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Year Course ID Course
2026-2027 RELS 640

Advanced Greek Readings

This course exposes students to a variety of Greek texts that are important for understanding the language and literature of the Greek New Testament. These texts include the Septuagint, papyri, inscriptions, and various extra-biblical writings such as the apocryphal gospels. Students are led to appreciate the literary conventions and genres of the Greco-Roman world.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 641

Isaiah

This course reviews the historical prophet Isaiah and the political circumstances in which he lived. It also considers the subsequent formation of the Book of Isaiah, including its various components and perspectives, its unified message and various features of inner-interpretation.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 642

Romans

This course explores the nature of Paul's argument in his letter to the Roman Christians, with special emphasis on the apostle's scriptural defence of the Christian gospel and his understanding of the relationship of Gentiles to Israel.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 643

Psalms

This course examines the Psalms as the primary window into Israel's worship, especially during the pre-exilic period. Features of both corporate and individual faith are brought to light.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 644

John

This course reviews the various questions of sources, relationship to the Synoptic Gospels, Christology, use of the Old Testament, religious background, and early Jewish/Christian polemic.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 645

Wisdom Literature

This course offers an analysis of the biblical and intertestamental wisdom literature with a special emphasis on the Book of Ecclesiastes, i.e. Qohelet.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Knowledge of Hebrew (RELS 245 and 336)
2026-2027 RELS 647

The Dead Sea Scrolls

This course surveys the Dead Sea Scrolls and the light they shed on Second Temple Judaism and early Christianity. Themes of major sectarian scrolls are studied; recently published scrolls and fragments are evaluated.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 648

Advanced Greek Studies

This course introduces students to various technical features involved in the study of New Testament Greek. These studies include treatment of aspects of advanced Greek grammar, textual criticism, the influence of the Septuagint on the New Testament, the literary and linguistic influence of literary Greek on the New Testament, and the relevance of Greek study for New Testament exegesis.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 649

Rabbinic Literature

This course introduces the student to the most important rabbinic writings (e.g., Mishnah, Talmud, and the Midrashim). Sessions consist of readings and introductory lectures concerned with the origin and editing of this literature, its purposes, and the types of scriptural and logical arguments employed. Selected writings are studied in greater depth; depending on the makeup of the class, some passages are read in Hebrew and others in English.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 650

Introduction to Biblical Archaeology

This course is scheduled as the Summer session study tour of Israel (cf. RELS 350). It offers students the opportunity to study important topographical and archaeological sites, including digs in progress, and to view several important finds in the Israel National Museum.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 652

Syriac

The course offers students an introduction to Syriac. Although the emphasis falls on the Peshitta, students are exposed to other Syriac writings.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): A minimum of 6 sem. hrs. of Hebrew and may, at the instructor's discretion, require a minimum of 3 to 6 sem. hrs. of Aramaic
2026-2027 RELS 655

Introduction to Aramaic

This course, which presupposes a minimum of 6 sem. hrs. of Biblical Hebrew, offers students an introduction to Biblical, Qumranic, and Targumic Aramaic.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 656

Readings in Aramaic

This course, which presupposes RELS 655, guides students through selected readings in Biblical, Qumranic, and Targumic Aramaic.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 658

Mishnaic & Qumranic Hebrew

This course, which presupposes a minimum of 6 sem. hrs. of Hebrew, offers students an introduction to Mishnaic and Qumranic Hebrew and guides students through selected readings.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 660

Biblical Interpretation in the Sixteenth Century

This course introduces students to the principles and practice of Biblical interpretation during the Reformation period. Of special interest are the commentaries and scriptural arguments in support of important doctrines.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 661

History of Christian Doctrine

An exploration of the interactions between Christian thought, practice, and culture. While not exhaustive in nature, the course seeks to familiarize students with major doctrines and thinkers in the history of Christian thought through an engagement with primary and secondary source material.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 662

Early & Medieval Christian Thought

An examination of the emergence and development of Christian thought from the Apostolic Fathers through to St. Thomas Aquinas. Building on the foundation laid by RELS 661 (History of Christian Doctrine), this course invites students into a deeper understanding of the complexities of early and medieval Christian thought through close readings of primary source material from significant individuals and councils

