Proposal to Reactivate and Revise the Minor in Religious Studies

Transcription

1 Office of Programs and Academic Assessment (MC 103) 2630 University Hall 601 South Morgan Street Chicago, IL October 9, 2013 TO: FROM: Ilene Harris, Chair Senate Committee on Educational Policy Dana Wright, Director for Academic Program Development I am submitting for review and action by the Senate Committee on Educational Policy the attached Proposal to Reactivate and Revise the Minor in Religious Studies. The proposal was approved by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Educational Policy Committee on April 15, 2013 and the College Faculty on September 24, ATTACHMENT

2 Title: Executive Summary: Sponsor: Description: Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Utilizing several new faculty hires, commitment from college administration, and a visible increase in student and faculty interest, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences plans to re-activate the presently suspended minor in Religious Studies. The minor will continue to require 18 hours (6 courses) 9 hours of which must be at the 200-level or above. However, the revised minor will focus on a broad understanding of religion, focusing on both the socio-historical and the theological/philosophical aspects of the discipline. Students will be exposed to the variety of scholarly approaches to the study of religion, and will be required to take: at least one foundational course from among a list of selectives and three courses that are cross-listed with three distinct units outside Religious Studies. This latter requirement will ensure students receive an interdisciplinary perspective on the study of religion. Finally, students who wish to focus on one particular religious tradition may do so by completing three courses in a single tradition. Religious Studies Program College of Liberal Arts and Sciences The minor in Religious Studies was suspended in Fall 2010 due to the lack of faculty with expertise in Religious Studies, due largely to several faculty departures and a handful of unfilled faculty vacancies. This resulted in a leadership void, reduced course offerings, and a subsequent low number of students in the minor. During the last several years, several new faculty hires, commitment from college administration, and a visible increase in student and faculty interest signify that it is a propitious time to revive and revise the minor as a coherent and student-attractive program at UIC. Significantly, the intellectual focus of Religious Studies at UIC will emphasize an understanding of religion as both a transcendent, theological phenomenon that influences individuals and explains humans relationship with the sacred, and as a social-historical-cultural phenomenon that influences societies and the world in which they exist. Students who are so interested will also be able to focus their studies on one particular faith. The proposal involves: 1. Reactivating the Minor in Religious Studies. 2. Changing the requirements of the minor so that students must take six courses (18 semester hours) with the Religious Studies (RELS) rubric. Within those six courses: at least one must be a foundational course, either RELS 100, Religion in Human Experience (new course); RELS 101, Introduction to World Religions (new course); RELS 115, Understanding the Bible as Literature; RELS 215, Anthropology of Religion; or RELS 241, Philosophy of Religion; at least three (nine semester hours) must be cross-listed with distinct department/programs as selected from African- American Studies, Anthropology, Art History, Architecture, Asian American Studies, Asian Studies, Central and Eastern European Studies, Classics, Economics, English, Gender and Women's Studies, Germanic Studies, History, Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 1

