2018-19 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2018-19 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Courses


 
  
  • PHI 229 - Twentieth-Century Philosophy

    (4 credits; non-yearly, consult department)
    An introduction to some of the dominant philosophers and philosophical movements of the 20th century.

  
  • PHI 238BR - Philosophy of the Arts

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Belief and Reason)
    A study of major theories of the analysis and evaluation of art.

  
  • PHI 244BR - C.S. Lewis

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (NWCore option under Belief and Reason)
    An exploration of the philosophical themes found in the writings of C.S. Lewis, with some consideration of his place in the writing group known as the Inklings.

  
  • PHI 250 - Special Topics

    (2 or 4 credits, non- yearly, consult department)
    A study of special topics in philosophy which are not adequately covered in other courses as a response to student or faculty needs or interests.

    Note: May be taken more than once for credit provided that a different topic is studied.

  
  • PHI 310WIx - History of Political Thought

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (Writing intensive)
    A survey of the history of Western political thought, through study of selected major thinkers in the tradition. Emphasis will be placed both on each thinker’s political theory and how it fits in the broader history of Western political thought.

    Prerequisites: at least one philosophy course, 4 credits in political science, junior class standing, or permission of the instructor.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in political science.
  
  • PHI 319BR - Philosophy and Science Fiction

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Belief and Reason)
    An exploration of some central philosophical problems through the medium of science fiction.

  
  • PHI 333 - Philosophy and Christianity

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    An exploration of some set of topics that lie at the intersection of philosophy and the Christian faith.

    Prerequisite: at least one philosophy course.

  
  • PHI 341x - Philosophy of Social Science

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    An in-depth study of the philosophical foundations of the social and cognitive sciences. Issues discussed include, e.g., a) laws and explanations in social science, b) objectivity and values in the social sciences, c) rationality, d) relations between different social sciences and the physical sciences, e) philosophy of mind.

    Prerequisites: at least one philosophy course. PHI202 or 342 may prove helpful, but not required.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in sociology.
  
  • PHI 342 - Philosophy of Natural Science

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    This course will help one understand the natural sciences by examining a number of issues as they arise in the history of science. Issues discussed include: e.g., a) what distinguishes science from non-science? b) how are scientific theories justified? c) what is the role of values in scientific inquiry? d) what is required in a scientific explanation? e) do science and religion conflict? f) what is involved in a comprehensive scientific worldview? Representative thinkers include, e.g., Isaac Newton, Pierre Duhem, Ernst Mach, Karl Popper, Thomas Kuhn.

    Prerequisite: at least one philosophy course. PHI202 is helpful, but not required.

  
  • PHI 350 - Special Topics

    (2 or 4 credits, non- yearly, consult department)
    A study of special topics in philosophy which are not adequately covered in other courses.

    Note: May cover, for instance, timely topics which yet do not merit a permanent place in the curriculum. May be taken more than once provided a different topic is studied.

    Prerequisites: two philosophy courses.

    When Offered: Offered as a response to student or faculty needs or interests.
  
  • PHI 355 - Topics in Ethics

    (4 credits, non- yearly, consult department)
    An advanced study of some topic(s) in ethics.

    Prerequisite: PHI200BR or 214BR.

  
  • PHI 398 - Directed Study


  
  • PHI 417 - Internship

    (2 credits may apply toward the major)
  
  • PHI 450WI - Senior Thesis

    (2 credits; non-yearly, consult department) (Writing intensive)
    Students will write a senior thesis in philosophy under the direction of one of the philosophy faculty.

    Prerequisites: philosophy major or minor, senior class standing.

  
  • PHY 101 - Conceptual Physics

    (3 credits)
    The course includes a study of linear and non-linear motion, Newton’s Laws of Motion, momentum, energy, properties of matter, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, light, and atomic and nuclear physics. These topics are studied in a conceptual manner that includes little mathematics (beginning high school algebra level). The historical perspective on these concepts and the way in which they were developed is included.

  
  • PHY 107 - The Physics of Everyday Life

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (NWCore option under Science and the Natural World)
    A one-semester physics course for students seeking a physical science course to fulfill their natural science general education requirement and those students needing a one-semester physics course for a graduate school program. The primary goal of the course is to introduce students to the basic principles of physics that are at work in creation, as well as how they have been implemented technologically. Specific topics may vary somewhat, but will always focus on the foundational aspects of physics: mechanics, electromagnetism, wave behavior and thermodynamics. There will be some discussion of the historical development of physics and its relationship to faith.