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 663

Reformation Thought

An examination of the emergence and development of Christian thought of the Magisterial and Anabaptist wings of 16th century Reformation. This course invites students into a deeper understanding of the complexities of Reformation thought through close readings of primary source material from significant individuals, movements and councils

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 664

Modern Christian Thought

An examination of the emergence and development of Christian thought of the nineteenth, twentieth, & twenty-first centuries. This course invites students into a deeper understanding of the complexities of modern Christian thought through close readings of primary source material from significant theologies and theologians of the period with a view to how they influence Christianity today. The approach is both inter-confessional and international in scope and seeks to allow students to grapple with important theological issues in local, national, and global contexts.

Course Credits: 3
RELS 611, 622, 661
2026-2027 RELS 670

Pre-Nicene Christianity

A detailed examination of the background and development of Christian thought and life in the period spanning the Apostolic Fathers through to the Council of Nicaea (325). The course analyzes the complex formulation of Pre-Nicene Christianity through the writings of some of its most influential thinkers, leaders, and movements (both orthodox and heretical) with an eye toward identifying major developments in early Christian theology and practice. An attempt is also made to understand the variety of Christianities which contended for dominance as the church strove to define itself and to establish its place in the world.

Course Credits: 3
Cross-listed: HIST 670
2026-2027 RELS 671

Development of Christian Doctrine

Does Christian doctrine necessarily develop or is it delivered once and for all in the Bible? This question forms the main concern of this course as it exposes students to the idea of doctrinal development in Christian theology. Through a selection of ideas, persons, issues, and institutions that have contributed to the idea of doctrinal development it encourages students to grapple with the inevitable change of history as it relates to Christian doctrine.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 675

Theology & Method

An examination of the methodological approaches to the study of theology. Methods such as historical/systematic/dogmatic theology, dialectical theology, constructive theology, analytical theology, postmodern/deconstructive theology and existential theology will be covered in terms of the historical roots, main proponents and fundamental principles of each of these methods.

Course Credits: 3
RELS 611, 622, 661
2026-2027 RELS 677

Theologies of Liberation

Since the 1960’s Christian theology has undergone a sea change in Western thought, having shifted from theoretical concerns of dogma to matters of praxis and social justice. At the forefront of these changes there arose a theological movement broadly known as “Liberation Theology.” Though the basic form of this movement was born in the socially repressed regions of Latin America, under the leadership of Catholic theologians like Gustavo Gutierrez, the main tenets of its approach to theology have been adopted and adapted by many other groups who feel a kinship with the oppressed peoples of the developing world. This course explores the main lines of this approach to theology through a sampling and analysis of offerings from these various groups, including, Latin American theology, Black theology, Feminist/Womanist theology, and Gay/LGBTQ theologies.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 680

Additional Topics

Topics vary from year to year.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RELS 681

Special Topics in Christian Thought

An in-depth examination of special topics or issues in Christian Thought.

Course Credits: 3
RELS 611, 622, 661
2026-2027 RELS 682

Special Topics in Christian Thought

An in-depth examination of special topics or issues in Christian Thought.

Course Credits: 3
RELS 611, 622, 661
2026-2027 RELS 690

Research Design

Research Design introduces students to the principles of topic selection and thesis development. Special instructions regarding either Old Testament or New Testament thesis development are provided.

Course Credits: 1
2026-2027 RELS 691

Thesis I

In Thesis I, which presupposes RELS 690, the student, in frequent consultation with his/her advisor, selects a thesis topic and begins research. The completion of an annotated bibliography, a summary of relevant scholarly views, and original translation(s) of relevant primary texts are required.

Course Credits: 4
2026-2027 RELS 692

Thesis II

In Thesis II, which presupposes RELS 691, students work toward the completion of their thesis. Minimally, a first draft should be completed. No grade is assigned for RELS 692 until the thesis is finished, accepted, and successfully defended. If the thesis is not completed and defended in the spring semester or the following summer, the student is to continue in the program by registering for RELS 695.

Course Credits: 4
2026-2027 RELS 695

Continuous Registration

Continuous Registration maintains the student’s enrolment in the program and is taken only when all required courses are completed and only as a continuation of the incomplete RELS 692. Although no credit is given for RELS 695 there is a fee charged for each semester, including the summer semester, of Continuous Registration.

