Courses listed in this catalog are subject to change through normal academic channels. New courses and changes in existing coursework are initiated by respective departments or programs. Courses numbered 100–199 are primarily for freshmen; 200–299 for sophomores; 300–399 for juniors; 400–499 for seniors. Courses with numbers preceded by zeros represent courses that will appear on the transcript but are not applicable toward graduation requirements.
Experiential Learning: Internship
Non-classroom experience in the field of ministry, non-profit, or other related areas. Credit for experience must be sought prior to occurence. Placements are generally part-time and off campus. Course includes…
Independent Study
With the consent of chairperson and in consulation with a faculty member in the department, a student may engage in independent study in any of the areas approved by the instructor. Goals and objectives, and courses of…
Theology for the Adult Learner
Designed specifically for the adult student, this course is an examination of critical Christian doctrines and theological concepts that ground the Catholic, Franciscan, and liberal arts identity of Viterbo University.…
The Gospels
A concentrated exploration and study of the four Gospel narratives of Jesus Christ and their place within Christianity and the modern world. An in-depth study of the history and content of each Gospel will be presented.…
Religion and Film
This course uses films (and similar media) to help participants develop an ability to recognize theological and religious themes and pratice methods for theological reflection. A variety of films will be shown, rated G…
This course delves into foundational materials for developing a personal spirituality based on Christian principles for spiritual development. It will promote an understanding of the influence that spirituality, beliefs…
The Historical Search for Truth
A survey of the history of the Christian Church: its leaders, conflicts and development from the age of the Apostles to contemporary times. A study of the impact of church history for todays religious experience.…
Theology in Contemporary Culture
This class is designed to familiarize students with Christian tradition-its scripture, history, and doctrines-and its application and misapplication to the contemporary world. Banking on the adult learners experience…
Theology of Justice and Peace
A study of the meaning of justice and peace: in the Biblical context, in social encyclicals and in our lives as Christians today. An examination of forms of violence and oppression in persons and in structures. Emphasis…
Franciscan Theology
A survey of the major theological contributions of the Franciscan intellectual tradition that include the writings of Francis, Clare, Bonaventure, Scotus, Ockham and others. Students will consider the theological…
This course will examine historical, contemporary and emergent roles of women in communities of religous thought and practice, and will analyze systemic issues regarding gender, class, race, and ethnicity. It will…
Foundations for Public Ministry
This course is designed to equip persons to serve effectively as reflective leaders in the contemporary church and related Christian or faith-based ministries. This course includes a comprehensive and holistic study of…
Faith and Environmental Justice
While this course is rooted in Biblical, Franciscan, and Catholic social teaching, it will also explore other spiritualities (Islam, Judaism, Native American, etc.) that respond to environmental issues. Social analysis…
Christianity and Economic Equality
In the face of the vast, increasing economic inequality, this seminar interrogates the role of religious institutions and individuals. Do our religious institutions sustain or challenge economic inequality, and how This…
Contemporary Practice in World Religions is a course introducing students to diverse religious traditions. Coursework will review various faith practices in their contemporary applications. Students will explore the…
Foundations of Ritual and Worship
This course considers the origins and developments of, as well as the current theological issues concerning Christian rites and symbols. Students will engage with the shape and practice of worship and rituals as they…
Contemporary Moral Issues
This course delves into the processes of moral interpretation and moral decision making in the fast-changing contemporary world. Students will learn the foundations for a moral decision-making process and the various…
Capstone: Interpreting Religion
This two semester course requires the student to work closely with two religious studies professors writing a major research paper that integrates historical, practical, exegetical, and systematic theology in a paper…
Special Topics
Courses on topics of interest to religious studies students offered on the basis of need, interest, or timeliness. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher. May be repeated for credit. For specific…
Experiential Learning: Internship
Non-classroom experiences in the field of ministry, non-profit, or other related areas. Placements are off-campus, and may be full- or part-time, and with or without pay. Includes internship experience arranged by…
Independent Study
With the consent of chairperson and in consulation with a faculty member in the department, a student may engage in independent study in any of the areas approved by the instructor. Goals and objectives, and courses of…
Introduction to Sociology
This course will introduce students to the theories and scientific methods that sociologists use to explain human behavior and describe the organization of society. Students will acquire a sociological perspective to…
This course will provide students with an overview of the criminal justice system. The structure and function of the police, courts, and corrections, as well as the policies these agencies use to control crime, will be…
Data Analysis in the Social Sciences
This course prepares students to understand, interpret, and conduct analyses of data for psychological studies and experiments. The course emphasizes the following concepts: 1) descriptive statistics (e.g., means,…
Social Gerontology
This course is an introduction to the field of gerontology. It is multidisciplinary, examining biological, psychological, and sociological issues related to the aging process. Major theories, research methods and…