3 International Studies, Italian, Latin American and Latino Studies, Native American Studies, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology. No cross-listed course can be counted twice toward fulfilling the requirement; and at least three (nine semester hours) must be at the 200-level or above. 3. Creating the opportunity for students to optionally select areas of focus defined by one specific faith group (for example, Catholicism, Islam, or Judaism). 4. Permanently cross-listing the following courses with Religious Studies: AAST 120, African American Religious Traditions (renumbered to AAST 125) AAST/HIST 445, History of Islam in the African World AH/ASST 220, Buddhist Art and Architecture ANTH 215, Anthropology of Religion ANTH 271, American Indian Religion and Philosophy CL 208, Greek Mythology GER/JST 123, Introduction to Yiddish Culture and Literature HIST/JST 117, Understanding the Holocaust JST 101, Introduction to Judaism (listed as RELS 121 to prevent duplication) JST 102, Introduction to Jewish History (listed as RELS 122) JST 230, Topics in Jewish Thought (listed as RELS 231) JST 294, Topics in Jewish Studies (listed as RELS 296) JST 394, Topics in Jewish Studies (listed as RELS 395) JST 402, Jewish-Christian Relations before the Modern Era JST 420, Advanced Studies in Jewish Religion JST 430, Advanced Studies in Jewish Thought JST 494, Topics in Jewish Studies PHIL 115, Death (listed as RELS 155) PHIL 241, Philosophy of Religion PHIL 422, Medieval Philosophy PHIL 441, Topics in Philosophy of Religion 5. Renumbering the following Religious Studies courses to allow for easier crosslisting: RELS 320, Major Religious Thinkers, to RELS 292 RELS 330, The Quran, to RELS 279 Justification: 1. The Minor in Religious Studies was suspended because of low enrollments, limited course offerings, and a lack of sustained leadership and faculty involvement. The proposed revision addresses these issues by: (a) taking advantage of increased student interest in the study of religion, as evidenced by the number of independent studies currently being pursued (approximately 5 per semester), student participation in recent job talks and prospective faculty roundtables, and the growth and expansion of student organizations such as the Muslim Student Association, Hillel, Agape, and the Newman Center; (b) taking advantage of newfound faculty interest in Religious Studies, not only due to the hiring of a new Schmitt Chair in Catholic Studies, a tenure-track scholar in Islamic Studies, and the approval of the Chancellor s cluster hires in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Studies and Diaspora Studies, but also Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 2

4 because these hires (and projected hires) have sparked and/or renewed interest from extant faculty in the topic of and themes surrounding religion, including historians, philosophers, political scientists, Classicists, anthropologists, and others; (c) expanding the number of courses cross-listed with Religious Studies in order to better accommodate students who wish to demonstrate deep study of the field; (d) bringing together faculty with interests in religion, both formally and informally, to lay the groundwork for sustained intellectual contact; (e) creating foundational courses from which the sustained study of religion can progress; and (f) acknowledging that religion is both an arena of both personal transcendence (theological and philosophical) and social transformation (anthropological, historical, sociological, and political), while remaining aware that these two impulses obviously overlap. 2. The total number of hours required for the minor is unchanged at 18; however, the requirements of the minor have been revised in a number of ways, with the goal of ensuring a rigorous program of study. (a) Students will be required to take one foundational course in religious studies chosen from: RELS 100, Religion in Human Experience (new course) RELS 101, Introduction to World Religions (new course) RELS 115, Understanding the Bible as Literature RELS 215, Anthropology of Religion RELS 241, Philosophy of Religion Requiring these courses will provide a more solid grounding in the study of religion than has been offered at UIC in the past and will ensure that students who minor in Religious Studies are better prepared for upper-division courses. The courses will also likely act as a recruitment tool for students who might eventually choose to minor in Religious Studies. Furthermore, by making RELS 100 more theological and philosophical, and RELS 101 more historical and sociological, we are able to capture students with both deeply personal reasons for studying religion and those interested in it as a socially transformative phenomenon. (b) Requiring 3 courses (nine semester hours) from at least three distinct cross-listed departments ensures that students are exposed to a variety of methods in which religion is investigated in the academy. (c) Students are challenged not only in the breadth of their courses but also in their depth by having to take at least three courses at the 200-level or above. 3. Under the revised minor, students will be allowed to, if they wish, focus on a single religious tradition. Students may earn a Minor in Religious Studies with a focus on, for example, Catholic Studies, Islamic Studies, or Jewish Studies if they take at least three courses from one specific area. Members of the Religious Studies faculty will determine which courses fit into each focal area, and a single course may fit into more than one area. 4. Several courses are being cross-listed with the religious studies rubric. Newly crosslisted courses will help provide a flexible range of courses by which the requirements for the minor can be met. They also take advantage of many faculty members Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 3

