BLS 221 Know Slow - Countering the Culture of Speed 3

This course examines the recent cultural movement of "slow," which includes Slow Food, Slow Looking, and Slow in the Arts, Literature, and Contemplative Practices. Slow arts and practices can help support students' metacognitive learning and their individual mental health and wellness.

MAC: MAC Health and Wellness

BLS 222 Notes from Underground: Resistance and Everyday Culture 3

Explores Cold War culture through the everyday ways Soviet citizens responded to official state narratives through literature, music, dress, and economic and consumer practices. Includes a comparative component with American culture of the same era.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

BLS 241 Visualizing Disability 3

This course examines methods, drawn from core disability studies criticism, to analyze visual representations of disability. Students will compare cultural frameworks for representing disability in fine art and other forms of visual culture. Assigned readings draw connections between disability and other aspects of identity, especially gender.

MAC: MAC Diversity and Equity

BLS 300 Seminar in Humanities 3

Interdisciplinary online seminar designed to introduce students to substantive concerns in the Humanities and methods of investigation they employ. Topics vary by semester.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

BLS 301 Pathways: Reading and Writing in the Humanities 3

Introduction to different modes of enquiry that make up the Humanities: Literature, Fine Arts, Philosophy/Religion/Ethics, and History. Emphasis on the development of academic skills in an online learning environment.

CIC: CIC College Writing

BLS 320 Selected Topics: Literature 3

Online course that examines selected topics in world literature exploring works of prose and/or poetry from diverse cultural traditions and periods. Topics vary by semester.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

BLS 321 Narrative Ethics: Literary Texts and Moral Issues in Medicine 3

Exploration of individual experience, interpersonal relationships, and cultural identity through the reading and critical analysis of works of short fiction from the 19th through the 21st centuries.

BLS 322 Revolutionary Lives 3

Examination of 19th–20th century Russian novels of conscience within their historical contexts and as related to the broader struggle between authority and conscience throughout history.

BLS 323 Short Reads 3

21st-century stories and other short writings from around the world, with a focus on current social, cultural, and global issues.

BLS 324 Banned Books 3

A study of books that have been banned or censored in the US, the reasons for those restrictions, and the legal and social forces that opposed them.

BLS 325 Mystery, Mayhem, and Murder 3

Examination of mystery and detective fiction from British and American authors throughout the history of the genre. Considers theory about narrative and mystery, and genre fiction as social commentary.

BLS 326 Telling Stories: The Memoir 3

Examination and analysis of contemporary book-length memoirs, personal memory essays, and self-portrait paintings; includes some creative writing.

BLS 327 Contemporary Asian Literature 3

Exploration of novels by major authors from South Asia and East Asia in the last half century. Examines cultures and politics, and relationships with the Western world.

BLS 340 Selected Topics: Fine Arts 3

Online course that examines selected topics in the fine arts exploring the aims and methods of artistic expression and the role of cultural traditions and artistic values in human society.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

BLS 342 Painting on the Page 3

Studies literary texts about works of Western art; explores the relationship between the interpretation of pictures and written texts, and considers questions about art, beauty, truth, and aesthetic experience.

BLS 343 Big Plays, Big Ideas 3

Examines great plays, classic to modern, that grapple with significant issues and ideas, and illuminate the human experience on the page and on the stage.

BLS 345 Photography: Contexts and Illusions 3

Examines the history, theory, and contexts of photography since its development. Explores uses and abuses of photography in science, art, and media; examines how photography crosses and confuses visual genres.

BLS 346 The Art of Life 3

Explores the relationship between the creative arts and human values, ideas, and emotions. Theme of "getting lost" in the creative process, which leads to discovery and insight—the accidental masterpiece.

BLS 347 Shakespeare Off the Page 3

Examines a selection of Shakespeare's major plays not only as universal and timeless works of literature, but as blueprints for live theatre productions and film performances for modern audiences.

CIC: CIC College Writing

BLS 348 Representing Women 3

Focuses on women as producers, consumers, and subjects of visual culture. Examines the Feminist art movement, Feminist critiques of popular culture, and the significance of visual representation to political representation.

BLS 360 Selected Topics: Philosophy/Religion/Ethics 3

Online course that examines selected topics in philosophy, religion, and ethics; compares assumptions, modes of thought, and attendant practices, and analyzes their effects on behavior and human society.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

BLS 361 American Dreams 3

Study of the "American Dream," its origins and historical development through its contemporary relevancy. Themes include freedom, immigration, nationalism, commercialism, class in America, the Dream's corollary: the American Nightmare.

BLS 362 Vice, Crime, and American Law 3

An examination of the moral concept of "vice" and its application in American criminal law. Topics include gambling, prostitution, pornography, drugs, hate speech, and laws prohibiting gay marriage.

