Process Date: 12-JUL-2026
| 100 | UNDERSTANDING RELIGION | Active |
| Long Title: Understanding Religion |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 35 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | FY01 - First Year Friendly G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL02 - 100-199 Introductory Course |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | An introduction to the academic study of religion exploring cross-culturally some of the fundamental ways in which people experience and understand religion. Questions addressed include: What is religion? What are the basic forms of religious life? What connections exist among self-identity, the sacred, and society? How do those connections help to establish meaning and values in human existence? How is religious knowledge possible? Readings include primary religious texts and critical reflections on religion. Intended primarily for freshmen and sophomores or students with no prior work in the religious studies department. |
| 150 | INTRODUCTION TO HEBREW BIBLE | Active |
| Long Title: Introduction to the Hebrew Bible |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL02 - 100-199 Introductory Course |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | This course will examine high points of the Hebrew Bible, beginning with the Torah but moving on to the history, poetry, wisdom, and prophetic voices that have made it a major work of world literature. We will start by thinking about how these works fit into a particular historical context, but move forward to sample how these texts have shaped Judaism and influenced other religious traditions and how its language and themes have been repurposed by literary writers and social activists. |
| 155 | HINDUISM | Active |
| Long Title: Hinduism |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL02 - 100-199 Introductory Course |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | A survey of the religious elements that constitute the broad system of beliefs known as Hinduism. Emphasis is placed on lived religious experience, but intellectual history and dominant patterns of ritual are also covered. Readings include primary texts, comic books, videos and other multimedia content. |
| 156 | BUDDHISM | Active |
| Long Title: Buddhism |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | FY01 - First Year Friendly G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL02 - 100-199 Introductory Course |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | An introductory survey of the history, development, beliefs, and practices of Buddhism. The course is modeled on a traditional Buddhist framework of teaching known as "hearing, contemplating, and meditating." In addition to reading primary and secondary sources, students will also be required to engage in some basic meditation practices as part of this course. Other assignments may include: exams, papers, and projects. |
| 160 | CHRISTIANITY | Active |
| Long Title: Christianity |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | FY01 - First Year Friendly G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL02 - 100-199 Introductory Course |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | An introductory survey of primarily western Christianity. Our focus will be on selected "classic" works written by Christians over the last two thousand years. Discussion with occasional lectures. Assignments include short papers (3-5 pages) and in-class tests. |
| 165 | ISLAM | Active |
| Long Title: Islam |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL02 - 100-199 Introductory Course |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | An introduction to Islam. Students begin with the Quran and gain familiarity with its themes and style. The second part is an examination of the mysticism of the Sufis. We see Islam rooted in a great medieval city like Cairo. Finally, we examine trends in contemporary Islam, ranging from fundamentalism to moderate versions of Islam in Senegal, Indonesia, and the US. |
| 191 | DIRECTED STUDY IN REL STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Directed Study in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 14 - Directed Study | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL02 - 100-199 Introductory Course |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 199 | INDEP STUDY IN REL STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Independent Study in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 10 - IS | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL02 - 100-199 Introductory Course |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Advanced research, arranged in consultation with the department. Students planning an honors project should register for this course, for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 201 | RELIGION & POLITICS IN THE US | Active |
| Long Title: Religion and Politics in the United States |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 20 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | An examination of the relationship between religion and politics in the United States. Topics will include: the place of religion in the public sphere (both historically and constitutionally); First Amendment protections and restrictions; Christianity and social justice movements (abolition, civil rights, abortion); the notion of “civil religion”; the rise of “Christian nationalism” in the 21st century. |
| 203 | PARANORMAL RELIGION | Active |
| Long Title: Paranormal Religion |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 25 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | FY01 - First Year Friendly G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | Ghosts, angels, spirits, UFOs and reincarnation: cultures around the world feature reports (and everyday practices) involving a variety of extraordinary phenomena, supernatural powers, and more-than-human entities. This course draws on scholarship in anthropological, ethnographic, historical, and religious studies to examine how scholars have studied apparently paranormal phenomena, and the often significant effects that reports of such phenomena have in culture and society. |
| 205 | RELIGION AND THE BIOSPHERE | Active |