5 interests in religion, and they incorporate a handful of overlooked courses (e.g., AH 220: Buddhist Art and Architecture) from the previous era when the Minor in Religious Studies was active. Instructors who most often teach these courses and/or their department/program executive officers have consented to these proposed crosslists (see attached letters of endorsement). 5. Two religious studies courses are being renumbered as follows. RELS 320, Major Religious Thinkers, to RELS 292 RELS 330, The Quran, to RELS 279 The renumbering of RELS 320 and 330 will not only encourage greater enrollments from students unsure if they are ready for 300-level classes, but also make the courses easier to cross-list, especially with the Department of History, which is a natural cross-list for these courses and which has restrictions on its 300-level courses. (Note: The Department of History reserves the 300-level for its methods courses). Note: The Religious Studies Program is comprised of courses under multiple subjects. This proposal references a handful of new and existing courses under the subject rubric RELS and approximately 2 dozen courses in other departments or programs that will be newly and permanently cross-listed with RELS. However, it should be noted that more than two dozen courses are already offered under the RELS subject rubric. These existing courses are listed below: 115 Understanding the Bible as Literature 3 hours. A broad overview of various literary genres in the Bible such as origin narrative, historical narrative, poetry, wisdom literature, prophetic/apocalyptic literature, parable, and epistle. Same as ENGL 115. Creative Arts course. 120 Catholic Thought: An Introduction 3 hours. Introduction to the main topics, interests, and methods of Catholic thought. Same as CST 120. Past course. 124 Introduction to the Hebrew Bible 3 hours. A study of the Five Books of Moses (a.k.a Torah or Pentateuch) within the contexts of the ancient Near East and biblical literature. Same as CL 124 and JST 124. Taught in English. Past course. 130 Introduction to Islam 3 hours. Introductory study of the religion, culture, and present variety of Islam in Islamic countries and in the West. World Cultures course. 150 Catholicism in U.S. History 3 hours. The Catholic experience in the United States from its colonial origins to the present. Same as CST 150, and HIST 150. US Society course. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 4

6 225 Topics in Muslim-Jewish Relations 3 hours. Muslim-Jewish interactions from the rise of Islam until contemporary times, the relationship between Biblical and Quranic materials, the Jewish and Islamic interpretive tradition and the legal systems of the two religious traditions. Same as CL 225 and JST Topics in Islam 3 hours. Topics, issues, and methodologies in Islamic studies. May be repeated if topics vary. Recommended background: ENGL 160. World Cultures course. 235 Introduction to Jewish Thought I 3 hours. Introduces students to the fundamental Jewish texts, theology, and thought of the Rabbinic period (100CE CE). Topics include: ethics, authority, sexuality, exegesis, and law. Same as CL 235 and JST 235. Prerequisite(s): Sophomore standing or above. 240 Philosophy and Revelation: Jewish and Christian Perspectives 3 hours. Introduction to philosophical ways of addressing the claim that a book (the Bible, the Quran) comes from God. Texts by Immanuel Kant, Moses Mendelssohn, and Soren Kierkegaard, among others. Previously listed as RELS 141. Same as PHIL 240 and JST 240. Prerequisite(s): Two courses in philosophy or consent of the instructor. Individual and Society, and World Cultures course. 242 The History of Jewish Biblical Interpretation 3 hours. Jewish interpretation of the Hebrew bible. A survey of the span of Jewish history and the wide range of cultural contexts that have impacted the understanding of the Torah. Same as CL 242 and JST 242. Past course. 246 Sociology of Religion 3 hours. Analysis of the structures and functions of religious institutions in modern society.special attention to the interplay between religion and other social phenomena, such as economics, politics, and secular culture. Same as SOC 246. Occasional field trips. Prerequisite(s): One social sciences Course Distribution Credit (CDC) course and sophomore standing. Individual and Society, and US Society course. 250 Eastern and Western Philosophies of Religion 3 hours. Eastern and Western philosophies of religion: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and Christianity. Same as INST 250. World Cultures course. 254 Prophets in Judaism and Islam 3 hours. A cross-cultural survey of prophets. Texts include the Hebrew Bible, the Quran and Islamic and Jewish exegetical material. Same as CL 254 and JST 254. Past course. 255 Religious Diversity: Conceptual and Practical Issues 3 hours. The facts of religious diversity and the questions raised by them. Special attention to Catholic Christian perspectives, treating them from secular and other religious perspectives. 256 Religious Experiences in American History 3 hours. A survey of the varieties of religious experience in American history from the sixteenth to the twentieth centuries, with emphasis on social and cultural consequences. Same as HIST 256. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 5