    Note: There is a laboratory component to this course.

    Prerequisite: MAT109QR or higher, or ACT math score of 24 or better (SAT 570 or above), or consent of department chair.

  
  • PHY 111SN - General Physics I

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Science and the Natural World)
    Though all students are welcome in this NWCore physics course, this is the first in a two course algebra-based sequence designed particularly for life science majors and others intending to apply to medical or graduate school. The course includes the following topics: kinematics, Newtonian mechanics, energy, momentum, gravity, thermodynamics, and oscillations.

    Note: There is a laboratory component to this course.

    Prerequisite: C- or higher in MAT109QR, or ACT math score of 24 or better (SAT 570 or above), or consent of the department chair.

  
  • PHY 112 - General Physics II

    (4 credits)
    A continuation of General Physics I. Topics will include simple harmonic oscillation, mechanical and electromagnetic waves, electromagnetism and modern physics.

    Note: There is a laboratory component to this course.

    Prerequisite: successful completion of PHY111SN with a grade of C- or better, or consent of department chair.

  
  • PHY 160SN - Astronomy

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Science and the Natural World)
    Introduction to the science of astronomy. The basic tools and concepts in astronomy and the underlying physics are discussed. Topics will include the investigational methods in astronomy and an emphasis on our Solar System. Additional topics may include stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Students are expected to be able to articulate a Christian perspective of our place in the universe.

    Note: There is a laboratory/observation component to this course.

    Prerequisite: C- or higher in either MAT109QR or MAT127, or ACT math score of 22 (SAT520 or above) or permission of instructor.

  
  • PHY 211SN - Classical Physics I

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Science and the Natural World)
    Though all students are welcome in this calculus-based, NWCore physics course, this is the first of a two course sequence designed for math, science, and engineering majors and others who have taken or are taking calculus and intend to apply to medical or graduate school. This course includes the following topics: kinematics, Newtonian mechanics, energy, momentum, gravity, oscillations, and thermodynamics.

    Note: There is a laboratory component to this course.

    Prerequisite: C- or higher in MAT112QR, or consent of the department chair. (MAT112QR may be taken concurrently with PHY211SN).

  
  • PHY 212 - Classical Physics II

    (4 credits)
    A continuation of Classical Physics I. Topics will include simple harmonic oscillation, mechanical and electromagnetic waves, and electromagnetism.

    Note: There is a laboratory component to this course.

    Prerequisite: successful completion of PHY211SN with a grade of C- or better.

  
  • PHY 213 - Electronics and Instrumentation

    (3 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    For students seeking a minor in physics. Topics will include analog and digital electronics components, basic analog and digital theory of circuit operation, and interfacing recording instruments to experimental apparatus.

    Prerequisite: PHY212 or permission of department chair.

  
  • PHY 231 - Engineering Statics

    (3 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    Primarily for pre-engineering students. Topics include vector and scalar treatment of coplanar and noncoplanar force systems, resultants, equilibrium, friction, centroids, second movements, Mohr’s circle, radius of gyration, internal forces, shear, and bending diagrams.

    Prerequisite: PHY211SN.

  
  • PHY 250 - Special Topics

    (2 or 4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    A study of topics in physics which are not fully covered in other courses.

    Note: May be repeated provided a different topic is studied.

    Prerequisites: PHY111SN, 112 or 211SN, 212.

    When Offered: Offered to accommodate student or faculty interests.
  
  • PHY 270 - Classical Dynamics

    (4 credits; alternate years, consult department)
    The study of how things move. Topics will include kinematics of particles and systems of particles, Newton’s laws of motion, momentum and energy, oscillations/vibrations, Lagrangian mechanics, central forces, non-inertial frames, rigid bodies, and coupled oscillators.

    Prerequisites: PHY212 and MAT212. (MAT212 may be taken concurrently with PHY270).

  
  • PHY 370 - Modern Physics

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    For students seeking a minor in physics or those interested in obtaining a physics teaching endorsement. Topics will include special relativity, quantized energy and momentum, Schrodinger’s Equation, nuclear and particle physics, and cosmology.

    Note: There is a laboratory component to this course.

    Prerequisites: successful completion of PHY212 with a grade of C- or higher, or permission of instructor.

