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Year Course ID Course
2026-2027 PSYC 416

Psychology & the Law

A consideration of human behaviour within the legal system, including issues related to giving testimony, jury decision-making, and defense pleas.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third-year standing
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2026-2027 PSYC 418

Memory & Attention

This course examines current models of the human memory system, as well as practical mnemonic aids and theoretical issues and models.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 105, 106, 201 plus 6 additional sem. hrs. of Psychology
2026-2027 PSYC 420

Adult Development & Aging

An introduction to the developmental tasks, issues, and experiences common to human development from young adulthood through old age. The theories of adult development and aging; the role of genetic and environmental factors in aging; the effects of aging on sensation and perception, learning and cognition, personality and adjustment; and the issues of death and bereavement are topics examined.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 215 and third-year standing
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2026-2027 PSYC 431

Introduction to Career Counselling & Development

A critical introduction to the theory and practice of career counselling. The course offers an overview of major factors affecting career development. Current trends and how to meet developing needs. The importance of effective career counselling in the lifelong development of the individual.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 331 and third-year standing
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2026-2027 PSYC 440

Psychology of Religion

An application of the tools of empirical psychology to the study of the development and function of religious experience. This course offers an analysis of the role of religious experience in the human personality. Specific religious experiences (e.g., conversion, prayer, glossolalia, miracles) are examined with a view to understanding their function in the normal individual.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third-year standing
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
Cross-listed: RELS 470
2026-2027 PSYC 471

Human Neuropsychology

An in-depth examination of the relationship between brain function and psychological processes such as spatial processing, language, and executive functioning. Behavioral and psychological consequences of neurological disorders will be the focus of inquiry.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 254, and third-year standing
2026-2027 PSYC 497

Senior Thesis

Under supervision of the departmental faculty, students conduct a careful review of the literature on a topic of their choice as well as an empirical study of some portion of the topic. The final written result is submitted in thesis form.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Minimum GPA 3.3; consent of the department chair
2026-2027 PSYC 498

Senior Thesis

Under supervision of the departmental faculty, students conduct a careful review of the literature on a topic of their choice as well as an empirical study of some portion of the topic. The final written result is submitted in thesis form.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Minimum GPA 3.3; consent of the department chair
2026-2027 PTH 507

Small Group Ministry

Examines biblical and theological foundations for small group ministry and analyzes the role of groups in spiritual formation within the local church. Explores principles of group dynamics, leadership development, and organizational strategy while evaluating models for cultivating healthy Christian community. Integrates theological reflection with practical planning to prepare students to design and lead accountable, missionally oriented small group ministries.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 PTH 509

Spiritual Formation III

Continues the Spiritual Formation sequence with particular attention to vocation, character, and servant leadership in Christian life and ministry. Students examine biblical and theological perspectives on calling, spiritual maturity, and leadership, while engaging practices that foster self-awareness, discernment, and sustainable habits for ministry. The course emphasizes the integration of personal formation, life in community, and ongoing participation in the church for faithful and enduring Christian service.

Course Credits: 1
2026-2027 PTH 510

Spiritual Formation

Explores biblical and theological foundations of spiritual formation and examines historical and contemporary understandings of Christian spirituality. Analyzes the processes of spiritual growth, the role of community in formation, and the integration of spiritual disciplines in personal and ministry contexts. Emphasizes critical reflection, theological coherence, and responsible leadership practices that foster mature Christian character and support the spiritual development of others.

Course Credits: 1
2026-2027 PTH 511

Spiritual Formation II

Continues the study and practice of spiritual formation with particular attention to the work of the Holy Spirit in personal growth, interpersonal relationships, and Christian community. Students examine themes of character, relational health, and spiritual maturity as they engage practices of daily devotion, theological reflection, and ministry participation. The course emphasizes growth in self-awareness, communication, and faithful relationships in the contexts of family, church, and society.

Course Credits: 1
2026-2027 PTH 518

Mission & Culture

Examines the relationship between Christian mission and cultural context by integrating theological, historical, and social-scientific perspectives. The course analyzes how cultures shape belief and practice and how the church engages diverse social, political, and religious environments in local and global settings. Students explore biblical and theological foundations of mission, historical patterns of cross-cultural witness, and contemporary challenges such as pluralism, secularization, migration, and globalization. Emphasis is placed on contextual analysis, cultural discernment, and the development of informed ministry practices responsive to complex cultural realities.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 PTH 550

Formation Group

Cultivates holistic Christian formation through guided communal practices within theological education and ministry preparation. Integrates reflection on Scripture, theology, and church history with sustained engagement in formative Christian practices, including prayer, worship, and disciplined attention to Scripture. Encourages reflective engagement with personal, vocational, cultural, and sociopolitical questions in light of Christian faith. Emphasizes relational formation through mutual accountability, shared discernment, encouragement, and service within a learning community. The course supports spiritual maturity, vocational clarity, and relational wisdom as integral dimensions of graduate theological formation.