7 293 Dante's Divine Comedy 3 hours. An in-depth study of the Divine Comedy, read in English, against the historical, religious, philosophical and cultural background of the Middle Ages. Same as CST 293 and ITAL 293. Previously listed as RELS 193. Creative Arts, and Past course. 294 Topics in Catholic History 3 hours. An investigation of the impact of human migration and cultural pluralism on Catholicism and an analysis of the role of the Catholic Church in group relations. Topics will vary. Same as CST 294, and HIST 294. May be repeated if topics vary. 295 Topics in Catholic Thought 3 hours. Critical investigation of a topic or topics central to the development of Catholic thought, carried on by study of its proponents and opponents. Topics will vary. Same as CST 295. May be repeated if topics vary. 311 Gender and Sexuality in Early Christianity and Judaism 3 hours. Examination of the root of contemporary perspectives on gender and sexuality in the early traditions of Judaism and Christianity including the Bible, the Epic of Gilgamesh, the Church Fathers, the Talmud, and legends of the saints. Same as GWS 311 and JST Major Religious Thinkers 3 hours. An examination of one or more major/classical thinkers and their writings. May be repeated if topics vary. Prerequisite(s): One 100- or 200-level religious studies course. 330 The Quran 3 hours. Introduction to the text, history of interpretation, and the significance of the Quran. Prerequisites: Junior standing or above; or consent of the instructor and one 200-level course in Islamic studies. 343 Literature and Religion 3 hours. Studies in the relation of literature to doctrines, imagery, practices, experiences, or history of one or more religious traditions. Same as ENGL 343. Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in ENGL 240; and Grade of C or better in ENGL 241 or Grade of C or better in ENGL 242 or Grade of C or better in ENGL Major Problems in Religious Studies 3 hours. In-depth examination of a major topic or problem in religious thought. Topics will vary. May be repeated if topics vary. Prerequisite(s): At least one course in religious studies. 394 Topics in Catholic History and Culture 3 hours. Exploration of various topics in Catholic history and culture. Same as CST 394, and HIST 394. Prerequisite(s): One course in history or Catholic studies; or consent of the instructor. 399 Independent Study 1 TO 3 hours. Selected topics for individual study. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 hours. Students may register in more than one section per term. Prerequisite(s): Sophomore standing or above; and consent of the instructor. Recommended Background: Two courses in religious studies. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 6

8 446 Race, Ethnicity, and Gender in American Religion 3 OR 4 hours. Religious institutions in the U.S. as a crucible for racial, ethnic, and gender identities, group formation, and intergroup relations; major world religions represented in the U.S. Same as SOC undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. Prerequisite(s): SOC 100 and junior standing or above; or consent of instructor. 478 The Bible as Literature: Hebrew Bible 3 OR 4 hours. Literary analysis of genres and themes of the Hebrew Bible and close reading of the biblical texts. Sources of the Bible and their historical context. Same as ENGL 478, and JST undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. Taught in English. Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in ENGL 240; and Grade of C or better in ENGL 241or Grade of C or better in ENGL 242 or Grade of C or better in ENGL 243; or consent of the instructor. 479 The Bible as Literature: New Testament 3 OR 4 hours. Literary analysis of the New Testament and its historical and religious contexts, focusing on the gospels and Pauline letters. Same as ENGL undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in ENGL 240; and Grade of C or better in ENGL 241 or Grade of C or better in ENGL 242 or Grade of C or better in ENGL 243; or consent of the instructor. 495 Topics in Religious History 3 OR 4 hours. Specific topics are announced each term. Same as HIST undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. May be repeated. Students may register in more than one section per term. Prerequisite(s): 3 hours of history or consent of the instructor. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 7