  
  • PHY 398 - Directed Study


  
  • PHY 417 - Internship


  
  • PHY 433WIx - Introductory Physical Chemistry

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (Writing intensive)
    An introductory course in chemical thermodynamics, quantum chemistry and chemical kinetics.

    Note: Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory period per week. A fee is associated with this course.

    Prerequisites: MAT112QR and 211, and CHE112 or PHY212.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in chemistry.
  
  • PHY 436x - Intermediate Physical Chemistry

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    An intermediate course in chemical thermodynamics, quantum chemistry and chemical kinetics.

    Note: Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory period per week. A fee is associated with this course.

    Prerequisite: PHY433WIx.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in chemistry.
  
  • PSC 101SS - American Government

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Self and Society)
    (American politics) A broad survey of the major political and governmental institutions in the United States, this course examines how citizens attempt to influence their government and how the government responds. The course also develops the foundations for a biblical perspective on the role of government and the role of citizens.

  
  • PSC 105SS - Liberalism and its Critics

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Self and Society)
    (American politics) A survey of contemporary political ideologies such as liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and others, with a special focus on liberalism as the dominant political and economic ideology of our time. Students will seek to understand the relevance of these ideologies for public policy, and will seek to develop a Christian perspective on, and critique of, contemporary ideologies.

  
  • PSC 120HP - The Cold War and Beyond: International History Since 1945

    (4 credits) (Fulfills NWCore Historical Perspectives requirement)
    A survey of international history since the end of World War II, with a focus on the Cold War and its global impact. The major aim of this course is for students to understand the time we live in now by exploring recent international history. A major theme is the interaction between power politics and ideology. We will also note the various possible historical narratives that can be told about the same time period.

  
  • PSC 130SS - International Relations

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (NWCore option under Self and Society)
    This course investigates war and terrorism in a globalized world. We will examine possible causes of international conflict and the obstacles to peaceful solutions, as well as studying the various aspects of globalization (political, economic, social, etc.) as the context in which these issues take place.

  
  • PSC 210BRx - Introduction to Political Philosophy

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (NWCore option under Belief and Reason)
    This course introduces the student to philosophy by means of an examination of the main questions of normative social and political theory. It examines such matters as the justification and purpose of government, anarchism, justice, equality and human rights.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in philosophy.
  
  • PSC 220 - Politics and Public Policy

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (American politics)
    A general examination of domestic and foreign policies of the United States. Education, health care, civil rights and economic policy are among the various polices explored. Particular attention is given to the differences between Christian liberal and Christian conservative policy perspectives of problems such as crime, discrimination, poverty, degradation of the environment and others.

  
  • PSC 225WI - Introduction to Law

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (Writing intensive) (American politics)
    This course briefly surveys the landscape of the American legal system. Most of the course, however, is devoted to examining significant constitutional issues, such as government powers, civil rights and civil liberties.

  
  • PSC 235CC - Comparative Politics

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Cross-Cultural Engagement)
    A survey of the politics of several countries from different continents. Special attention is paid to historical development and ideological, religious, and cultural factors affecting a country’s politics.

  
  • PSC 260CC - Human Geography

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Cross-Cultural Engagement)
    This course introduces the study of political, physical and cultural features of space and place around the world. Familiarity with major physical and political features of the world’s regions will be stressed. In addition, the course will raise various issues connected with the cultural aspect of geography, e.g., perceptions of place, changes in space over time, the interactions of human communities, the natural environment and patterns of human presence on the land.

  
  • PSC 295 - Electoral Politics Field Experience

    (2 credits, alternate years, consult department) (American politics)
    This course provides an opportunity to explore elections as the central mechanism of democratic accountability in American government, by means of supervised reading and reflective involvement in an election campaign.

    Note: Graded on a pass/no pass basis.

    Prerequisite: PSC101SS.

  
  • PSC 310WIx - History of Political Thought

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (Writing intensive)
    A survey of the history of Western political thought, through study of selected major thinkers in the tradition. Emphasis will be placed both on each thinker’s political theory and how it fits in the broader history of Western political thought.

    Prerequisite: junior class standing, or permission of the instructor.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in philosophy.
  
  • PSC 320 - Christians and the Political Order

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department) (American politics)
    This course centers on the implications of the Christian faith for Christians in the political order. We will explore historical and current Christian interpretations of the role of government in society, distilling biblical values which undergird them.

