USC Schedule of Classes

The Hebrew Bible in the cultural setting of the ancient Near East; the formation of theological and ethical concepts which have shaped Western culture.

Religions, cultures, and values of ancient Egypt and Near East (Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, Lebanon, Arabia, Turkey) and their legacies in contemporary society.

Survey of the changing beliefs and practices of the Christian religion from obscure origins to globalized present, with special attention to the varieties of Christian literature.

Introduction to Islam, emphasizing its historical and cultural development since the seventh century C.E., and the basic teachings of Islam.

Examination of the historical continuities and disjunctions between spiritual but not religious Americans; the relationship between spirituality, politics, social change, and the role of media. Concurrent enrollment: WRIT 140.

Analysis of the nature of religion, and various approaches to the study of religion. Majors should take at the beginning of their religion course work.

Varieties of religious experience as reflected in the literature, art, and cultic practices of the Hellenistic world.

History, teaching, and practice of the religions of China, Tibet, and Japan.

In-depth exploration of one of the pivotal moments in the history of Christianity and Western society.

An introduction to Indian philosophy, including major schools of thought in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain philosophies. No previous knowledge of Indian religions or philosophy required.

Traces the development of how religious ideas have informed ethics, or accounts of the good life, including notions of justice, righteousness, virtue, duty, charity and happiness.

Explores whether religion and science offer competing or complementary models for understanding the world and the human place within it.

Religious and moral perspectives on war, pacifism, violent and non-violent protest, and religion-based terrorism and militia.

Individual research and readings. Not available for graduate credit.

Individual research for honors in the major leading to a substantial project.

Research leading to the master's degree. Maximum units which may be applied to the degree to be determined by the department. Graded CR/NC.

Practical principles for the long-term development of effective teaching within college disciplines. Intended for teaching assistants in Dornsife College.