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10 Catalog Statement: Present Minor in Religious Studies The Minor in Religious Studies enables students to be introduced to the academic study of religion from the perspective of the social sciences and humanities. Students are encouraged to develop their plan of study in consultation with a faculty advisor in Religious Studies. Any changes must be approved by the advisor. Proposed Minor in Religious Studies The Minor in Religious Studies introduces students to the academic study of religion. Through broad and diverse offerings, the program invites students to explore many of the world s major religious traditions, as well as the philosophical and theological questions that ground the origins of faith in general. With faculty drawn from departments across campus, the minor encourages students to examine religion and religious phenomenon from a variety of disciplinary perspectives. Note: No new students are being admitted to this minor. Contact the college with any questions. DELETE Requirements for the Minor Students wishing to minor in Religious Studies must complete 18 semester hours, including at least 9 semester hours above the 100-level, from the list of courses approved by the Religious Studies Committee. Requirements for the Minor Students who wish to minor in Religious Studies must complete six RELS courses (18 semester hours). The six courses must include at least one foundational course (RELS 100, RELS 101, RELS 115, RELS 215, and RELS 241). In addition, three of the six courses (9 semester hours) must be at the 200-level or above. Finally, to ensure interdisciplinary perspective, three of the six RELS courses must be cross-listed with three distinct units outside Religious Studies, as selected from the following: African American Studies, Anthropology, Art History, Architecture, Asian American Studies, Asian Studies, Central and Eastern European Studies, Classics, Economics, English, Gender and Women's Studies, Germanic Studies, International Studies, Italian, Latin American and Latino Studies, History, Native American Studies, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology. In addition, students who wish to focus on one religious tradition may do so by taking at least three courses (nine semester hours) from a single tradition, including, but not limited to, Jewish Studies, Islamic Studies, or Catholic Studies. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 9

11 Present Required Courses Religious Studies Minor Hours Two courses from the following: 6 CST/RELS 120 Catholic Thought: An Introduction (3) RELS 130 Introduction to Islam (3) JST 101 Introduction to Jewish Studies: Literature and Society (3) OR JST 102 Introduction to Jewish Studies: Religion and Culture (3) Four additional courses chosen in consultation with an advisor 12 Total Hours Religious Studies Minor 18 Proposed Required Courses Religious Studies Minor Hours One of the following: 3 RELS 100 Religion in Human Experience (3) RELS 101 Introduction to World Religions (3) RELS/ENGL 115 Understanding the Bible as Literature (3) RELS/ANTH 215 Anthropology of Religion (3) RELS/PHIL 241 Philosophy of Religion (3) Any five RELS courses 15 Total Hours Religious Studies Minor 18 Note: When topically relevant, topics courses from other departments may count toward the Minor in Religious Studies, as determined at any time by a committee of faculty in the Religious Studies program. Courses Approved for the Minor in Religious Studies The following courses are approved for a minor in Religious Studies. Students select from this list with the approval of their advisor in Religious Studies. DELETE Courses Hours African American Studies (AAST) 120 African American Religious Traditions History of Islam in the African World Same as HIST Anthropology (ANTH) 215 Non-Western Religions American Indian Religion and Philosophy 3 Art History (AH) 221 History of Medieval Architecture Medieval Art and Architecture I Medieval Art and Architecture II 3 Catholic Studies (CST) 120 Catholic Thought: An Introduction Same as RELS Catholicism in U.S. History Same as HIST 150, RELS Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 10

12 Present 294 Topics in Catholic History Same as HIST 294, RELS Topics in Catholic History and Culture Same as RELS Proposed DELETE Classics and Mediterranean Studies (CL) 207 Greek Temples and Festivals Same as HIST Greek Mythology 3 English (ENGL) 115 Understanding the Bible as Literature Same as JST 115, RELS The Bible as Literature Same as JST Religion and Literature 3 History (HIST) 150 Catholicism in U.S. History Same as CST 150, RELS The American Religious Experience Topics in Catholic History Same as CST 294, RELS Topics in Religious History 3 Jewish Studies (JST) 101 Introduction to Jewish Studies: Literature and Society 3 Present 102 Introduction to Jewish Studies: Religion and Culture Understanding the Bible as Literature Same as ENGL 115, RELS The Bible as Literature Same as ENGL Music (MUS) 230 Music History I (Middle Ages and Renaissance) 3 Philosophy (PHIL) 115 Death Philosophy of Religion Medieval Philosophy Topics in Philosophy of Religion 3 Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 11

