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.

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.

A concentrated exploration and study of the four Gospel narratives of Jesus Christ and their place within Christianity and the modern world. An in-depth study of the history and content of each Gospel will be presented. Major narratives are critically analyzed as to their application to the modern world. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

This course uses films (and similar media) to help participants develop an ability to recognize theological and religious themes and pratice methods for theological reflection. A variety of films will be shown, rated G-R, on themes of sacrifice, vocation, leadership, forgiveness, love, family, faith, and Catholic tradition. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

This course delves into foundational materials for developing a personal spirituality based on Christian principles for spiritual development. It will promote an understanding of the influence that spirituality, beliefs, and values have on human health and healing. The student will apply course content in developing a personal holistic approach in the care of self, patients, clients, families, and communities. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

A survey of the history of the Christian Church: its leaders, conflicts and development from the age of the Apostles to contemporary times. A study of the impact of church history for todays religious experience. Application of historical themes to the modern world. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

This class is designed to familiarize students with Christian tradition-its scripture, history, and doctrines-and its application and misapplication to the contemporary world. Banking on the adult learners experience and wisdom, students will be given additional tools to be critical thinkers about religion and religious experience in the public square. Students will have the opportunity to compare and contrast Christian thought with other monotheistic traditions, namely Islam and Judaism. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher. May not also take RLST-160 or 305. TI

This class is designed to familiarize students with Christian tradition-its scripture, history, and doctrines-and its application and misapplication to the contemporary world. Students will be given the tools and language to be critical thinkers about religion and religious experience in the public square. Students will have the opportunity to compare and contrast Christian thought with other monotheistic traditions, namely Islam and Judaism. Restricted to students with freshman and sophomore standing. May not also take RLST-305 or 342. TI

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

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.