Religion

(Ottawa)

The Religion major promotes an investigation of the basic questions of existence: human origin, meaning, purpose, spirituality, and divinity. At Ottawa University, this major promotes a Christian worldview and fosters a comprehension of religious beliefs and practices throughout the world. Students analyze sacred literature and historical contexts to understand the interactions of religion and culture. They consider the role of religion in contemporary America as they seek to clarify their own convictions and moral precepts. Study in this field can profoundly shape individual identity as students examine their personal attitudes, values, and beliefs. Students gain Biblical, theological, and philosophical knowledge that helps them develop respect and appreciation for diversity among persons of different religions, ideologies, and ethnicities. They are encouraged to become critical thinkers, expand their world views and develop a personal sense of responsibility to minister to others. Graduates are prepared to continue their education at the graduate level, enter Christian ministry, teach, or pursue a wide range of careers dedicated to assisting and serving others.

Curriculum

Liberal Arts Studies Seminars

  • LAS 12525 First Year Seminar
  • LAS 42515 Group Problem Solving

Plus one course in each of the following Breadth Areas:

  • Creative and Performing Arts
  • Historical and Cultural Perspectives
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences
  • Mathematical and Logical Systems
  • Natural Sciences (with lab)
  • Language and Communication
  • Health and Wellness
  • Theological and Philosophical Perspectives

Required Major Courses:

  • PHL  11023   Basic Issues in Philosophy
  • REL  20224   The Gospels
  • REL  21024   Christian Thought I
  • REL  31023   Christian Thought II
  • REL  30123   Biblical Book
  • REL  30323   Pentateuch
  • REL  33823   World Religions
  • REL  40224   Christian Ethics
  • REL  41523   Issues in Science and Religion
  • REL  44823   The Life and Thought of Paul
  • REL  49023   Comprehensive in Religion (Capstone Course)

Plus two of the following:

  • PHL  31023   Ethics and Society
  • REL  20723   Introduction to Youth Ministry
  • REL  22003   Exploration of Personal Ministry
  • REL  30223   Jewish-Christian Relations
  • REL  31223   Introduction to Biblical Hebrew
  • REL  33023   Liberation Theology
  • REL  36523   Christianity in a Pluralistic Society
  • REL  36623   Feminist and Womanist Theologies
  • REL  41023   Internship
  • REL  41223   Introduction to New Testament Greek
  • REL 43003 Non-Western Christianity
  • REL 45523 Topics in Religious Thought

Required Supporting Courses (choose one)

  • ENG  23723   Intermediate Writing OR
  • ENG  31053   Advanced Expository Writing