13 Present Religious Studies (RELS) 115 Understanding the Bible as Literature Same as ENGL 115, JST Catholic Thought: An Introduction Same as CST Intro to Islam Catholicism in U.S. History Same as CST 150, HIST Eastern and Western Philosophies of Religion Religious Diversity Religious Experiences in American History Same as HIST Topics in Catholic History Same as CST 294, HIST Major Thinkers in Religious Studies Major Problems in Religious Studies Topics in Catholic History and Culture Same as CST Race, Ethnicity, and Gender in American Religion Same as SOC Topics in Religious History Same as HIST Proposed DELETE Sociology (SOC) 246 The Sociology of Religion Race, Ethnicity, and Gender in American Religion Same as RELS Minority Impact Statement: Reactivating the minor in Religious Studies will likely have a positive impact on many of UIC s religious minorities, acknowledging their most deeply held beliefs as serious subjects worthy of academic study, providing an academic home for both subaltern and mainstream groups on campus, and creating an opportunity for students to learn about the diverse faiths that encompass and shape the world. In addition, the opportunity to examine religion and religious thought through academic study will benefit all students. Budgetary and Staff Implications: None, because the vast majority of courses in the minor are crosslisted with other departments, meaning that faculty are already teaching these courses and getting credit from their home departments. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 12

14 Library Resource Implications: Current library resources are sufficient. Space Implications: At present, no additional space is required. Unit (e.g., departmental approval date: February 7, 2013 College (educational policy committee, faculty) approval dates: LAS Educational Policy Committee: April 15, 2013 LAS Faculty: September 24, 2013 Faculty Contact Person: Kevin Schultz Proposed Effective Date: Fall 2014 Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 13

15 Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Courses New Courses RELS 100 Religion in Human Experience (selective for the minor) 3 hours. Introduction to basic questions about religion, focusing on the theological and philosophical ways in which humans have sought to understand faith, transcendence, and the nature of god(s).. RELS 101 Introduction to World Religions (selective for the minor) 3 hours. A historical survey of the origins and development of several of the world's largest religions, including but not limited to Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Revised Courses, Religious Studies RELS 320 Major Religious Thinkers (renumberd to RELS 292) 3 hours. An examination of one or more major/classical thinkers and their writings. May be repeated if topics vary. Prerequisite(s): One 100- or 200-level religious studies course. RELS 330 The Quran (renumbered to RELS 279) 3 hours. Introduction to the text, history of interpretation, and the significance of the Quran. Prerequisites: Junior standing or above; or consent of the instructor and one 200-level course in Islamic studies. Revised Courses, Other Departments AAST 120 African American Religious Traditions (renumbered to AAST 125; permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 hours. Introduction to the significance of religion and religious institutions in African American history. Examination of Christian and non-christian traditions, mainstream and sectarian. Same as RELS 125. Past, and US Society course. AAST 445 History of Islam in the African World (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 OR 4 hours. A comprehensive study of the history of Islam and its role among the people of African descent in sub-saharan Africa and the United States. Same as HIST 445 and RELS undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. Prerequisite(s): Consent of the instructor. AH 220 Buddhist Art and Architecture (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 hours. A chronologically and thematically organized survey of Buddhist art and architecture in Asia and beyond. Same as ASST 220 and RELS 220. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 14