    Prerequisite: junior standing, or permission of the instructor.

  
  • PSC 325x - American Political Thought

    (4 credits, non-yearly, consult department) (American politics)
    A survey of the historical development of American political thought with attention to significant American political thinkers from the colonial period to the present. Special emphasis will be given to the uneasy relationship between liberalism and democracy and the interaction between American political institutions and culture.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in history.
  
  • PSC 330 - Topics in International Problems

    (2-4 credits, non-yearly, consult department)
    This course explores a particular problem in international politics, using descriptive, theoretical and normative perspectives. Issues addressed may include war, ethics and foreign policy, and hunger. We will explore relevant Christian thinking to assess proposed solutions.

    Note: May be taken more than once provided a different topic is studied.

  
  • PSC 340 - Topics in American Politics and Institutions

    (2 credits, non-yearly, consult department) (American politics)
    An examination and analysis of one of the following three aspects of the American political system: the presidency, the Congress or political behavior. The latter consists of voting behavior and the role, character and political strength of interest groups and political parties. Each time the course is taught the student will be offered an opportunity to increase his or her understanding of one of these critical components of the American political system.

    Note: May be taken more than once provided a different topic is studied.

  
  • PSC 350 - Special Topics

    (2 or 4 credits, non-yearly, consult department)
    A study of political themes or issues not fully covered in other courses in response to student or faculty interests.

    Note: May be taken more than once, provided a different topic is studied.

  
  • PSC 398 - Directed Study


  
  • PSC 417 - Internship

    (4 credits may apply toward the major)
  
  • PSY 100SS - Exploring Psychology

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Self and Society)
    In this course students learn how, using methodologies such as observation, survey and experimentation, psychological science explores the causes and consequences of human action. An overview of major findings from the field of psychology such as biological bases of behavior, learning and memory, motivation and emotion, human development, personality, intelligence, psychopathology and therapy, the effect of others on individuals will be discussed and students will be encouraged to apply this knowledge to their own views and actions. Students will consider why the integration of faith and science in understanding humans is important and will explore ways of accomplishing this integration.

  
  • PSY 214x - Social Psychology

    (4 credits)
    This course involves the study of the way individuals think about, influence and relate to one another. Topics include: attitude change, social thinking, conformity, obedience, persuasion, prejudice, aggression, altruism, roles, norms and environmental influences on social behavior. The major aim of the course is to encourage an appreciation of the relationship between personal and situational determinants of social behavior.

    Prerequisite: PSY100SS, 221SS, or SOC101SS.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in sociology.
  
  • PSY 215 - Research Design and Introductory Statistics

    (4 credits)
    This course acquaints the student with basic empirical research techniques in the behavioral sciences including political science, psychology, social work and sociology. The course aims to enable the student to function as a conductor and a consumer of behavioral science research. Techniques include: observation, questionnaire and survey, interview, single-subject designs, qualitative research, and experimental and quasi-experimental methodologies. Topics include: descriptive and basic inferential statistics, sampling methods and research ethics.

    Prerequisites: PSY100SS, SOC101SS, PSC101SS, or PSC105SS, and fulfillment of the Quantitative Reasoning requirement.

  
  • PSY 216WI - Research Design and Advanced Statistics

    (4 credits) (Writing intensive)
    Skills in statistical analysis and interpretation of psychological research are developed in this course with emphasis on correlation, regression and analysis of variance. Basic skills learned in Research Methods I are extended through practice in conducting, analyzing and reporting research using statistical software such as SPSS.

    Prerequisite: PSY215.

  
  • PSY 221SS - Developmental Psychology: Childhood

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Self and Society)
    This course explores the development of the child from the prenatal period into adolescence. Children’s physical, cognitive, emotional, personality, social, moral and faith development is examined. Psychological research methods for studying children are covered.

  
  • PSY 224 - Developmental Psychology: Adolescence

    (4 credits)
    Adolescents experience many changes in a few short years as they transition from childhood to adulthood. This course explores the major psychological issues and theories in adolescent development with emphasis on cognitive development, self-concept, peer relationships and sexuality, among others.

  
  • PSY 225 - Developmental Psychology: Adulthood

    (4 credits)
    This course explores psychological issues and theories in normal adult development, with emphasis on cognitive, social and personality functioning from young adulthood to old age.

