RELIGION (REL)

Division of Religion

Greensboro College holds membership in the North Carolina Religious Studies Association and the Southeastern Commission for the Study of Religion.

Major Requirements

A major in religion consists of a minimum of 30 hours in religion and the related disciplines of philosophy and ethics. The major includes Old Testament and New Testament (REL 101 and REL 102) and the Senior Colloquium (REL 499). The major should also include at least one course from each of the following areas:

Biblical studies (REL 315, 317, 321, 322; GRK 201, 202);
Historical studies (REL 202, 330, 340, 342, 343);
Theological studies (REL 201, 330, 361, 460);
Ethical studies (ETH 200, 311, 312, 317, 380);
Philosophical studies (PHL 200, 218, 300, 301, 414).

It is expected that the student will choose one or more areas for concentration for the major and will also choose electives which will give a broad liberal arts education. Greek is highly recommended for those who plan to go on to seminary.

Students majoring in religion are expected to take courses under the instruction of all full-time faculty teaching in religion at the College.

Religion Minor Requirements

A minor in Religion consists of 18 hours. These 18 hours must include REL 101 and 102 and 12 additional hours in religion, philosophy, ethics, or Greek. At least six of these hours must be at the 300 level and above.

The Religion minor is designed for students who wish to broaden and deepen their understanding of the religious dimension of life.

Philosophy Minor Requirements

The minor in Philosophy consists of 18 hours. These 18 hours must include REL 101 and REL 102, PHL 200 (Introduction) and PHL 414 (Philosophy of Religion), and 6 additional hours in Philosophy. A student majoring in Religion may minor in Philosophy by taking 12 hours not counting toward the major.

The Philosophy minor is designed for students who wish to explore in a focused way the basic questions relate to life and death.

Ethics Minor Requirements

The minor in Ethics consists of 18 hours. These 18 hours must include REL 101 and REL 102, ETH 200 (Introduction) and ETH 400 (Advanced Seminar), and 6 additional hours of courses in Ethics. A student majoring in Religion may minor in Ethics by taking 12 hours not counting toward the major.

The Ethics minor is designed to provide students with a course of study, interaction, and the conceptual tools necessary to face the increasing ethical demands of contemporary civilization in virtually all fields.

Christian Education Minor Requirements

A minor in Christian education consists of 18 hours. These 18 hours must include REL 101 and REL 102, REL 272 (Educational Ministry of the Church) and REL 274 (Youth Ministry), and REL 490 (related internship).

The Christian education minor is designed to prepare students for work in a local church setting. Minors are also encouraged to take PSY 233 (Developmental Psychology) and one of the following: BKED 303 (Infants and Young Children Learning Through Play), BKED 305 (Infant and Young Child Development in the Family), ELED 335 (Teaching the Creative ARTS), and ELED 344 (Literature for Children). A student majoring in Religion may minor in Christian Education by taking 12 hours not counting toward the major.

Pre-Ministerial Concentration

In addition to fulfilling requirements for the religion major, students who choose to pursue a pre-ministerial concentration will be required to take 12 hours in religion, ethics, philosophy, and/or Greek in addition to the 30 hours required for the religion major. They will be required to take REL 260 (Introduction to Christian Theology), REL 315 (Biblical Wisdom and Poetry) or REL 317 (Prophetic and Apocalyptic Traditions), REL 330 (Women in Judeo-Christian Traditions), REL 343 (American Christianity), REL 490 (Internship), ETH 200 (introduction to Ethics), ETH 311 (Christian Ethics), PHL 200 (Introduction to Philosophy) and PHL 414 (Philosophy of Religion). It is also strongly recommended that they take Greek to satisfy the foreign language General Education Requirement.