16 ANTH 215 Anthropology of Religion (now selective for the minor and permanently cross-listed with Religious Studies) 3 hours. Exploration of varieties of religious experience, including magic and witchcraft, with emphasis on non-western religions and the role of religious institutions in social integration. Same as RELS 215. ANTH 271 American Indian Religion and Philosophy (permanently cross-listed with Religious Studies) 3 hours. Survey of American Indian beliefs about nature and the spirit world, and the rituals connected with those beliefs, including the changes that resulted from European contact. Same as RELS 271. Individual and Society, and US Society course. CL 208 Greek Mythology (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 hours. Intensive study of the gods and heroic sagas of the Greeks, through original sources in translation. All readings are in English. Prerequisite(s): CL 100 or CL 102 or CL 103 or the equivalent. Same as RELS 208. Individual and Society, and Past course. ENGL 115 Understanding the Bible as Literature (now selective for the minor) 3 hours. A broad overview of various literary genres in the Bible such as origin narrative, historical narrative, poetry, wisdom literature, prophetic/apocalyptic literature, parable, and epistle. Same as RELS 115. Creative Arts course. HIST 117 Understanding the Holocaust (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 hours. Examines the Holocaust of European Jewry as the result of antisemitic ideology and the development of modern German political forces; implementation of the Final Solution. Same as JST 117 and RELS 117. Individual and Society, and Past course. JST 101 Introduction to Judaism (permanent cross-list as RELS 121 to prevent duplication) 3 hours. Introduction to the Jewish religion as it has developed from its roots in the Hebrew Bible until today, emphasizing its central texts and concepts. Same as RELS 121. Individual and Society course. JST 102 Introduction to Jewish History (permanent cross-list as RELS 122) 3 hours. Overview of Jewish history from Biblical times until the present. Topics will range from second Temple Judea and the beginning of the diaspora through 21st-century Jewish life in America and Israel. Same as RELS 122. Individual and Society, and Past course. JST 123 Introduction to Yiddish Culture and Literature (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 hours. Yiddish culture in Europe and the U.S. in socio-historical context. Focus on the role of Yiddish in conceptions of secular, cultural, religious, national Jewish identities. Same as GER 123 and RELS 123. No graduation credit toward a major or minor program offered by the Department of Germanic Studies. Lectures, discussion, and readings in English. Creative Arts, and World Cultures course. JST 230 Topics in Jewish Thought (permanent cross-list as RELS 231) 3 hours. Survey of major topics in Jewish theology, philosophy, ethics and political thought. Same as RELS 231. Course information: May be repeated if topics vary. Recommended Background: JST 101 or the equivalent. JST 294 Topics in Jewish Studies (permanent cross-list as RELS hours. How Jews became a modern ethnic group, how their experiences compare with other ethnic groups, and how their experiences in modern times vary from nation to nation. Same as RELS 296. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 hours. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 15

17 JST 394 Topics in Jewish Studies (permanent cross-list as RELS 395) 3 hours. Selected topics in Jewish culture and history. Same as RELS 395. May be repeated to a maximum of 9 hours. Students may register in more than one section per term. Prerequisite(s): Consent of the instructor. JST 402 Jewish-Christian Relations before the Modern Era (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 OR 4 hours. Social and intellectual relationships between Jewish communities and medieval Christendom, with attention to Jewish understandings of diaspora and redemption; and the roles Jewish scholars played in the rise of Christian humanism. Same as RELS undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. Recommended background: JST 102 or JST 103. JST 420 Advanced Studies in Jewish Religion (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 OR 4 hours. In-depth study of a period or mode of Jewish religious development or textual production, or an examination of a religious tenet or practice across various historical periods. Same as RELS 420. Topics will vary.3 undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. May be repeated up to 1 time(s) if topics vary. Prerequisite(s): JST 101; and JST 230 or JST 242 or JST 254. JST 430 Advanced Studies in Jewish Thought (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 OR 4 hours. Advanced topics in Jewish theology, philosophy, ethics or political thought. Same as RELS undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. May be repeated if topics vary. Prerequisite(s): One 100-level and one 200-level course in Jewish Studies. JST 494 Topics in Jewish Studies (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 OR 4 hours. Selected topics in Jewish studies. Same as RELS undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 hours if topics vary. Prerequisite(s): JST 101 or JST 102 or consent of the instructor. PHIL 115 Death (permanent cross-list as RELS 155) 3 hours. Philosophical examination of our attitudes towards death. Our attitudes towards mortality and immortality; definitions of death; treating others as persons; our attitudes towards life, quality of life issues, suicide, rights of the dying. Same as RELS 155. Individual and Society course. PHIL 241 Philosophy of Religion (now selective for the minor and permanently cross-listed with Religious Studies) 3 hours. Philosophical inquiry into the grounds of faith and belief, the nature of religious and mystical experience, and the existence and nature of God. Same as RELS 241. Prerequisite(s): One course in philosophy or consent of the instructor. PHIL 422 Medieval Philosophy (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 TO 4 hours. Study of selected philosophers such as Augustine, Boethius, Averroes, Maimonides, Aquinas, William of Ockham, Buridan, Suarez. Same as RELS undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. Prerequisite(s): PHIL 220 or PHIL 221 or PHIL 420 or PHIL 421 or consent of the instructor. PHIL 441 Topics in Philosophy of Religion (permanent cross-list with Religious Studies) 3 TO 4 hours. Intensive study of one or more selected topics concerning the philosophical aspects of basic religious beliefs and concepts. Same as RELS undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. May be repeated up to 1 time(s) with approval. Approval to repeat course granted by the department. Prerequisite(s): One 200-level course in philosophy or consent of the instructor. Recommended background: PHIL 241. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 16