| Long Title: Religion and the Biosphere |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | RLST 205 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 14 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | Sophomore standing |
| Description: | A look at how humans have made sense of existing in the biosphere. We will examine views on the nature of life in religious traditions like ancient Egypt and Jainism as well as early philosophical accounts. The second half will involve a close reading of Charles Darwin and reflection on resources offered by religious traditions to respond to the "sixth extinction." Lecture/discussion with written assignments and journaling on the coming of spring. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing |
| 210 | HINDUISM | Active |
| Long Title: Hinduism |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | A survey of the religious elements that constitute the broad system of beliefs known as Hinduism. Emphasis is placed on lived religious experience, but intellectual history and dominant patterns of ritual are also covered. Readings include primary texts, comic books, videos and other multimedia content. |
| 214 | BUDDHISM IN NORTH AMERICA | Active |
| Long Title: Buddhism in North America |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div G044 - GER Dimens Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | Previous course in Buddhist Studies, or sophomore standing |
| Description: | This course will explore the complex dimensions of Buddhism in North America, covering the history and development of Buddhist traditions beginning in the 19th century, and the practices, beliefs, and traditions that have formed as a result. In studying contemporary developments within North American Buddhism, we will focus primarily on the writings and teachings of Asian-American and Black Buddhists in the United States. PREREQUISITES: Previous course in Buddhist Studies, or sophomore standing |
| 222 | AUGUSTINE: HERETIC TO SAINT | Active |
| Long Title: The Theology of St. Augustine: From Heretic to Saint |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | An introduction to the thought of Augustine of Hippo. This late 4th/early 5th century "father" of classical Christianity is one of the most important and influential Christian thinkers in the west. We will concentrate on two of his works: Confesssions (his spiritual autobiography, describing his evolution from lusty adolescent, through the perils of heresy, to his conversion to Christianity) and City of God (his magnum opus that details the superiority of all things Christian over Roman life and culture, as well as providing a history of the world from Creation to Judgment Day). Course will be taught by discussion and will have both papers and a take- home exam. |
| 236 | THE ARABIC NOVEL AND THE TABOO | Active |
| Long Title: The Arabic Novel and the Taboo |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | An introduction to contemporary novels from the Middle East and North Africa that explores how Arab writers deal with religious, social, political and sexual taboos in their artistic works as well as issues of censorship and confiscation of literary productions. Lecture with group presentations, class discussions and a final analytical paper. |
| 237 | CAIRO: THE CHANGING CITY | Active |
| Long Title: Cairo: the Changing City |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | An examination of the representation of Cairene urban and social spaces in the fictions of contemporary Egyptian writers such as Naguib Mahfouz, Ahdaf Soueif and others. Literary analysis will lead the students to investigate how representations of urban changes become a means for the novelist to reflect on the social and political changes of postcolonial Egypt. Lectures, class discussion and a final paper. |
| 243 | MEDIUM IS THE MIRACLE: AI/GOD | Active |
| Long Title: The Medium is the Miracle: AI & God |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | This course will compare the origin story of AI with that of the internet, asking how they differ as mediums. How does Marshall McLuhan’s “The Medium Is the Message” dictum apply to AI? We will explore how AI is reshaping religious institutions and traditional authority through its expanding capacities. Finally, we will consider how popular AI chat interactions are transforming assumptions about the Self and fulfilling the ancient hope of getting God to talk back. Assignments include critical writing, hands-on prompt experimentation. |
| 245 | APPLE, GOOGLE, FACEBOOK | Active |
| Long Title: Apple, Google, Facebook |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | RLST 245 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 20 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | Sophomore standing |
| Description: | The rhetoric surrounding technology invokes revolution and newness, but the products and services fit with the individualism of American (and global) views of self and society. We will examine both the positive visions offered by tech thinkers like Steward Brand and Ray Kurzweil, as well as the destructive results that occur as corporations “move fast and break things.” Students will complete a video critique of a digital platform. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing |
| 261 | BUDDHIST TEXTS: HEART SUTRA | Active |
| Long Title: Buddhist Wisdom Texts: The Heart Sutra |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | RLST 261 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 25 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course FY01 - First Year Friendly G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | This course examines the Heart Sutra, a short work that conveys the essence of Buddhist philosophy. Student learn to read the text in Tibetan (developing skills in pronunciation, basic grammar, and vocabulary). Students also engage English-language readings that explore philosophy, history, geography and gender in the Heart Sutra. Vocabulary and reading quizzes, short translations, short paper. |
| 265 | ARABIAN NIGHTS | Active |
| Long Title: Arabian Nights |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div G044 - GER Dimens Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | The Arabian Nights, or 1,001 Nights, offers a unique glimpse into medieval Islam. Our readings from these tales will be supplemented with travel narratives and Sufi texts building on this storytelling tradition. The course provides an expansive view of the Islamic tradition and a chance to think critically about later perceptions of the Middle East. Students will complete an interpretive paper or digital mapping project. |