  
  • PSY 230 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology

    (2 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    This course covers the psychological issues of the work place such as personnel selection and development, organizational psychology and the work environment. The professional activities of I/O psychologists are examined including selection and the placement of new employees, staff training and development, performance management, organizational development, analysis of the quality of work life and ergonomics.

  
  • PSY 240 - Helping Skills

    (2 credits; alternate years, consult department)
    This course provides a first exposure to the practice of counseling/helping. A major emphasis will be the skilled helper model, an introductory model of active helping/counseling. This model focuses on helping clients understand and manage their problems and develop their unused opportunities and resources. Students will learn and practice the skilled helper model in a workshop setting that requires a great deal of active participation, self-reflection, journaling, and listening to peers in pseudo-counseling role-plays.

    Prerequisites: PSY100SS or PSY221SS.

  
  • PSY 250CC - Cross-Cultural Psychology

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Cross-Cultural Engagement)
    As human beings we live our lives within the context of culture. Although many aspects of human life are similar across cultures, differences are also evident in a variety of dimensions. In this course, we examine the ways humans differ across cultures and how culture impacts the way humans think and feel, as well as the way culture changes how we understand ourselves and our stories. Christian faith requires love and respect for others in the midst of challenges culture can present. Ways Christians can learn from and love others will be discussed.

  
  • PSY 260 - Psychology of Personality

    (4 credits)
    Includes theories about the dynamics and structure of personality and current research on personality. The course emphasizes psychoanalytic, trait, humanistic and behavioral views of personality.

    Prerequisites: PSY100SS, 221SS, or both PSY224 and 225.

  
  • PSY 310 - History of Psychology

    (2 credits)
    This course provides an overview of the history and theories which have shaped contemporary psychology with attention on the assumptions and presuppositions underlying the discipline, as well as the nature of the discipline.

    Prerequisite: At least eight credits of previous psychology courses.

  
  • PSY 315 - Learning and Cognition

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    An introduction to the topics of learning, memory and cognition within the field of experimental psychology. An emphasis will be placed on approaching problems as an “experimental psychologist.” Advantages and limitations of the experimental approach and applications of the knowledge base of experimental psychology will be highlighted.

    Prerequisites: PSY100SS and 215.

  
  • PSY 319 - Motivation and Emotion

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    Why do we do what we do? How do we know what we want and what we need? How do we set goals for ourselves and act to achieve them? These are some of the questions that the psychology of motivation and emotion attempt to answer. This course will examine universal and specific motivations and emotions in the context of physiological, cognitive and affective systems. It will also pursue applications of motivation and emotion to the psychology of addiction, health, coping and optimal functioning.

    Prerequisites: PSY100SS and 215.

  
  • PSY 360 - Psychopathology

    (4 credits)
    This course will provide a broad survey of what is considered to be disordered in behavior, emotional expression, and cognition in adults. Emphasis will be placed on a scientific view of psychopathology. The two main foci of the course are the (a) description of various behaviors, symptoms, syndromes and illnesses as described in the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of the American Psychiatric Association, and (b) research and theories concerning etiology including discussion of environmental, biological, social and interactive perspectives. While intervention and childhood disorders will be discussed, they are not the primary focus of this course.

    Prerequisite: 4 credits of psychology courses.

  
  • PSY 390 - Psychology Seminar

    (2 or 4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    A study of a selected topic.

    Note: The course may be repeated on different topics for a total of 8 credits.

    Prerequisites: PSY100SS and four additional credits in psychology.

  
  • PSY 398 - Directed Study


  
  • PSY 402 - Introduction to Clinical and Counseling Psychology

    (2 credits, non-yearly, consult department)
    This advanced seminar provides a first exposure to the theory and practice of clinical and counseling psychology. This exposure will include the history of clinical psychology and counseling psychology, the current state of the profession, ethical dilemmas, and controversies within the field. We will also touch on theories of psychotherapy, as well as the integration of Christian faith with clinical practice.

    Prerequisites: PSY100SS and four additional credits in psychology.

  
  • PSY 406 - Psychology Research Lab

    (4 credits)
    As a culminating experience, senior students conduct a semester-long empirical research project and produce an APA-formatted report. This is substantive project that allows the student to individually explore a self-selected research topic in depth and to experience the research process from initial idea to finished publication-ready manuscript. It challenges the student to think creatively, to integrate knowledge and skills obtained throughout the psychology curriculum, and to produce a worthwhile contribution to the field.

