Theology Courses

THO100 — Christian Theology (3)

A survey of the basic Christian doctrines, as they are understood by the central Christian traditions. Includes an introductory examination of the doctrine of God, Christology, humanity, sin, salvation, the church, and last things. It is the basic theology course and is intended to provide a theological foundation for other disciplines.

THO200 — History of Christian Theology (3)

Surveys some of the major traditions, movements and debates in the history of Christian theology. One of the goals of the course is to identify the main periods and traditions of Christian theology, from the New Testament period to the present day. Another goal of the course is to trace the history of some of the major theological debates. Prerequisite: THO100 or permission of instructor.

THO280 — Christian Apologetics (3)

A discussion of some of the major issues that divide Christian understanding from that of a secular society or other religious groups. Some of the contemporary issues raised in the public forum will be addressed.

THO300 — Salvation & Sanctification (3)

Examines the whole scope of salvation, as it is accomplished by Christ and is appropriated by the believer. The goal of the course is to provide a historical and theological foundation for the student’s personal understanding of the via salutis (way of salvation). Prerequisite: THO200.

THO330 — Specialized Studies in Theology (3)

Specialized studies are usually led by visiting professors in areas of their expertise. Specific course titles vary with each offering as the nature of the studies indicates.

THO350 — Issues in Christian Theology (3)

Focuses in greater depth on some of the major theological issues that define one Christian tradition from another, or have caused major schisms or differences between various Christian traditions. Will look at a number of theological issues including the doctrine of the church, sacramental theology, theological anthropology and eschatology. Another issue dealt with here which has not caused a major division among Christian traditions, but which is emerging as an urgent theological issue is the doctrine of creation. Prerequisite: THO200.

THO360 — Father, Son & Holy Spirit (3)

Treats crucial issues in the development of the doctrine of God and of Christology. One major focus of this course is on the Trinitarian and Christological debates up to the 6th century. Another focus of this course is on the critical questions that have been raised in the modern period, for Christology and Trinitarian theology. Prerequisite: THO200.

THO365 — Readings in Christian Theology (3)

A seminar course examining selected readings on a specific topic as selected by the instructor. Prerequisite: THO200.

THO380 — Martin Luther & the Lutheran Heritage (3)

An examination of the life and theology of Martin Luther and of the distinctive themes of the Lutheran confessional writings. Prerequisite: THO200.

THO385 — John Wesley & the Wesleyan Heritage (3)

Examines the main features of John Wesley’s theology, as it is articulated in his sermons and major theological essays. This course notices how Wesley’s approach to theology compares to the major Christian traditions, and how his theology compares to the theology of churches in the Wesleyan heritage. Prerequisite: THO200.

THO386 — Contemporary Theology (3)

A study of theological developments in Christian theology from the early 1800s to the current day. Focus will be placed upon the contributions of specific theologians and major movements as well as the development of seminal ideas that have shaped the theological diversity of contemporary Christianity. Prerequisite: THO200.

THO400 — Senior Theology Seminar (3)

An exploration of a significant theme in theology set by the professor in consultation with interested students who are taking the class. Papers will be presented by students on topics of their interest surrounding the theme. The class will meet at selected times during the semester and at the end of the semester to hear papers presented. Prerequisites: 6 credits of THOxxx or consent of the instructor.

THO427 to 429 — Guided Studies in Theology (1 – 3)

An in–depth study of a topic of significance to the student developed under faculty policy on guided studies. Available only to senior students. Prerequisite: THO100.

THO450 — Research in Theology (4)

For Theology majors who have completed 15 hours of credit in the division. A study, guided by faculty regulations, including reading, in primary and secondary sources, a literature review, and a summative written project. Prerequisites: THO200 and 3 other credits of THOxxx.