| 281 | TOPICS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Topics in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 3 OR 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus, LU London Centre |
| Attributes: | A015 - Topics Course G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | This course represents an exploration of a topic in religious studies. Topics will emphasize contemporary questions and experiential learning. Assignments will emphasize experiential learning and discussion. May be repeated when topic is different. TOPICS FOR Fall 2026: DANTE'S INFERNO PREREQUISITES: None This class devotes the term to reading through a modern English translation of the fourteenth-century Italian classic, Dante's "Inferno." We will discuss this exciting journey into the underworld from a variety of perspectives relating to its historical, artistic, theological, and linguistic contexts. |
| 290 | RELIGION IN ANCIENT EGYPT | Active |
| Long Title: Religion in Ancient Egypt: Pyramids, Wisdom, and Eternal Life |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G008 - XX UL Humanities GER (86cr) G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity N004 - XX BM Language & Civ (95cr) N013 - XX BM Humanities (01cr) S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | Sophomore standing or consent of instructor |
| Description: | We will examine the religious tradition of Egypt as it developed in the old, middle, and new kingdoms. Ideas about eternal life as detailed in the Pyramid Texts and embodied in the Pyramids will be closely studied, along with the tradition of wisdom literature. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor |
| 291 | FLD EXPERIENCE RELIGS STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Field Experience in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 3 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes 6 units max | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A013 - Community Based Learning A015 - Topics Course G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | This course provides the opportunity to experience a major religious tradition through a one- or two-week field experience accompanied by a professor. Class members will visit significant historical and contemporary sites and meet with practitioners during a break between terms. Students must register for the course in the term prior to travel and in the subsequent term, when they will complete a project. Travel program fee plus airfare. |
| 305 | ATHEISM, AGNOSTICISM, NIHILISM | Active |
| Long Title: Atheism, Agnosticism, and Nihilism |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | Sophomore standing |
| Description: | This course is an examination of three contemporary positions which typically claim to be anti- or non-religious in orientation. We will explore the historical origins of each view (or, more precisely, each cluster of views) as well as analyzing its coherence and intelligibility. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing |
| 312 | QUEER & TRANS STUDIES RELIGION | Active |
| Long Title: Queer and Trans Studies in Religion |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | RLST 312 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 20 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course A011 - Paired Course FY01 - First Year Friendly G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity G044 - GER Dimens Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | This course examines queer and trans approaches in religious studies. Discussions examine concepts of (homo)sexuality and (trans)gender in various global and historical contexts, ranging from ancient and medieval sources to contemporary communities. Readings include works in queer and trans religious studies (e.g., Gloria Anzaldua, Michel Foucault, Hsiao-Lan Hu, Afsaneh Najmabadi, Jasbir K. Puar, Max K. Strassfeld, Roberto Strongman, Melissa M. Wilcox). Discussion, presentation, final paper. Not open to students who have previously received or need to receive credit for RLST 512 or GEST 512. |
| 326 | NIETZSCHE | Active |
| Long Title: Nietzsche and 19th-Century Critiques of Religion |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | Sophomore standing or consent of instructor |
| Description: | An examination of the thought of Friedrich Nietzsche, focusing on his critique of Christianity and his general theory of religion, as well as what Paul Ricouer calls his "hermeneutics of suspicion." Some discussion of other 19th-century critiques of religion (e.g., Feuerbach, Marx) will be included to provide historical context and contrast. Seminar with short papers and in-class presentations. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor |
| 330 | RATIONALITY & RELIGIOUS BELIEF | Active |
| Long Title: Rationality and Religious Belief |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | RLST 330 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 20 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | Sophomore standing |
| Description: | An examination of the range of views on the relationship between reason and religion, focusing in particular on theistic belief. Questions addressed include: Can God’s existence be proven? Is faith different from ordinary belief? Does mystical experience provide adequate grounds for religious belief? PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing |
| 333 | GOD AND THE AFTERLIFE | Active |
| Long Title: God and the Afterlife |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | PHIL 333 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 20 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | This course will focus on the nature of God and the afterlife from the perspective of the Abrahamic and Indian Hindu and Buddhist traditions, including arguments for and against the existence of God and the afterlife. Does God or the afterlife exist? Does either provide us with reason to be good? Students will be evaluated on the basis of expository and critical essays and presentations. |
