in their historical, social, and political backgrounds. Attention is given to the contribution of the prophets to Jewish-Christian theologies and their significance for the contemporary world.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of the Gospel of Luke, with some attention also to Acts of the Apostles. Some of the major themes examined are wealth and poverty, gender, and discipleship.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of the Pauline writings and theological thought. Major themes are reviewed with respect to their applications to present-day Christian life.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of the Johannine writings, particularly the Gospel of John. Some of the major themes examined are Jesus's identity and presentation of God, and the role of women in the gospel.
Core Attributes: Advanced writing competency, Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 121 or THRS 123 or THRS 202 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of the Johannine writings, particularly the Gospel of John. Some of the major themes examined are Jesus’s identity and presentation of God, and the role of women in the gospel. This course requires frequent writing assignments with instructor feedback. Students cannot receive credit for taking both THRS 386 and THRS 387.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
A survey of historical, political, social, cultural, and religious conditions of selected periods in biblical history.
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
A study of the Holocaust focused on the moral and religious dilemmas it raises for Jews and Christians.
THRS 394 | SPECIAL TOPICS IN THEOLOGY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Units: 0.5-4 Repeatability: Yes (Repeatable if topic differs)
Core Attributes: Theo/Religious Inquiry area
Prerequisites: THRS 110 or THRS 112 or THRS 113 or THRS 114 or THRS 116 or THRS 119 or THRS 120 or THRS 121 or THRS 123 or THRS 125 or THRS 203 or THRS 231 or THRS 232
A study of selected major figures or problems or movements or periods in either Christianity and/or other religions. Specification will be made by the instructor.
Core Attributes: Advanced writing competency, Advanced Integration
Prerequisites: THRS 301
A capstone seminar for THRS majors and minors in which students plan and execute senior projects (in most cases, 15-20 pg. term papers). Students will explicitly synthesize and apply knowledge and skills from two distinct disciplines, one of which must be represented within the scholarship and curriculum of the department. Classes will be conducted seminar-style, with required participation among all students.
THRS 496 | RESEARCH EXPERIENCE IN THEOLOGY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Units: 1-3 Repeatability: Yes (Can be repeated for Credit)
Core Attributes: Undergraduate Research
This is a course intended to provide theology and religious studies majors with an applied experience in the conduct of original academic research by assisting on a faculty-led scholarly project. The experience is designed to build on the knowledge students gain in THRS 301. Students will meet with a faculty member, with whom a research relationship is established, on an on-going basis to discuss the research project, assess the student’s role and responsibilities, and collaborate on a research project in which the faculty member takes the lead. Students must register with a specific faculty member with whom they complete a contract outlining the roles and responsibilities of both the student and the faculty member. Up to 3 units of undergraduate research (496) can count toward the THRS major as upper division elective units.
THRS 498 | INTERNSHIP IN THEOLOGY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Units: 1-3 Repeatability: Yes (Can be repeated for Credit)
This is a pass-fail only course involving fieldwork under the joint supervision of the THRS instructor and agency personnel. Students cannot be on academic probation and must obtain THRS instructor consent to enroll. Course content will include volunteering or working at an approved placement or community agency, monthly meetings with the instructor of record, reflection papers, agency performance evaluations, and a poster presentation at a THRS department event. Minimum required semester hours of agency work are as follows: 40 hours for 1 unit; 80 hours for 2 units; 120 hours for 3 units. Up to 3 units of internship (498) can count toward the THRS major as upper division elective units.
Department of Theology and Religious Studies
College of Arts and Sciences
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