Pre-Theology Advising

Greensboro College graduates have a distinguished record of achievement at post-undergraduate schools, representing denominational and non-denominational traditions, in preparation for various kinds of Christian ministry and service professions. These schools include: Asbury Theological Seminary, Kentucky; Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Texas; Drew University, The Theological School, New Jersey; Duke University, The Divinity School, North Carolina; Emory University, Candler School of theology, Georgia; Hood Theological Seminary, North Carolina; Lancaster Theological Seminary, Pennsylvania; Moravian Theological Seminary, Pennsylvania; Northwestern University, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Illinois; Pacific School of Religion, California; Pfeiffer University, North Carolina; Princeton Theological Seminary, New Jersey; Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, North Carolina; Southern Methodist University, Perkins School of Theology, Texas; Union Theological Seminary, New York City; University of Chicago, Illinois; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; University of St. Andrews, St. Mary's College, Scotland; Wake Forest University, North Carolina; Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, DC; Yale University, Yale Divinity School, Connecticut.

Students interested in post-graduate work in theology should take a wide spectrum of courses across the curriculum with a major in religion. It is also recommended that Greek, the original language of the New Testament, be taken to satisfy the foreign language requirement. Students preparing for seminary or graduate school in religion should have a member of the religion faculty as an advisor.

Courses in Religion

REL 101 Old Testament (3)

This is a survey of the literature, history and faith of ancient Israel and post exilic Judaism as reflected in the Old Testament. It is based on the recognition of the Biblical tradition as one of the principal sources of western civilization, the source of much of our ethical and theological reflection and as the foundation of the church's life. Satisfies initial three hours of the general education requirement in Religion or, with REL 102, completes the six hour general education requirement in Religion. Offered every Fall Semester.

REL 102 New Testament (3)

This is a survey of the literature, history and faith of the early Christian church as reflected in the New Testament. It is based on the recognition of the Biblical tradition as one of the principal sources of western civilization, the source of much of our ethical and theological reflection, and as the foundation of the church's life. Satisfies initial three hours of general education requirement in Religion or with REL 101, completes the six hour general education requirement in Religion. Offered every Spring Semester.

REL 201 Introduction to Christian Theology (3)

The principal objective of this course is to introduce participants to basic Christian teachings. Possible topics include: the roles of the creeds and the church; the relation between faith and reason; the identity of Jesus as the Christ; views of the Triune God; and how to interpret and articulate biblical texts. Prerequisite: REL 101 or REL 102, or permission of the instructor. Satisfies three hours of the general education requirement in Religion. Offered Fall Semester, 2002.

REL 202 World Religions (3)

The principal objective of this course is to introduce participants to the history, worldviews, beliefs, and practices of such religions as Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Islam presupposes and extends the biblical tradition whereas Hinduism and Buddhism represent comparative alternatives to the three monotheistic faiths. Prerequisite: REL 101 or REL 102, or permission of the instructor. Satisfies three hours of the general education requirement in Religion and the Global Perspective general education requirement. Offered Fall Semester, 2002.

REL 272 The Educational Ministry of the Church (3)

The practical problems of church school organization and program are traced in the three age group divisions - children, youth and adults. Special attention will be given to children's ministry. Fieldwork will constitute part of the required work. Offered Fall Semester, 2002.

REL 274 Youth Ministry (3)

This is a specialized course with focus upon recent developments in the church's ministry with youth. It includes a consideration of the psychology of adolescence and of new patterns, activities and methods involved in an effective youth ministry. Observations and directed field experience in youth ministry will be required. Offered Spring Semester, 2003.

REL 315 Biblical Wisdom and Poetry (3)

This course examines the theological and philosophical thought of Israel's wisdom movement as found in Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Job, selected Psalms, and apocryphal literature. It also examines the Psalter as the poetic vehicle of Israelite worship and devotion. Prerequisite: REL 101 and REL 102. Offered Fall Semesters, 2004 and 2006.

REL 317 Prophetic and Apocalyptic Traditions (3)

This course includes an examination of prophetic and apocalyptic traditions in the Bible as reflected in such writings as Amos and Daniel, Mark and Revelation, and in selected non-Biblical writings. Later church interpretations of these traditions will also be considered. Prerequisite: REL 101 and 102; or permission of the instructor. Offered periodically based upon student need.

REL 321 Portrayals of Jesus (3)

This course opens with the Christ of faith/Jesus of history question. It examines Jesus and his message in relation to first century Judaism. Special attention is given to various portrayals of Jesus and his significance in the gospels, historical research, literature, art and film. Prerequisite: REL 101 and 102; or permission of the instructor. Offered Fall Semester, 2003.