| 352 | COLONIALISM & GLBL STRUCTURES | Active |
| Long Title: Colonialism and Global Structures |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | GLST 352 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | Sophomore standing |
| Description: | This course focuses on the ideologies of European colonialism in the 19th and 20th centuries. It investigates the myths and realities of colonialism and compares the experiences of people in Africa, the Caribbean, Indonesia, and India. We pay attention to the way religious traditions are shaped and deformed in this process. Analysis is informed by essays written by anticolonial theorists such as Gandhi and Fanon, and by novels and films. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing |
| 353 | BUDDHISM AND GENDER | Active |
| Long Title: Buddhism and Gender |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | RLST 353 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity G044 - GER Dimens Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | This discussion-based course investigates the ways in which women and gender minorities participate in Buddhist culture around the world. By reading texts by and about Buddhist women, this course will explore the extent to which gender affects social status, leadership roles, and access to education in Buddhist communities in South Asia, East Asia, and the United States. |
| 355 | QURAN | Active |
| Long Title: Quran |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | RLST 240 |
| Description: | An examination of the Quran in its historical context, which will include reading of pre-Islamic poetry and the earliest biographical traditions about Muhammad. We will read the work of recent historians like Fred Donner and Patricia Crone who have offered revisionist views of the earliest Islamic community. PREREQUISITES: RLST 240 |
| 390 | TUTORIAL IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Tutorial Studies in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 09 - Tutorial | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Advanced research, arranged and carried out under the direction of an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 391 | DIRECTED STUDY IN REL STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Directed Study in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 14 - Directed Study | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 398 | THE PROBLEM OF EVIL | Active |
| Long Title: The Problem of Evil |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 15 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | One course in RLST recommended |
| Description: | An examination of the problem of evil from three points of view: the philosophical (which treats evil as a logical and/or evidential problem for the existence of an omni-God); the theological (which regards evil as an existential and/or soteriological problem); the secular (which seeks to develop a vocabulary for speaking about evil in a non-religious, “post-metaphysical” context.) Taught by discussion; requirements include papers (5-7 pages in length), discussion forum posts, and bluebook tests. PREREQUISITES: One course in RLST recommended |
| 399 | INDEP STUDY IN REL STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Independent Study in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 10 - IS | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL03 - 200-399 Foundation/Gateway Crs |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Advanced research, arranged in consultation with the department. Students planning an honors project should register for this course, for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 400 | THEMES IN MOD WEST REL THOUGHT | Active |
| Long Title: Themes in Modern Western Religious Thought |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 15 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | Sophomore standing |
| Description: | A critical survey of one or more of the distinctive themes in the religious thought of the West since the Reformation. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing |
| 450 | CLASSIC TXTS RELIGIOUS STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Classic Texts in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 3 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A015 - Topics Course G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | sophomore standing |
| Description: | This course will focus on reading a classic text related to the field of religious studies. The work chosen could be related to the philosophy or sociology of religion or have theological or historical importance within a specific religious tradition. May be repeated when topic is different. TOPICS FOR Fall 2026: Dante's Inferno PREREQUISITES: sophomore standing This class devotes the term to reading through a modern English translation of the fourteenth-century Italian classic, Dante's Inferno from the Divine Comedy. We will discuss this journey into the underworld from a variety of perspectives relating to its historical, artistic, theological, and linguistic contexts. |
| 500 | SEMINAR:KIERKEGAARD | Active |
| Long Title: Seminar: Kierkegaard |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 12 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | Junior standing or consent of the instructor. |
| Description: | Intensive study of the works of the Danish philosopher/theologian considered to be the father of Existentialism. Concentration on Kierkegaard’s view of the self and its relation to his stages of existence, with particular attention to his view of faith. Some consideration to the historical context of his thought and his influence on 20th-century theology and philosophy. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing or consent of the instructor. |
| 512 | QUEER & TRANS STUDIES RELIGION | Active |
| Long Title: Queer and Trans Studies in Religion |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | RLST 512 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 20 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course A011 - Paired Course FY01 - First Year Friendly G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity G044 - GER Dimens Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | Students are expected to complete the same assignments as students taking 312, along with additional readings (e.g., in studying Christianity, in addition to reading about Jesus in the Gospels, advanced students would also read about Paul's letters) and a longer paper. Not open to students who have previously received credit for RLST 312 or GEST 312. |