Course Credits: 0
2026-2027 RES 502

Research Strategies

Cultivates graduate-level research and academic writing skills through guided practice in research design, strategic resource discovery, evaluation of scholarly sources, and the preparation and integration of research materials into academic writing projects.

Course Credits: 1
2026-2027 RES 520

Interpretation & Ministry Tools

Develops practical skills in biblical interpretation using English-language exegetical tools. This course introduces lexicons, commentaries, concordances, and digital research platforms and trains students to evaluate and apply these resources responsibly in ministry contexts. Equips students to analyze biblical texts, compare interpretive options, and integrate scholarly insights into clear ministry communication without requiring prior study of biblical languages.

Course Credits: 1
NB: Students will need access to the software used for instruction.
2026-2027 RUSS 101

Introduction to Russian

An introduction to the Russian language and culture. Basic skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking are taught, as well as various aspects of life and culture in countries where Russian is spoken.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 RUSS 102

Introduction to Russian

An introduction to the Russian language and culture. Basic skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking are taught, as well as various aspects of life and culture in countries where Russian is spoken.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RUSS 101
2026-2027 RUSS 201

Intermediate Russian I

This course cover the fundamentals of Russian language and grammar at an intermediate level. Special emphasis is placed on the development of oral communication skills, as well as translation and interpretation. Courses also include a survey of several prominent Russian authors and their works.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RUSS 102
NB: Currently offered as a directed study.
2026-2027 RUSS 202

Intermediate Russian II

This course cover the fundamentals of Russian language and grammar at an intermediate level. Special emphasis is placed on the development of oral communication skills, as well as translation and interpretation. Courses also include a survey of several prominent Russian authors and their works.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): RUSS 201
NB: Currently offered as a directed study.
2026-2027 SAMC 111

Critical Issues in the Arts

This foundational interdisciplinary course introduces the arts as a way of knowing, especially through some of the complex issues in the arts, such as: arts and interpretation, arts and technology, arts and justice, arts and gender, and arts and faith. Students will explore these issues through the engagement of representative works of both artists and scholars from varying viewpoints and historical periods. Students will be expected to participate fully in individual and collaborative research projects applying both developing skills and critical evaluation. The format of the course includes lectures supplemented by assigned readings for discussion and debate. The course will be delivered by an interdisciplinary teaching team. Students attend weekly lectures, and participate in one of three discussion groups.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 SAMC 112

Interdisciplinary History of Western Arts

A foundational interdisciplinary introduction to key historical developments in Western artistic practice and concepts from ancient times to present. Students critically engage artistic materials (paintings, music, theatrical scripts, etc) and writings of the various style periods, developing their ability to meaningfully experience, interpret, and articulate different approaches to the arts in relation to the changing ideas of Western culture. Students are encouraged to think critically, charitably, and divergently, exploring and evaluating how the arts were understood and written about in different periods, and investigating the relationship of past artistic ideas to contemporary ideas and practices. The format of the course includes lectures, readings, discussion, and individual investigative assignments and research projects. The course is delivered by an interdisciplinary teaching team. Students attend weekly lectures, and participate in one of four discussion groups.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 SAMC 301

Arts Entrepreneurship

This interdisciplinary course is designed for early and mid-career artists interested in developing practical skills for effective and influential arts entrepreneurship. Students will expand their leadership, collaboration, and business skills by learning from industry professionals and exploring various topics such as project management, arts fundraising and grant writing, financial management, and ethical arts practices.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third-year standing
NB: Preference will be given to students in a SAMC program.
2026-2027 SAMC 350

Professional Practices

An overview of professional practices in art and design, with a focus on developing the practical skills and materials necessary for sustainable and healthy art and design careers. Students will engage in professional writing, portfolio development, networking, and career planning.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third-year standing or higher
Cross-listed: ART 370
2026-2027 SAMC 351

Arts, Media & Culture Field Placement

Designed for any student seeking arts leadership skills through experience-based learning. Students work with systems and strategies applying to self promotion and production, interdisciplinary and collaborative work, and arts organizations. Working under the direction of fine arts faculty, students focus on utilizing resources for development and implementation of special projects.