BLS 363 Ethics and Technology 3

An examination of ethical problems created by technology. Additional emphasis given to the historical, legal, and cultural impacts technology has had on our society.

BLS 364 Mystics in America 3

Investigation of popular trends in contemporary American spirituality with attention to the historical roots that may or may not lie behind them.

BLS 365 Divided We Stand 3

Exploration of the relationship between religion and democracy in America. Topics include religion in the nation's founding, America as a secular state, religious pluralism, and religion in public discourse.

BLS 366 Life, Death, and Meaning 3

An examination of philosophical writings concerning death and the meaning of life. Plays, poems, art, literature, and films that apply or illustrate the philosophical works are also examined.

BLS 380 Selected Topics: Historical Perspectives 3

Online course that examines selected topics in history and explores the context of events (social structure, economics, political systems, culture, or beliefs) in a specific region and period.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

BLS 381 Old Europe/New Europe 3

Interdisciplinary cultural history of Europe from the French Revolution to the present. Introduction to key historical figures, cultural movements, and artistic developments.

BLS 382 The Sixties 3

Exploration of the cultural and political changes in American society during the 1960s and early 1970s.

BLS 383 Religious Resistance to Political Power 3

Explores religious resistance to atheist Soviet doctrine within the Soviet Union itself, in Communist Poland, and in Soviet-occupied Afghanistan. Examines relationships between religion and society in each context.

BLS 384 Great Trials in American History 3

Explores changes in American culture, society, and legal customs through the study of specific trials throughout American history, from the colonial period through the twentieth century.

BLS 385 American Motherhood 3

Examines representations of motherhood throughout American history in the media and in scholarly and creative literature. Explores the mothering experiences of women of different races, classes, and generations.

BLS 386 Women, War, and Terror 3

Examines women as victims and critics of war and terror in the 20th century, primarily through autobiographical writings, and explores broader questions of gender, language, power, and resistance.

BLS 387 Entrepreneurship in American History 3

This course will examine entrepreneurs who shaped the contours of the American economy from the first transatlantic trade routes to the World Wide Web. We utilize entrepreneurship to analyze the development of American capitalism from a string of coastal colonies to an economic world power.

Prerequisites: None.

Notes: Students who have prior credit for ECO 387 or ENT 387 may not take BLS 387 for credit.

BLS 400 Senior Seminar in the Humanities 3

Online, capstone experience for majors. Students compile Web portfolio of work from classes in the major. Course serves as a method of assessment for majors.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Prerequisites: Admission to major. Written Permission Required.

BLS 401 Individual Study 1-3

Directed program of reading and/or research in the humanities. Available to majors upon recommendation of an instructor and approval of the program directors.

Prerequisites: Admission to major. successful completion of one semester of course work at UNCG; permission of an approved, cooperating instructor.

IPS 201 Roadmaps to Degree Success 3

Provides foundational information for undergraduate success at UNCG. Concepts for interdisciplinary study and the fundamentals of higher education are included. Fosters development through goal setting and planning exercises.

MAC: MAC Foundations

Prerequisites: Must have fewer than 60 credits to enroll or can enroll by Written Permission.

IPS 300 Design and Systems Thinking 3

Students apply a human-centered approach to problem-solving to address complex issues across disciplines and real-world problems. Students utilize creative problem-solving strategies using design and systems thinking methods.

IPS 301 Design Thinking 3

Design Thinking is a creative and pragmatic path to innovation. Students learn a human-centered approach to problem-solving, emphasizing experimental and collaborative learning and real-world applications.

IPS 302 Systems Thinking 3

Overview of theory and processes commonly used to apply systems thinking approaches to addressing complex problems across disciplines, including arts and health. A case study approach facilitates this process.

IPS 303 Understanding Data 3

Students learn to identify, analyze, use, and interpret data to solve problems and make decisions. Interactive data activities, case studies, videos, lectures, and dialogue will facilitate student understanding.

IPS 304 Contemporary Media Literacies 3

Students learn theories of contemporary media literacy in order to interpret and create research products in multiple modes and situated in global contexts.

IPS 305 Global Awareness and Intercultural Competence 3

Interdisciplinary course designed to enhance students' global awareness by introducing them to contemporary global issues while increasing their intercultural competence.

IPS 306 Self-Awareness 3

Development of knowledge and skills to enhance personal success. Focus on self and other awareness and application to career and life goals.

IPS 307 Writing in Professional Contexts 3

This course uses a rhetorical framework to strengthen students’ academic and professional writing skills. Students focus on analyzing and developing successful writing strategies that will be applied in other IPS courses.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Notes: May be repeated twice for credit when topic varies.