18 Department of African American Studies Endorsement Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 17

19 Department of Anthropology Endorsement Note from Office of Programs and Academic Assessment: from John Monaghan, Head of Anthropology does not reference ANTH 271: American Indian Religion and Philosophy. However, Professor Monaghan has approved of the cross-list in the UIC Course Request System. Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 18

20 Department of Art History Endorsement Department of Art History Endorsement Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 19

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22 Department of Classics Endorsement Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 21

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24 Department of English Endorsement Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 23

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27 Department of Germanic Studies Endorsement Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 26

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30 Department of History Endorsement Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 29

31 Jewish Studies Program Endorsement Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 30

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33 Department of Philosophy Endorsement Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 32

34 Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 33

35 Forwarded message From: Anthony Laden Date: Thu, May 9, 2013 at 6:35 AM Subject: Re: one last religious studies question... To: constance meinwald Cc: "Kevin M. Schultz" Hi everyone, looks good to me, though in the justification for Phil 115, there is a typo...faith where there should be faiths. And given that Georgette and Neal teach the courses in question most often, maybe we should run the justifications by them. Best, Tony On May 8, 2013, at 5:51 PM, constance meinwald <meinwald@uic.edu> wrote: Dear All, Fine with me (wasn't Georgette the contact person for this?) I'll assume I don't need to do anything unless I hear otherwise. -Connie On 8 May :15, Charlotte Jackson <char@uic.edu> wrote: Hi Kevin, I'm forwarding your request to Tony Laden (chair) and Connie Meinwald (DUS) to get their approval before I act on your request. I will get back to you when I get the go ahead on this. Best, Charlotte On 5/8/ :40 PM, Kevin M. Schultz wrote: Hi Charlotte, Thanks for the catch! See below. Let me know if you have any questions. All best, Kevin Forwarded message From: Kevin M. Schultz <schultzk@uic.edu> Date: Thu, May 2, 2013 at 11:10 AM Subject: one last religious studies question... To: char <char@uic.edu> Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 34

36 Hi Ms. Jackson, Thanks so much for your help with crosslisting (and updated) Phil 241 to get the minor in Religious Studies off the ground. We've received approval from the EPC! Of course, that now means a few more things to do. Can I ask for help one more time? We need to add as permanent Religious Studies crosslists the following courses: PHIL 115, Death (listed as RELS 155) PHIL 422, Medieval Philosophy PHIL 441, Topics in Philosophy of Religion In the CRS system, the time we'd like to go active is Spring In the section on "crosslisted courses" only one will have an alternate number (PHIL 115 listed as RELS 115), while all the others will retain their numbers. And for the justification, can we put: "Students in Religious Studies will be interested in learning about how different faith treat death and dying, and how the process of death provokes a call to the transcendence." And: "Students in Religious Studies will be interested in learning about how religion and faith animated Medieval Philosophy and how the religious schisms of the era shaped how people thought" And: "Students in Religious Studies will be interested in knowing about the philosophical questions and systems that undergird religion." Thanks so much for your help (if indeed you can help), and don't hesitate to be in touch with questions! All best, Kevin Reactivation and Revision of the Minor in Religious Studies Page 35