Course Credits: 1
Prerequisite(s): SAMC 110 or equivalent and upper-level standing
NB: Pass/Fail course
2026-2027 SAMC 352

Arts, Media & Culture Field Placement

Designed for any student seeking arts leadership skills through experience-based learning. Students work with systems and strategies applying to self promotion and production, interdisciplinary and collaborative work, and arts organizations. Working under the direction of fine arts faculty, students focus on utilizing resources for development and implementation of special projects.

Course Credits: 2
Prerequisite(s): SAMC 110 or equivalent and upper-level standing
NB: Pass/Fail course
2026-2027 SAMC 353

Arts, Media & Culture Field Placement

Designed for any student seeking arts leadership skills through experience-based learning. Students work with systems and strategies applying to self promotion and production, interdisciplinary and collaborative work, and arts organizations. Working under the direction of fine arts faculty, students focus on utilizing resources for development and implementation of special projects.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): SAMC 110 or equivalent and upper-level standing
NB: Pass/Fail course
2026-2027 SAMC 370

Aesthetics

This course doesn't merely explore different questions about the nature, value, and meaning of beauty, artworks, and aesthetic experience; its primary goal is to assist students in developing lifestyles that embody the values, pleasures, and risks of moving through God's creation with deep aesthetic attention coupled to an expansive imagination

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third- or fourth-year standing or 6 sem. hrs. of PHIL or instructor's consent
NB: Not offered every year. See Department of Philosophy chair.
Cross-listed: PHIL 370
2026-2027 SAMC 420

Arts, Media & Culture Travel Study

This multi-day study abroad trip gives students an immersive experience in culture and the fine arts. Students engage in experiential and embodied knowing by visiting galleries, performances, and cultural landmarks. Lectures and readings complement these experiences, helping students to deepen their biblically-informed understanding of the role of fine arts in society.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Completion
NB: Summer travel study course. This course is limited to students wishing to take this course for credit. No prior courses in art, theatre, or music are necessary.
2026-2027 SAMC 470

Applied Creative Studio

A professionally-oriented studio course where students work independently and/or collaboratively on creative projects for real clients. The work produced will vary broadly depending on the needs of the clients and skills of the students involved. Students will be responsible for managing project tasks and deadlines while cultivating positive client relationships under the guidance of the course instructor. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to create work exploring the boundaries of contemporary professional and critical practices.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Minimum third-year standing
Cross-listed: ART 470
2026-2027 SAMC 480

Christianity & the Arts

A senior seminar course designed for students in arts programs and anyone interested in the relationship between Christianity and the arts. The views of historical theoreticians and contemporary Christian thinkers about the topic will be examined. Students will develop their own perspectives on the role of the arts in faith and culture, and explore how their callings as Christians and artists can be transformative in contemporary culture.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third-year standing in a SAMC degree program; others by instructor's consent
2026-2027 SKLS 001

Study Skills

A non-credit course in study skills to assist students in study habits, comprehension, and improved academic achievement. Topics addressed in the Study Skills class are: time management; note-taking; effective reading; memory techniques; test taking and stress; procrastination and goal setting; critical thinking; research & paper writing, and vocational direction. Study Skills 001 is open to all students and is offered in the fall and spring semesters in 10 one- hour sessions over 5 weeks starting Add/Drop week. This course is required for students on Academic Probation or Academic Accountability as per University policy.

Course Credits: 0
2026-2027 SKLS 003

Academic Coaching

A non-credit course that provides organizational assistance and educational coaching designed specifically to help students improve their academic performance based on their specific needs. General topics covered in the academic coaching program are academic planning, organization and time management, exam preparation, research & writing, and procrastination. Academic Coaching is open to any student and is offered in the fall and spring. The coaching sessions occur weekly in 30 minute, one-on-one coaching sessions. This course is required for students on Academic Accountability as per university policy.

Course Credits: 0
2026-2027 SKLS 500

Graduate Scholarly Communication

This course is an introduction to graduate-level scholarly communication, with a focus on academic expectations for success at the graduate level. It provides an overview of academic honesty practices, essay formats and documentation, essay organization, academic tone, scholarly identity, and genre conventions.  

Course Credits: 0