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.

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.

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.

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

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

Topics vary from year to year.

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.

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.

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.

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.