Designed specifically for the adult student, this course is an examination of critical Christian doctrines and theological concepts that ground the Catholic, Franciscan, and liberal arts identity of Viterbo University. This course will explore the life of Francis of Assisi as a unique way of considering how theology influences the Christian worldview. May not also take RLST-160 or 342. This course is resticted to students in bachelor completion programs.

With the consent of chairperson and in consulation with a faculty member in the department, a student may engage in independent study in any of the areas approved by the instructor. Goals and objectives, and courses of study are to be set up before the student finalizes reqistration. Refer to the academic policy section for independent study policy. An Independent Study Contract is required. May be repeated for credit.

Non-classroom experience in the field of ministry, non-profit, or other related areas. Credit for experience must be sought prior to occurence. Placements are generally part-time and off campus. Course includes theological preparation and reflection on the experience. Areas of experience include children, youth, adults, aged, sick, dying, needy, etc. Prerequisite: six RLST credits. Restricted to students with freshman or sophomore standing. Permission of advisor or internship coordinator required. Graded CR/NC.

Courses on topics of interest to religious studies students offered on the basis of need, interest, or timeliness. Restricted to students with freshman or sophomore standing. May be repeated for credit. For specific section description, click to the Section Details in VitNet.

This course is designed for the traditional undergraduate student. Students will participate in a pilgrimage/immersion experience in Rome and Assisi with the intention of deepening the overall learning experience. Franciscan Leadership is a course designed to prepare students to be sound Christian leaders in the world. The Franciscan leader is defined as one who leads as Francis did, whose model for leadership was Jesus Christ in the gospels.

This course will help students to understand the purpose of work and a Christian understanding of vocation. Students will develop the capacity to practice critical reflection on experience to gain a better understanding of their unique identity and purpose in their vocation. Consideration will be given to (1) understandings of vocation in various historical, cultural, and religious contexts, (2) theological and ethical perspectives on work and calling, and (3) the changing character of vocation over the lifespan of individuals.

This course will review the history and writings of the Old Testament and New Testament of Christian sacred scriptures. A brief overview of the history and content of each book of the Bible and a general outline of each will be presented. Major narratives in both testaments are critically analyzed as to their application to the contemporary world. Prerequisite: 160 or 342. WCII, IFP

This course is the last two years of a four-year program supported by the La Crosse Diocesan School of Biblical Studies. Year three offers the Old Testament history: the Babylonian captivity, the work of the major and Minor prophets, and the return from exile. Year four offers an introduction to the poetry and wisdom of the Old Testament, a review of the Gospel of Matthew, the Pauline pastoral letters, and the Catholic Epistles. A brief review of the Epistle to the Hebrews will conclude this course. Restricted to students in the Diocesan School of Biblical Studies.

This course is the first two years of a four-year a School of Biblical Studies. Year one offers Old Testament foundations: Genesis through 1 & 1 Kings discussing Creation, Abrahamic covenant, Moses and the exodus and the establishment of the nation and kingdom of Israel. Year two offers an introduction to the New Testament foundations: the Gospels and the life of Christ, early church development (Act of the Apostles), substantive Pauline literature (1 & 2 Corinthians, Romans), and a review of the Book of Revelation. Restricted to students in the Diocesan School of Biblical Studies.

Designed for students intending a course of study in religious studies and theology. The emphasis will be on the development of effective learning, writing, and reading skills needed for the discipline. Topics include reading of primary texts, presenting on theological work, goal setting, research skills and resources. Restricted to and required for RLST majors during their first four semesters in the department; recommended for RLST minors. May be repeated for credit. OC