IPS 401 Selected Topics in Health and Wellness Occupations 3

Integration of six universal program competencies applied to the study of selected topics in health and wellness occupations.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic changes.

IPS 402 Selected Topics in the Changing Workplace 3

Integration of six universal program competencies applied to the study of selected topics in the changing workplace.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic changes.

IPS 403 Selected Topics in Service Occupations 3

Integration of six universal program competencies applied to the study of selected topics in service occupations.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic changes.

IPS 404 Selected Topics in Arts, Entertainment, and Media Occupations 3

Integration of six universal program competencies applied to the study of selected topics in arts, entertainment, and media occupations.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic changes.

IPS 405 Selected Topics in Other Occupations 3

Integration of six universal program competencies applied to the study of selected topics in other occupations such as education, technology, etc.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic changes.

IPS 406 Integrative Thinking 3

Integrative Thinking is the intersection of Design Thinking, Systems Thinking, and Understanding Data. These tools and processes are applied together to address complex real-world problems and build evidence-based solutions. Students will use the 4 step integrative-thinking methodology to creatively solve problems building on the critical thinking skills they learned in the BIPS core courses.

Prerequisites: IPS 301, IPS 302, IPS 303.

IPS 407 Ethical Leadership 3

Course participants will develop their own ethical leadership perspective for a successful organizational culture and connect it to their own professional experiences and goals. Course methods include analysis of case studies, reflection, application of principles, and framework evaluations.

IPS 408 Applied Project Management 3

This course provides an introduction to Project Management, including all of the fundamental aspects of Project Management. Topics include project management methodologies from predictive to adaptive, theories and strategies, career specific project management skills, budgeting and financial planning, communication plan, and risk analysis.

IPS 409 Working in Virtual Teams 3

Course participants will learn about the different methods to communicate and collaborate as a virtual team when working in diverse locations. Success factors, dealing with conflict, managing projects, etc. will be covered in the course and a team project is included.

IPS 410 Capstone 3

In this course, students will apply and integrate the core competencies they've been immersed in throughout the BIPS program to address a real-world problem that has importance and meaning for them.

Prerequisites: IPS 300, IPS 303, IPS 304, IPS 305, ENG 327/IPS 307, and IPS 406. Integrated Professional Studies major.

IGS 200 Introduction to International and Global Studies 3

An interdisciplinary course introducing students to terms, concepts and approaches employed in discussing, analyzing, and responding to today's international and global issues, with an emphasis on the non-Western world.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

IGS 200X Experimental Course 1-6

This number reserved for experimental courses. Refer to the Course Schedule for current offerings.

IGS 223 Foundational Topics in International and Global Studies 3

An intermediate-level course concentrating on foundational topics of international or global concern. Course content may grow out of issues explored in IGS 200 or IGS 210 or IGS 213.

IGS 295 Study Abroad for Global Engagement: Pre-Departure 1

First of three courses taken in conjunction with a UNCG Study Abroad Exchange. Focus on pre-departure basics, field study techniques, and goal setting for global engagement through cultural competency.

Prerequisites: Acceptance to a UNCG Study Abroad Exchange Program.

Notes: May repeated up to three times (for three different exchange experiences) for credit when topic varies for a total of 3 s.h.. however, may apply only once toward Liberal and Interdisciplinary Studies, B.A.: IGS concentration requirements; Grade: Pass/Not Pass (P/NP).

IGS 296 Study Abroad for Global Engagement: Field Experience 1

Second of three courses taken in conjunction with a UNCG Study Abroad Exchange. Online individual study focusing on the field experience and appropriate engagement in international, intercultural, and/or multicultural contexts.

Prerequisites: IGS 295. Acceptance to a UNCG Study Abroad Exchange Program;

Notes: May repeated up to three times (for three different exchange experiences) for credit when topic varies for a total of 3 s.h.. however, may apply only once toward Liberal and Interdisciplinary Studies, B.A.: IGS concentration requirements; Grade: Pass/Not Pass (P/NP); Same as TED 296, SES 296.

IGS 297 Study Abroad for Global Engagement: Re-Entry Reflections and Applications 1

Third of three courses taken in conjunction with a UNCG Study Abroad Exchange. Focus on the re-entry and re-acculturation processes and the integration of intercultural development into future contexts.

Prerequisites: IGS 296. Acceptance to a UNCG Study Abroad Exchange Program;

Notes: May repeated up to three times (for three different exchange experiences) for credit when topic varies for a total of 3 s.h.. however, may apply only once toward Liberal and Interdisciplinary Studies, B.A.: IGS concentration requirements; Grade: Pass/Not Pass (P/NP); Same as TED 297, SES 297.