    Prerequisites: 20 credits of psychology courses including PSY215 and 216.

  
  • PSY 417 - Internship

    (4 credits may apply toward the major)
  
  • PSY 418SR - Senior Capstone: Psychology, Faith and Values

    (4 credits)
    This course is the senior capstone to the psychology major as well as one’s entire Northwestern education. The course challenges students to thoughtfully reflect on and integrate their education in psychology and across the curriculum with their personal, intellectual, spiritual and vocational life. In particular, a sizeable literature has developed which focuses on the relationship between Christian faith, philosophical assumptions and psychology. Through reading, discussing, writing and oral presentation, students will examine some of this literature and ask: How can a scientific psychology be compatible with a person-oriented Christianity? How can I integrate my view of the world with psychological theory and methods? Where do I go from here to serve God and neighbor?

    Prerequisites: 12 credits of psychology courses and at least junior status.

  
  • PSY 420 - Directed Research

    (1-4 credits)
    Directed research involves students in research projects conducted under the supervision of department faculty.

    Note: Encouraged for those students with expectations of graduate study. With the approval of the department, students may register for more than one semester.

    Prerequisites: 8 credits of psychology, approval of the research director and the department chair.

  
  • REL 150 - Christian Story I: Biblical Tradition

    (4 credits)
    This course presents an overview of and orientation to the Bible, focusing on its content, character, role in the Christian faith, and covenant themes of creation, fall, redemption, and new creation. This course begins the development of theological thinking for academic study in the liberal arts and equips students for the task of integrating faith and learning in their academic work. Students should complete this course by the end of their second semester.

    Note: Does not count toward a religion major or minor.

  
  • REL 250 - Christian Story II: Theological Tradition

    (4 credits)
    This course presents an overview and orientation to Christian theology focusing on its formation, content, role in the Christian faith throughout Church history, and its interpretation of key biblical subjects such as God, Christ, creation, sin, redemption, church, and new creation. This course completes the Christian Story sequence and prepares students for a lifetime of critical thinking and faithful living from a biblical-theological perspective. Students should complete this course by the end of their fourth semester.

    Note: Does not count toward a religion major or minor.

    Prerequisite: REL150.

  
  • REL 260 - Christian Ethics

    (2 credits, offered at the discretion of the department, consult department)
    A biblically based, theologically and historically informed study of both personal and social moral issues from a Christian perspective.

  
  • REL 280 - History of Christianity

    (4 credits)
    A survey of the development of Christianity from the apostolic period to the contemporary world. Themes examined will include the separation of Church and Synagogue, Christianity in the Roman Empire, ecumenical councils, missionary expansion of the church in Europe and Asia, monasticism, the church in the High Middle Ages, the Protestant and Catholic Reformations, Confessionalism and the Wars of Religion, Puritanism, Pietism, The Enlightenment, Christianity and European Colonialism, Revivalism, Modernism and Evangelicalism, modern missionary expansion, the ecumenical movement, and Christianity as a global religion.

  
  • REL 290 - Christian Witness and Community Development

    (4 credits)
    This course is an examination of Christian witness as verbal proclamation (evangelism), reasoned defense (apologetics), as a distinctive lifestyle and as social action (justice). Students will explore the meaning of the gospel, in the context of a biblical theology of God’s holistic plan of redemption, and various models of evangelism, apologetics and justice, especially the model of Christian community development.

    Prerequisite: REL250 or permission of instructor.

  
  • REL 294 - Introduction to Christian Missions

    (2 credits)
    A general overview of the biblical foundations and historical evolution of Christian mission, with special emphasis upon the modern development of mission theory and practice.

    Prerequisite: REL250.

  
  • REL 295 - Intercultural Communication

    (2 credits)
    Christian ministry and mission is essentially an ongoing process of interacting effectively with others in ways appropriate to one’s message and global/local contexts. By providing a progressively integrated understanding of intercultural issues, this course will enable students to apply principles of communication through their particular vocation or ministry so that they connect theory with models and practice to appropriately communicate the Gospel message across cultures and micro-cultures.

  
  • REL 310 - Christian Spirituality

    (2 credits)
    A study of the meaning, purpose and practices of Christian spirituality as this has been understood in the Christian tradition. The course emphasizes the practice of spiritual disciplines and the relevance of spirituality in our contemporary world.