| 545 | ADV TOPICS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIE | Active |
| Long Title: Advanced Topics in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A015 - Topics Course G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | Instructor approval required |
| Description: | This topics course offers advanced students a seminar in a topic related to a foundations/gateway course offered in the same term. Students engage with more challenging readings and pursue their own scholarship, presenting their research in the companion gateway course as the opportunity arises. Students may have previously taken the companion gateway course but may not enroll concurrently in that course. May be repeated when topic is different. |
| 551 | FOUCAULT & HISTORY OF RELIGION | Active |
| Long Title: Foucault & the History of Religions |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | RLST 551 | Repeatable: | No |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | 15 | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | A005 - Cross-Listed Course G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | This seminar is an intensive study of Michel Foucault, focusing on his analyses of religion. This course also examines how scholars in religious studies have engaged Foucault from various theoretical vantage points (e.g., postcolonialism, feminism, Black studies, queer theory). Supplementary works may include Niki Kasumi Clements, Lynne Huffer, Mark Jordan, Saba Mahmood, Gayatri Spivak, Susan Stryker, Sylvia Wynter. Discussion, presentation, final paper. |
| 575 | RITUAL & WORLDMAKING | Active |
| Long Title: Ritual and Worldmaking |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | |
| Description: | Through comparative study, this course explores how communities sacralize space and time through ritual and narrative. Case studies will include the Hajj to Mecca, Japanese Shinto shrines, the Roman Catholic Mass, and Mormon settlement of Utah. Readings introduce theories of ritual and the sacred. When feasible, we will conduct site visits. Students design an individual project focused on a chosen tradition or anticipated travel. Seminar paper required. |
| 580 | SEMINAR:ISLAM & GLOBALIZATION | Active |
| Long Title: Seminar: Islam and Globalization |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div G042 - GER Global Diversity S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | RLST 240 |
| Description: | This course will examine the transformations of Islam that have accompanied globalization. Our focus will be roughly split between the theoretical perspective on globalization offered by Olivier Roy and the work of Laila Ahmed on gender in contemporary Islam. Students will develop and write a major research paper. PREREQUISITES: RLST 240 |
| 590 | TUTORIAL IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Tutorial Studies in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 09 - Tutorial | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Advanced research, arranged and carried out under the direction of an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 591 | DIRECTED STUDY IN REL STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Directed Study in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 14 - Directed Study | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 599 | INDEP STUDY IN REL STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Independent Study in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 10 - IS | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL04 - 400-599 Advanced Course |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Advanced research, arranged in consultation with the department. Students planning an honors project should register for this course, for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 610 | SENIOR PROJECTS | Active |
| Long Title: Senior Projects |
| Units: | 6 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | No | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | No |
| Permission Req.: | No | Schedule Type: | 01 - Standard | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL05 - 600-699 Capstone Course |
| Prerequisites: | Junior standing |
| Description: | The goal of this class is to give advanced RLST students (juniors or seniors) space to write a paper or finish a senior capstone. We will discuss the challenges of research and the use of sources. Reading will consist of contemporary academic articles designed to highlight styles of argument. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing |
| 690 | TUTORIAL IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Tutorial Studies in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 09 - Tutorial | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL05 - 600-699 Capstone Course |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Advanced research, arranged and carried out under the direction of an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 691 | DIRECTED STUDY IN REL STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Directed Study in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 14 - Directed Study | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL05 - 600-699 Capstone Course |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| 699 | INDEP STUDY IN REL STUDIES | Active |
| Long Title: Independent Study in Religious Studies |
| Units: | 1 TO 98 | Cross-Listing Parent: | Repeatable: | Yes | |
| S/U Only: | No | Enr Limit per Sec: | None | IP Allowed: | Yes |
| Permission Req.: | Yes | Schedule Type: | 10 - IS | Campus: | Appleton Main Campus |
| Attributes: | G032 - GER Humanities Div S038 - Religious Studies Course UD02 - Division of Humanities UL01 - Upper Level Degree Cr (200+) UL05 - 600-699 Capstone Course |
| Prerequisites: | To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |
| Description: | Advanced research, arranged in consultation with the department. Students planning an honors project should register for this course, for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor. |