Course Credits: 0
2026-2027 PTH 560

Christian Worship

Introduces the biblical, theological, and historical foundations of Christian worship and surveys major expressions of corporate worship across Christian traditions. Examines core elements of worship while exploring the relationship between worship and culture. Emphasizes theological understanding, historical awareness, and foundational competencies for thoughtful participation in and planning of corporate worship within diverse congregational settings.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 PTH 600

Pastoral Theology & Practice

Examines the theological foundations and core practices of pastoral ministry within the life of the church. Explores pastoral identity, spiritual care, worship leadership, and key ministerial responsibilities, including prayer, preaching, administration of the sacraments, and congregational shepherding. Integrates pastoral theology with practical engagement in ministry practices, attending to biblical, historical, and cultural dimensions. Emphasizes the formation of pastoral judgment and competence for faithful leadership in contemporary ecclesial contexts.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 PTH 603

Introduction to Preaching

Examines the theological foundations and methodological practices of biblical preaching with emphasis on genre-sensitive preaching, sermon development, and effective delivery. Students integrate biblical and theological reflection, contextual awareness, and homiletical skills to develop sermons. The course includes in-class sermon presentations with structured peer and instructor evaluation to support growth in preaching competence.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): BIB 505
2026-2027 PTH 605

Pastoral Counselling

Examines pastoral counseling as an integral dimension of pastoral care and congregational shepherding. The course develops competencies in empathic listening, reflection, and discernment while addressing key pastoral counseling concerns such as crisis intervention, suicide prevention, premarital counseling, family systems dynamics, ethical practice, and appropriate referral. Students engage common mental health challenges encountered in ministry contexts, including depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and chronic mental illness. Emphasis is placed on experiential skill development and theological reflection on personal formation, relational systems, and emotional health within the life of the church.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 PTH 613

Evangelism & Faith Formation

Examines biblical, theological, and practical foundations for evangelism, discipleship, and spiritual formation in contemporary ministry contexts. The course emphasizes personal spiritual formation and disciple-making. Students engage models of evangelism, pathways of discipleship, and practices that foster Christian maturity and mission within diverse and pluralistic settings. Attention is given to forming leaders who embody faithful presence, cultivate spiritual habits, and equip others to follow Jesus within local church and ministry contexts.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 PTH 640

Topics: Worship

Examines focused themes in Christian worship through sustained theological, historical, and contextual study. Investigates particular movements, practices, or theological questions within diverse Christian traditions and cultural settings. Emphasizes critical evaluation, constructive theological reflection, and pastoral application in relation to contemporary ecclesial challenges. Specific topics vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 PTH 650

Topics: Preaching

Examines advanced dimensions of Christian preaching through sustained theological, biblical, and contextual engagement. Develops deeper understanding of proclamation by integrating biblical interpretation, theological reflection, and pastoral responsibility within diverse ministry contexts. Emphasizes critical analysis, contextual discernment, and growth in homiletical judgment and practice. Specific areas of focus may vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): PTH 603, or permission of instructor.
2026-2027 PTH 696

Creative Bible Teaching

Examines strategies for proclaiming and applying the biblical message within particular ministry and cultural contexts. Students assess their own ministry settings and homiletical traditions, analyze contextual dynamics that shape preaching, and develop biblically faithful sermons that address specific congregational and cultural realities. Attention is given to theological reflection, contextualization, and the formulation of sermon applications that faithfully interpret Scripture while engaging contemporary audiences. Students prepare and deliver sermons demonstrating contextual awareness and pastoral sensitivity.

Course Credits: 2
2026-2027 PTH 820

Topics: Advanced Pastoral Ministry

Advanced study of selected issues in pastoral ministry. Topics may include pastoral leadership, congregational health, ministry formation, spiritual care, conflict engagement, ecclesial identity, or contextual ministry practice. Emphasis is placed on theological reflection, critical analysis, and integrative ministry leadership. Topics vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Course Credits:
Prerequisite(s): PTH 600, or instructor permission.
2026-2027 PTH 850

Topics: Advanced Homiletics

Advanced study of homiletical theory and practice. This course explores specialized approaches to preaching, including theological method, rhetorical strategy, cultural engagement, and genre-specific proclamation. Students refine their theological depth, exegetical integration, and pastoral voice in preaching for diverse ministry contexts. Emphases vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Course Credits:
Prerequisite(s): PTH 603, or instructor permission.
2026-2027 PTH 860

Topics: Advanced Worship

Advanced theological and interdisciplinary research in Christian worship with sustained attention to liturgical theology, ecclesiology, culture, and formation. Examines primary sources, contemporary scholarship, and diverse global practices. Specific themes may vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Course Credits:
Prerequisite(s): PTH 600, or instructor permission.
2026-2027 RELS 106

Sacred Scriptures

An introduction to the major writings of Sacred Scripture, with particular attention given to the narrative of salvation, and to the major themes and emphases of the individual texts. Emphasis is placed on a distinctively Catholic approach to reading scripture and its role in Christian belief and practice.