    Prerequisite: REL250.

  
  • REL 317 - Topics in Old Testament Studies

    (2 credits)
    A study of a single book or larger section of the Old Testament or a current area of critical inquiry concerning the Old Testament. Possible topics include, but are not limited to, the Pentateuch, the Historical Writings, the Prophets, and the Poetic and Wisdom books.

    Note: May be taken more than once provided a different topic is studied.

    Prerequisites: REL150 and sophomore class standing.

  
  • REL 322 - Topics in New Testament Studies

    (2 credits)
    A study of a single book or larger section of the New Testament or a current area of critical inquiry concerning the New Testament. Possible topics include the Synoptic Gospels, the Book of Acts, the Johannine Literature, the Epistolary Literature, and the Apocalypse.

    Note: May be taken more than once provided a different topic is studied.

    Prerequisite: REL150 and sophomore class standing.

  
  • REL 328WI - Biblical Interpretation and Theology

    (4 credits) (Writing intensive)
    An examination of the past and present methods and proposals for Biblical Interpretation and Biblical Theology. The course will analyze and critique various models for hermeneutics and theological interpretation and also assist students in constructing exegetical methods that are biblically based, theologically informed and culturally relevant. In this Writing Intensive course for Religion and CE/YM majors, students will develop research and writing skills that will benefit them in a variety of vocational paths within the field of religion.

    Prerequisite: REL150.

  
  • REL 335x - Theology and Church Ministry

    (4 credits; alternate years, consult department)
    In this course, students will explore the identity of the church by engaging biblical, historical, cultural, and missional perspectives, grounding the life and ministry of the church in God’s ministry to the world in Jesus Christ. More specifically, this course will focus on the nature and role of youth ministry as an expression of this ministry as students are called to enter into the experiences of young people within contemporary Western culture.

    Prerequisite: REL250.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in Christian education.
  
  • REL 345 - Theology of Worship

    (4 credits; alternate years, consult department)
    The purpose of this course is to thoughtfully examine the biblical, theological, and historical foundations of Christian worship, as well as the contemporary issues facing pastors and worship leaders in the 21st century. An important part of this discussion will be the exploration of worship skills and practices through reflection and participation, as well as the creation of liturgies for a variety of worship services.

    Prerequisite: REL250.

  
  • REL 350 - Theology and Popular Culture

    (4 credits; alternate years, consult department)
    This course explores the relationship between Christian faith and culture. It will begin by establishing a biblical and theological approach to cultural engagement, as well as a brief historical survey of how the Christian community has engaged issue of faith and culture in different historical and cultural moments. An important part of this course will be interdisciplinary exploration of the fields of “cultural theory” and “popular culture”, specifically focusing upon what they have to contribute to different forms of Christian ministry. Finally, this course will prove the opportunity for students to begin to articulate what it means to live faithfully with a diversity of cultural contexts.

    Prerequisite: REL250.

  
  • REL 370 - Calvin and Calvinism

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    A study of John Calvin’s INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, as well as a survey of other varieties of Reformed theology, including later Calvinism.

    Prerequisite: REL250.

  
  • REL 375 - Topics in Theology

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    A study of one or more standard areas of theology, (such as the doctrines of Revelation, God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, Humanity, Salvation, the Church, and Last Things) from a classical as well as a contemporary perspective.

    Note: The course may be repeated for credit provided a different topic is studied.

    Prerequisites: REL150 and REL250.

  
  • REL 382 - Religion in America

    (4 credits)
    Focusing on the Christian tradition, this course will examine the individual, institutions, movements and faith traditions which have shaped and contributed to the American religious experience. To understand both the variety of and unity within the pluralist religious landscape, the course will seek to evaluate the interrelationship between religion and the broader social, cultural and political aspects of the American experience.

  
  • REL 384 - Topics in the History of Christianity

    (2 credits, offered on demand or discretion of department, consult department)
    A historical study of a religious group, theological movement or important leader in the history of the Christian church.

    Note: This course may be repeated for credit provided a different topic is studied.

  
  • REL 385 - Topics in Religion

    (2-4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    A study of an interdisciplinary area of religion, not sufficiently covered by other courses, in response to student or faculty interests.

    Note: This course may be repeated for credit provided a different topic is studied.

    Prerequisite: REL250 or permission of instructor.

