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.

History of Jerusalem as a window onto the nature of the three Abrahamic faiths.

Exploration of the senses and the technologies of pleasure in India, relating this material to some fascinating examples of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist literature.

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

Survey of academic approaches to the study of religion. When possible this course will be taken during the first year of the major or minor.

In-depth exploration of 3D digital, immersive, virtual or extended reality visualizations of cultural heritage, archaeology, historical sites and artifacts, including their legal and ethical dimensions.

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

Examines the history and meaning of drugs, alcohol and altered states of mind in world religions across history.

Course traces the Jewish diaspora from Spain and Portugal with particular attention to how Sephardic Jews maintained ties of culture, commerce, language, and identity.

Explores the intersection between law and religion including ways in which religious traditions conceive of, create, order, and contest law.

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.

Introduction to the major topics, trends, and theoretical approaches in the study of religion.

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.

Offers students a structured environment in which to consider issues in professional development and to discuss their dissertation proposals. Graded CR/NC.

Practical principles for the long-term development of effective teaching within liberal arts disciplines. Graded CR/NC.

Study of Islamic religious texts in multiple genres, primarily in Arabic, though other languages may be offered. Recommended preparation: Advanced Arabic language ability.

Study of varied Asian Buddhist texts in translation and in original languages. Exploration of the major secondary literature on Buddhist texts.

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

Credit on acceptance of dissertation. Graded CR/NC.

Credit on acceptance of dissertation. Graded CR/NC.

Credit on acceptance of dissertation. Graded CR/NC.

Credit on acceptance of dissertation. Graded CR/NC.

Credit on acceptance of dissertation. Graded CR/NC.