Course Credits: 3
NB: Course taught at Catholic Pacific College, an approved TWU learning centre.
2026-2027 RELS 107

Doctrine & Disciplines

An engagement with the central doctrines and disciplines of Christianity as articulated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Students will consider an in-depth exposition of the traditional teachings of the Church as handed down in the Nicene Creed, and how these core beliefs shape the central practices of Christian life such as the sacraments, charitable living, and prayer.

Course Credits: 3
NB: Course taught at Catholic Pacific College, an approved TWU learning centre.
2026-2027 RELS 110

Introduction to Christianity

Who is Jesus Christ? What is the Bible? What does Christianity believe and how is it relevant to my life today? These are the broad, overarching questions students will investigate in this course. Students will be able to explain how the centrality of the Gospel of Christ relates to how Christians have understood the Bible and Christian theology. This course provides foundational concepts that students will be able to apply to the more complex issues encountered in RELS 111 and RELS 112.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 111

The Old Testament: God, Humanity, the World

Religion asks foundational questions about human existence and identity. Who am I? What can I know about God, and does God’s existence give my life greater meaning and purpose? How should I regard my neighbor and the stranger? What are my responsibilities in this world? This course addresses these and other questions through the lens of the Old Testament. Students will develop skills of interpretation in order to gain insight into its literature, history, and beliefs. Students will learn to interpret the Old Testament contextually and respectfully, articulating the relevance of its theology, ethics, and spirituality for the twenty-first century.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 112

The New Testament: God, Humanity, the World

Religion asks foundational questions about human existence and identity. Who am I? What can I know about God, and does God’s existence give my life greater meaning and purpose? Who is Jesus and how has his death and resurrection redefined conceptions of human identity? This course addresses these and other questions through the lens of the New Testament. Students will develop skills of interpretation in order to gain insight into its literature, history, and beliefs. Students will learn to interpret the New Testament contextually and respectfully, articulating the relevance of its theology, ethics, and spirituality for the twenty-first century.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 160

Introduction to Theology

What do Christians believe about God and what are their grounds for holding these beliefs? Introduction to Christian theology places Christian theology in the broader context of religion and invites students to consider their own beliefs in the context of the broader Christian theological tradition and to explore their relationship to scripture, tradition, experience, and reason. Students are encouraged to consider the importance and relevance of Christian theology in academic and ecclesial contexts with special attention to spiritual formation.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 111
2026-2027 RELS 222

Israelite Religion

A study of the religious forms and institutions of the Hebrew people during the Old Testament period, including a consideration of the major theological motifs that pervade the Hebrew religion.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 112
2026-2027 RELS 224

New Testament Theology

A study of the New Testament writings in their historical setting and chronological sequence with the goal of acquiring knowledge of their theological unity and diversity.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 112
2026-2027 RELS 225

Revelation & Interpretation

An introduction to biblical hermeneutics focusing upon the significance of divine revelation, primarily as represented in the sacred scriptures of the New Covenant. Students will be exposed to general principles of textual interpretation, perspectives from contemporary theological hermeneutics, and several of the historical debates in the reception of biblical texts, particularly surrounding the ecumenical councils of the first eight centuries. Students will also be encouraged to develop a critical awareness of their presuppositions as readers, with an aim of engaging constructively in debates which continue to divide Christians.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 106 or 110
NB: Course taught at Catholic Pacific College, an approved TWU learning centre.
2026-2027 RELS 235

Elementary New Testament Greek

This course comprises an introduction to Hellenistic (Koiné) Greek that is designed to prepare the student for reading the Greek New Testament with linguistic aptitude, as well as developing a cultural intelligence pertaining to the ancient people and history that gave rise to the biblical text. Students will explore and investigate linguistic theories and ideas related to the script, grammar, syntax, and vocabulary of the Greek New Testament, as well as evaluate and compare differences and similarities that exist between the Ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish cultures and our own contemporary culture.