  
  • REL 390CC - World Religions

    (4 credits) (NWC option under Cross-Cultural Engagement)
    The major religions of the world are examined in the light of the Christian faith. This course emphasizes the interaction of religion and culture with a view to cross-cultural understanding. In-depth research into a specific topic related to world religions is required.

  
  • REL 392 - Topics in Missiology

    (4 credits, alternate years, consult department)
    A topical and selective study of major missiological themes, permitting students to read and reflect intensively upon the nature and challenge of Christian mission. Topics will vary from year to year. Sample topics might include Religious Conversion, The Finality of Christ in a Pluralistic World, Interfaith Dialogue, Contextualization, Women in Mission Yesterday and Today.

    Note: This course may be repeated for credit provided a different topic is studied.

    Prerequisite: REL294 or permission of instructor.

  
  • REL 398 - Directed Study


  
  • REL 417 - Internship

    (2 credits may apply toward the major)
  
  • REL 420 - Topics in Christian Community Development

    (4 credits)
    This is an interdisciplinary course that will analyze a major topic in Christian community development related to relocation, reconciliation and redistribution. There will be significant biblical and theological content integrated with the given topic. A service learning component, consisting of at least 20 hours of student engagement in meeting an identified community need, is required. Students will integrate course materials and various disciplines with their service learning and any past Christian community development experiences. Students will also explore questions and issues raised in this area. This course features the writing and presentation of a major integration paper, discussions, analysis and critique of research.

    Prerequisites: REL290 and senior class standing.

  
  • REL 472SR - Bible, Theology and Vocation: Exploring Texts and Contexts

    (4 credits)
    This disciplinary capstone course fulfills both the NWCore Senior Seminar (SR) requirement and a requirement for Religion and CE/YM majors. Building on the basic FYS questions (Who am I? Who are my neighbors? How will we live in the world?), this course will explore the intersection of biblical theology with one’s vocation in light of scripture and Christian theological reflection. Students will complete weekly writing assignments, participate in seminar leadership through presiding and lecturing, and complete a major final paper in which they reflect on their college curricular and co-curricular experiences, engage biblical and theological texts in light of a variety of ancient and modern cultural contexts, and reflect on their faith development and sense of vocation.

    Prerequisites: REL150, REL250 and senior class standing. The course is open to students of other majors.

  
  • SOC 101SS - Principles of Sociology

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Self and Society)
    An introduction to sociology, its major concepts, tools and perspectives. This course provides an understanding of societies; of culture; of major social institutions such as the family, religion and education; of social inequality; and of social change.

  
  • SOC 202 - Social Problems

    (4 credits)
    This course is about learning to critically think about society and various problems in society. This course will examine a number of social issues as we wrestle with how we can decide if an issue is a social problem, decide which social problems might be more significant than others, and evaluate potential solutions for social problems. We are going to wrestle with some challenging questions with the goal of helping us to think deeply about how we might seek justice on an individual level and within society.

  
  • SOC 210SS - Marriage and Family

    (4 credits) (NWCore option under Self and Society)
    This class employs the sociological imagination to think about what “family” is and how the social world has shaped both families and the images and ideals that suggest what families or marriage should be. This class will use the tools of sociology to think critically about “family” as a social institution. We will wrestle with various ways of defining what family is, work to understand how families are shaped by the social world, and ask if using the sociological imagination can help us to look at current debates about family in a new and productive way.

  
  • SOC 214x - Social Psychology

    (4 credits)
    This course involves the study of the way individuals think about, influence and relate to one another. Topics include: attitude change, social thinking, conformity, obedience, persuasion, prejudice, aggression, altruism, roles, norms and environmental influences on social behavior. The major aim of the course is to encourage an appreciation of the relationship between personal and situational determinants of social behavior.

    Prerequisite: PSY100SS, 221SS, or SOC101SS.

    Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in psychology.
  
  • SOC 218 - Deviance and Social Control

    (4 credits)
    In this course, we are going to explore a number of questions about the boundaries of acceptability within societies. Instead of just taking such boundaries for granted, we will look at how the creation of normality and deviance is a process of social construction. We will examine how society can influence or constrain people to live within or outside of the socially constructed boundaries. As we explore this subject, we will be challenged to reexamine our own understanding of what is deviant and what is normal, to reflect on how definitions of deviance shape our identities and values, and to wrestle with how definitions of deviance and attempts at social control affect others.

 

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