REL 322 Paul and the Origins of Christian Theology (3)

This course considers Paul's life based on his letters and the book of Acts and approaches his thought through a literary, historical and theological analysis of his letters. It emphasizes his position in the history of the church as a continuing source for Christian theology. Prerequisite: REL 101 and 102; or permission of the instructor. Offered Spring Semester, 2004.

REL 330 Women in Judeo-Christian Traditions (3)

This course examines the place of women in selected writings and images from the biblical world and throughout the history of Judaism and Christianity, It explores the liberating potential of religious texts as well as their historical use to justify the subordination of women. Prerequisite: REL 101 and REL 102. Offered Spring Semesters, 2004 and 2006.

REL 340 Biblical Archaeology (3)

This course introduces the science of archaeology in relation to the religious, cultural, and historical background of ancient Israel and Graeco-Roman Palestine. The history of biblical archaeology and its relevance for biblical studies will be emphasized. Prerequisite: REL 101 and REL 102. Offered Spring Semesters, 2003 and 2005.

REL 342 The History and Theology of Methodism (3)

This course is a study of the history and theology of the Methodist movement with special emphasis upon John Wesley and the Anglican tradition. The history of American Methodism will be explored with attention given to the interaction of Methodism with the American experience. Offered periodically based upon student need.

REL 343 American Christianity (3)

This course considers the history and theology of various Christian denominations and sects of North America. It involves experiential learning through participation in a variety of worship services. Prerequisite: REL 101 and REL 102. Offered Fall Semesters, 2003 and 2005.

REL 361 Theology as Story in Film, Plays, Novels (3)

This course explores the religious experience expressed in literature and film. It includes topics such as faith and doubt, the problem of evil, human nature, the desire for transcendence, and the quest for self-understanding. Offered Fall Semesters, 2004 and 2006.

REL 380 Special Topics in Religious Studies (1-3)

This course concentrates on a topic appropriate for the participants. Among the possible topics are: Black Theology; Dead Sea Scrolls; Feminist Theology; Gnostic Literature; Jesus in the Movies; Religion and Science. Offered periodically based upon faculty and student interest.

REL 460 Contemporary Christian Theology (3)

This advanced course will examine the major figures and issues in theology from Schleiermacher up to the present day. Offered Spring Semesters, 2003 and 2005.

REL 499 Senior Colloquium (3)

The colloquium is required for all religion majors and normally taken in the senior year. The colloquium serves as an opportunity for the students to reflect on their varied experiences in pursuit of the major and to demonstrate in writing and orally their familiarity with varied topics in religion. Restricted to majors in religion. Offered every Spring Semester.

Courses in Philosophy

PHL 200 Introduction to Philosophy (3)

The principal objective of this course is to introduce participants to the main problems, questions, and various solutions of philosophy for classical, biblical, and modern sources. Areas of study include: the existence and nature of God; human nature, knowledge, freedom; and the boundary of death. Satisfies three hours of the general education requirement in Religion. Prerequisite: REL 101 or REL 102, or permission of the instructor. Satisfies three hours of the general education requirement in Religion. Offered every Spring Semester.

PHL 218 Logic (3)

This is an introductory study of the general rules of valid reasoning. While primary stress is placed upon formal or deductive logic, both traditional and symbolic, the inductive method will also be considered as time permits. Freshmen are admitted only by consent of the instructor. Prerequisite: PHL 200. Offered periodically based upon student need.

PHL 300 History of Philosophy: Ancient and Medieval (3)

This course includes material from the pre-Socratics to the end of the Medieval period. Some works of Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Aquinas, and others will be read. Prerequisite: PHL 200. Offered periodically based upon student need.

PHL 301 History of Philosophy--Modern (3)

This course begins with Descartes and extend to present day philosophers. The primary focus will be on the major figures of the western tradition, such as Descartes, Hobbes, Locke, Mill, Kant, Hegel, Heidegger, Sartre, Wittgenstein, and Polanyi. Prerequisite: PHL 200. Offered periodically based upon student need.

