Religious studies is an academic field that studies religious beliefs, behaviors and
institutions, and the impact these have on the individual, society and culture. Religious
Studies draws upon multiple disciplines and their methodologies such as anthropology,
sociology, psychology, philosophy, history, and literature. Therefore, it attempts
to describe, compare, interpret, and explain religious phenomena systematically in
relation to society as a whole. It emphasize a historical based, cross-cultural perspective,
recognizing the ways in which religion both shapes, and is shaped by, changing socio-cultural
forms. It involves critical reflection on the role and value of religious communities
with respect to both past and contemporary problems and issues.
If you would like more information about this area, or classes we offer please consult
the links on the left or contact Leon Lane.
An introductory study of religion with emphasis upon the varieties, differences, and
similarities of religious experience and expression. The course will examine, through
selected examples, the interaction between religious experience and expression and
their particular social and cultural contexts.
Introduces books of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) using knowledge of literary forms
as well as historical and cultural backgrounds to aid in the interpretation of the
religious and philosophical meanings of the text.
Introduces New Testament using knowledge of literary forms as well as historical and
cultural backgrounds to aid in the interpretation of the religious and philosophical
meanings of the text.
Comparative study of major world and selected regional religions with emphasis on
analysis of belief, ritual, artistic expression and social organization. Eastern and
Western religions are considered. (Same as ANT 130.)
Surveys the historical and theological movements in Christianity from the 1st century
to the mid -16th century. Emphasis will be placed on the interaction of Christian
institutions and religious movements with other prevailing social, cultural, and political
institutions within this timeframe.
Examines central theological teachings, modes of ethical reasoning, key ethical virtues
and norms of major religious traditions from both Eastern and Western Religions. Considers
the lives, sacred stories, dogma and texts of central religious figures as part of
the context for moral thinking in a global setting.
Introduces students to issues in philosophy of religion including defining the concept
of God, arguments for and against the existence of God, the relation between faith
and reason, the nature of religious experience, the problem of evil, and immortality.
Investigates the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth through a critical analysis
of the ancient sources and modern scholarly reconstructions.
Presents the person and thought of the Apostle Paul in social, cultural, political,
philosophical, and theological context. Investigates Paul's ethics and his views as
preserved in the Christian New Testament.
Examines special topics in Religion. Includes but not limited to individual religious
figures, movements, sacred writings, religious traditions and selected eras.
Length of Program
You can earn an associate’s degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.
This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure
that you meet all degree requirements.
