Certificate in the Philosophy of Religion
Choose 3 courses, 9 hours. The grade of a C or better must be obtained in each class taken towards a certificate. Also, no more than one course transferred in from another institution can be used towards a certificate. Please complete this form and email it to the department administrative assistant, Jodie Wear-Leiker, jwearlei@fhsu.edu if you have met the requirements to earn this certificate.
The Philosophy of Religion certificate introduces you to major religions from all around the world, from Hinduism to Islam. If you are considering graduate study or a career in religion, this certificate is for you. The following courses complete this certificate:
PHIL 140 - Philosophy and the Bible: Old Testament (3)
A study of the Old Testament, focusing on how it came to be written, on the social, cultural, and physical worlds it describes, on the meaning and interpretation of important passages and books, and especially on philosophical questions it raises, such as those concerning the problem of evil, the creation and evolution debate, and the relation between ethics and religion.
PHIL 170 - World Religions (3)
A study of the world's major religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Students will explore the basic histories and beliefs of these religions as well as some of the ethical issues that arise for modern practitioners. The course will also consider related philosophical questions such as the definition of religion and the relation of religion to morality and the good life.
PHIL 240 - Philosophy and the Bible: New Testament (3)
A study of the New Testament, focusing on how it came to be written, on the social, cultural, and physical worlds it describes, on the meaning and interpretation of important passages and books, and especially on philosophical questions it raises, such as those concerning Jesus' divinity, the Trinity, the Resurrection, Salvation, and the relation between ethics and religion.
PHIL 360 - Philosophy of Religion (3)
A study of questions which arise in philosophical reflection on beliefs and concepts central to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, such as whether God can be defined, whether God's existence can be proven, and whether faith in God is reasonable given the variety and extent of suffering in the world.
PHIL 370 - Eastern Philosophy (3)
A study of the wisdom found in Asian traditions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Daoism, and Confucianism. Topics may include atman, karma, reincarnation, nirvana, and yin-yang philosophy. Special attention will be paid to the manner in which such beliefs arise out of personal experience and are instantiated in practices such as yoga, meditation, and non-duality.
PHIL 490 - Topics in Philosophy (1-3)
A study of a particular philosopher or philosophical topic not otherwise available in the curriculum. The content of this course will vary from semester to semester, and students may register more than once. When topic is relevant and chair approves.
PHIL 672 - Readings in Philosophy (1-3)
A tutorial course intended for those with some concentration in philosophy. The content of this course will vary from semester to semester, and students may register more than once. Requires permission of the instructor. When topic is relevant and chair approves.