Course Credits: 3
Cross-listed: GREE 235
2026-2027 RELS 240

Old Testament Book Study

An exegetical study of a selected Old Testament book.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 111
2026-2027 RELS 245

Elementary Biblical Hebrew

An introduction to the grammar and vocabulary of biblical Hebrew, designed to prepare the student for serious study of the Hebrew Bible as an item of both ancient and ongoing cultural, historical, and theological significance.

Course Credits: 3
Cross-listed: HEBR 245
2026-2027 RELS 250

New Testament Book Study

An exegetical study of a selected New Testament book.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 112
2026-2027 RELS 260

Foundations for Christian Theology

An exploration of the tasks and tools of Christian theology. Through engagement with key issues, students will interact with foundational questions, sources, and content of the Christian theological tradition with an aim of understanding its significance for Christian faith and life in the world today.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 110
2026-2027 RELS 261

Holy Spirit, Church & Last Things

Every area of human life requires a solid theological foundation, consisting of both an informed understanding of Christian doctrine and the ability to view life through the lens of Christian commitment. By exploring three major foci of systematic theology—the doctrines of the Holy Spirit (pneumatology), the church (ecclesiology), and last things (eschatology)—in the light of Scripture, the theological heritage of the Church, and the contemporary context, this course seeks to develop the student’s expertise as a theologically informed Christian for the sake of their life and service to God.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 111 or 112; RELS 160
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2026-2027 RELS 271

Encountering Western Religions

An analytical and critical study of the phenomena, the conceptual patterns, and the sacred texts of some of the major Western religions. Each religion is studied as a total perspective for life, which is embodied in interpersonal and communal life, in cult, and in ideology. This course provides a general introduction to the study of world religions as well as an historical and structural survey of Judaism, Islam, Christianity and new religions in the West. The subject matter is approached from an emic anthropological standpoint—that is, the history, belief and practice of each religious group will be examined in detail, as if the student was living within that religious context.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 272

Encountering Eastern Religions

An analytical and critical study of the phenomena, the conceptual patterns, and the sacred texts of some of the major Eastern religions. Each religion is studied as a total perspective for life, which is embodied in interpersonal and communal life, in cult, and in ideology. This course provides a general introduction to the study of world religions as well as an historical and structural survey of Animism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Sikhism. The subject matter is approached from an emic anthropological standpoint—that is, the history, belief and practice of each religious group will be examined in detail, as if the student was living within that religious context.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 275

Vatican I to Today

A critical survey of the teachings of Vatican I, Catholic social thought, Vatican II, Humanae Vitae, and recent papal encyclicals. This course evaluates the Catholic Church’s engagement with late modern global society and considers the challenges posed to the Church’s ongoing relevance in diverse social contexts.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 105 or 107 or 110
2026-2027 RELS 285

Global Christianity

This course introduces basic concepts in missiology. Foundational notions from Old Testament and New Testament theology of missions are explored. As well, this course considers the rise and development of the missionary movement from apostolic times to the present. Issues arising from applied anthropology as it relates to cross-cultural communication are also developed. Special emphasis is given to discussion of important trends and select strategies in contemporary world mission.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 300

Principles of Biblical Interpretation

A study of the principles of biblical interpretation used in both the Jewish and Christian traditions, including the application of these methods to the major literary genres of the Bible.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 111 or 112
2026-2027 RELS 311

History of Ancient Israel

A study of the various eras of the history of the Hebrew people in the Old Testament period, including a survey of attempted historical reconstructions. Attention is given to such features as pre-history, nationalism, government, and social institutions.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 111
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2026-2027 RELS 320

Dead Sea Scrolls

A survey of the literary, social, cultural, political, and religious contexts of the Dead Sea Scrolls (DSS) and their role in recovering the historical development of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and early Jewish and Christian identities in antiquity.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 111 or 112
NB: Not offered every year. See department chair.
2026-2027 RELS 326

Gender & the Bible: Text, Tradition & Interpretation

Focuses on issues related to gender (including such topics as the roles and relationships of female and male characters in the Bible) within the contexts of the ancient Near East, Second Temple Judaism, the Greco-Roman world, the Jesus movement and the early Church. Also provides opportunity for the study and critique of the transmission and interpretation of these traditions within the early, medieval, Reformation, and contemporary eras.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RELS 111 or 112
2026-2027 RELS 329

Elementary New Testament Greek

A continuing study of Koine Greek that is designed to prepare the student for reading the Greek New Testament.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): GREE/RELS 235
Cross-listed: GREE 329
2026-2027 RELS 331

Readings in the Greek New Testament

A reading of selected texts from the New Testament, including a study of Greek syntax and an introduction to exegetical methodology. Students are also introduced to the reading of ancient manuscript.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): GREE/RELS 235, 329
Cross-listed: GREE 331