Course Descriptions 2025-2026 School Year RELIGION REL2121  Survey of Religion in America  3.0   P This examines the diverse religious traditions that have shaped American culture, with a focus on the influence of faith in public life, literature, and social values. Through a Humanities- centered approach, students will explore how religion has contributed to American identity, art, and moral ideals. Key themes include religious pluralism, the impact of major movements, and the role of religious thought in shaping the American cultural landscape, from early colonialism to contemporary society.... Full Description REL2315  Religions of Asia  3.0   P This course is an introductory survey of the religions of Asia, both premodern and modern - Indian Religions (including Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism); Chinese Religions (including Confucianism and Daoism); Buddhism; Shinto; Asian folk Religions; Asian New Religions; and the influences of Western colonial religions in Asia. It draws from textual, archaeological, art-historical and artistic, anthropological, and digital sources to examine the histories, doctrines, and practices of Asian religious cultures. This course also explores themes shared across premodern and modern Asian religions. Finally, it highlights the role religion has played in forming, maintaining, and changing the social, economic, and political structures of Asia.... Full Description REL2300  Survey of Contemporary World Religions  3.0   P This is an introductory survey of the religions of the modern world - Indian Religions (including Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism); Chinese Religions (including Confucianism and Daoism); Buddhism; Shinto; Judaism; Christianity; Islam; Indigenous Religions (including African tribal religions, Asian folk religions, Native American religions, and Australian Aboriginal religions); and/or New Religions presented in comparison to Western religions. It draws from textual, archaeological, art-historical and artistic, anthropological, and digital sources to examine the histories, doctrines, and practices of religious cultures throughout the world. This course also explores themes shared across contemporary religions, while addressing selections from. Full Description REL2000  Introduction to Religion  3.0   P This course delves into the major religious traditions, with a strong focus on the Western canon's influence on art, literature, and philosophy. Exploring sacred texts, symbols, and rituals, students will examine how religion shapes ethical values, aesthetics, and the human search for meaning. Through a Humanities-centered approach, the course highlights religion’s role in shaping the cultural foundations of the Western world and beyond.... Full Description