Global Ministries University

JOINT DOCTOR OF WORLD RELIGIONS AND PH.D.

DOCTOR OF WORLD RELIGIONS

MASTER OF THEOLOGY IN GLOBAL SPIRITUALITY

GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN WORLD RELIGIONS


Courses related to World Religions:

TH504 Introduction to Buddhism This course provides basic information on the core beliefs, values, practices, and philosophy of the main Buddhist traditions: Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana (Tibetan Buddhism). Historical and Cultural contexts are covered throughout, including modern Buddhism and the transmission of Buddhism to the West.

TH585 Globalization and the Meaning of Islam This course will take theoretical and practical journeys into the Muslim world and local communities. On the theoretical level, we will address the struggle within Islam. We will also look into issues related to the assumed Clash of civilizations. This course will also discuss the possibility of a theoretical framework for better alternatives to the “us versus them” paradigm. On the practical level, the course will occasionally invite guest speakers to address relevant issues and will also try to visit some institutions within the local Muslim community with the hope of initiating a constructive dialogue on issues of shared concerns.

TH515 Comparative Religion Introductory survey of world religions using a comparative model of exploration. The focus will be on the nature of religious experience and the forms and expressions it takes in diverse cultures and diverse parts of the globe. One of the main purposes of the course is to acquaint students with religious pluralism and encourage greater understanding and toleration for a variety of religious or non-religious beliefs.

TH577 Religious Traditions of the World Beginning with stories from the scriptures of the religions, we look at the various dimensions of religion as part of the total human experience -- past and present, narrative, conceptual, ritual, practical, emotional, and social. 

TH576 Interreligious Dialogue This course will be conducted primarily from a Catholic Christian perspective sensitive to the breakthroughs of Vatican II in understanding and dialoguing with other world religions. It will begin with a close reading of the assigned text, "Steps toward Vatican III” and "Nostra Aetate."