PHL 414 Philosophy of Religion (3)

A critical and constructive study will be made of the problems of religious knowledge and language as formulated with the major philosophical and theological traditions of the Western world. Prerequisite: PHL 200 or permission of the instructor. Offered periodically based upon student need.

Courses in Ethics

ETH 200 Introduction to Ethics (3)

The principal objective of this course is to introduce participants to the nature of moral or ethical thinking. Christian, classical, and modern theories of morality, including perspectives from the biblical tradition, are examined and applied. Areas of study include: human sexuality; social justice; war and peace. Satisfies three hours of the general education requirement in Religion. Prerequisite: REL 101 or REL 102, or permission of the instructor. Offered Fall Semester.

ETH 311 Christian Ethics (3)

This course surveys Christian ethical thought over the centuries. The relation between theology and ethics will be stressed. Prerequisite: REL 101 and REL 102; ETH 200 is recommended. Offered periodically based upon student need.

ETH 312 Ethics of Marriage and Family (3)

This course examines the ethical and moral aspects of marriage and family life. In addition to exploring current writings on the subject, it will attempt to shed light on these current questions and problems of marriage and family by exploring some of the historical and current problems of marriage and family life and what ought to be done about those problems from various Christian perspectives. Prerequisite: REL 101 and REL 102; ETH 200 is recommended. Offered periodically based upon student need.

ETH 317 Business Ethics (3)

This course investigates the conduct of business practices and how these practices are determined by a philosophy of living. Models of excellence will be examined as well as ethical failures in the conduct of business. Issues of personal character and corporate integrity will be interwoven with argument analysis, business theory, and case study. Prerequisite: One course in business, and REL 101, 102. Offered every Spring Semester.

ETH 380 Special Topics in Ethics (3)

This course is designed to meet various needs and current issues in ethics. Examples of possible offerings include: Ethics in Film; Ethics in Popular Culture; Ethical Issues in Education; Medical (Biological) Ethics; Sexual Ethics; Ethics in Technology; Geo-political Ethics. Prerequisites: REL 101, REL 102, and ETH 200 or permission of the instructor. Course can be repeated for credit. Offered periodically based upon student need.

ETH 400 Advanced Seminar in Ethics (3)

This course is the capstone for the ethics minor. It will begin with a close examination of a major ethical work, such as Plato's Republic or Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics. In the last part of the course, students will prepare a term paper relating to their major area, but a paper that has been informed by the study in the first part of the course. Prerequisites: 15 hours already completed in ethics or being completed in the semester this course is taken. Offered periodically based upon student need.

Courses in Greek

GRK 101 Elementary Hellenistic Greek (3)

An introductory course in Hellenistic, or Koine, Greek which enables the participants to begin acquiring the rudimentary elements of grammar for reading the New Testament in its original language. Foreign language credit only. Offered Fall Semester, 2002.

GRK 102 Elementary Hellenistic Greek (3)

An introductory course in Hellenistic, or Koine, Greek which enables the participants to continue acquiring the rudimentary elements of grammar for reading the New Testament in its original language. Prerequisite: GRK 101. Foreign language credit only. Offered Spring Semester, 2003.

GRK 201 Intermediate Hellenistic Greek Readings (3)

The course focuses primarily upon the Johannine literature--the Gospel of John, I, II, III John, and the Revelation to John. These documents represent three of the four principal literary genres in the New Testament--gospel, letter, and apocalypse. Prerequisites: GRK 101 and 102. Foreign language credit and credit toward the religion major or minor. Offered Fall Semester, 2003.

GRK 202 Intermediate Hellenistic Greek Readings (3)

The course focuses on selected New Testament texts but will include other literature such as non-literary papyri, the Septuagint, and Josephus. Prerequisites: GRK 101 and 102. Foreign language credit and credit toward the religion major or minor. Offered Spring Semester, 2004.

GRK 380 Special Studies in Hellenistic Greek (1-6)

The course(s) offer opportunity for strengthening grammatical and reading skills by focusing on topics and literature of interest to the participants. Offered periodically based upon student need.