IGS 333 Selected Topics: International and Global Studies 3

An advanced-level course concentrating on topics of international or global concern. Course content may grow out of issues explored in IGS 200 or IGS 210 or IGS 213.

Notes: May be repeated for credit as topic changes.

IGS 400 Capstone Seminar in International and Global Studies 3

End-of-major interdisciplinary seminar involving advanced examinations of contemporary international and global issues, the production of a substantial research project related to the student's concentration, and intercultural competence training.

CIC: CIC College Writing

IGS 493 Honors Work 3

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor; permission of IGS director; minimum 3.30 GPA and 12 s.h. in the major;

Notes: May be repeated for credit for a maximum of 6 s.h. if the topic of study changes.

IGS 495 Individual Study 1-3

Directed program of individual study or research. Available to qualified students in collaboration with a qualified instructor and/or the IGS director.

Prerequisites: IGS 200 or IGS 210 or IGS 213. and permission of IGS director;

Notes: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 s.h.

MAS 610 Culture and Ideas 3

Artistic, literary, philosophical, or religious traditions, works of particular thinkers, and historical discourse on intellectual issues.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 610A Culture and Ideas 3

Artistic, literary, philosophical, or religious traditions, works of particular thinkers, and historical discourse on intellectual issues.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 610B Culture and Ideas 3

Artistic, literary, philosophical, or religious traditions, works of particular thinkers, and historical discourse on intellectual issues.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 610C Culture and Ideas 3

Artistic, literary, philosophical, or religious traditions, works of particular thinkers, and historical discourse on intellectual issues.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 610D Culture and Ideas 3

Artistic, literary, philosophical, or religious traditions, works of particular thinkers, and historical discourse on intellectual issues.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 610E Culture and Ideas 3

Artistic, literary, philosophical, or religious traditions, works of particular thinkers, and historical discourse on intellectual issues.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 610F Culture and Ideas 3

Artistic, literary, philosophical, or religious traditions, works of particular thinkers, and historical discourse on intellectual issues.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 611 Design Thinking 3

This course uses experiential learning and application of the design thinking process to teach tools and methodologies for approaching real world problems.

MAS 612 The Contemporary World 3

Examine issues in the contemporary world, focusing mainly on the post-World War II period, from the dropping of atomic bombs on Japan in August 1945, to the complex, high-tech world of today.

MAS 613 Literature of Migration 3

This course aims to deepen the understanding of how narratives help us connect our own lives to those who are in transition and crossing borders.

MAS 620 Human Nature and Society 3

Issues concerning human nature, society, or political life through works or problems from the various social sciences.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 620A Human Nature and Society 3

Issues concerning human nature, society, or political life through works or problems from the various social sciences.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 620B Human Nature and Society 3

Issues concerning human nature, society, or political life through works or problems from the various social sciences.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 620C Human Nature and Society 3

Issues concerning human nature, society, or political life through works or problems from the various social sciences.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 621 Systems Thinking 3

The primary goal of the course is for you to learn the tools of systems analysis and apply your skills to real world systemic problems to promote genuine, lasting change.

MAS 622 Global Trade 3

The course highlights the theory of free trade, investigating how free trade might or might not work, and for whose benefit.

MAS 623 Global Human Rights 3

Students utilize a fictional case study approach to develop human rights investigation and critical reporting skills, and analyze human rights documents.

MAS 624 Dignity, Identity, and Power 3

In this course, students will explore ways of understanding the problems of domination and injustice and real or perceived inequity-driven identity group or populist movement formation.

MAS 630 Scientific Reasoning 3

Reflections on scientific reasoning and/or investigations of particular problems to illustrate scientific reasoning.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 630A Scientific Reasoning 3

Reflections on scientific reasoning and/or investigations of particular problems to illustrate scientific reasoning.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

MAS 631 Understanding Data 3

Reflections on scientific reasoning and/or investigations of particular problems to illustrate scientific reasoning.

MAS 632 Integrative Thinking 3

Integrative Thinking is the intersection of Design Thinking, Systems Thinking, and Understanding Data. These tools and processes are applied together to address complex real-world problems and build evidence-based solutions.

MAS 633 Science, Environment, and the Media 3

Apply a systemic view of historic and current global environmental issues to deepen understanding and critical evaluation of media.

MAS 642 Foundations of the eLearning Classroom 3

In this course, students will gain knowledge, skills and experiences with a variety of information regarding instructional theory and principles. The content of this course will guide the student in preparing to teach in an online classroom setting.

MAS 643 Elements of eLearning Course Development 3

This course will focus on principles and practice related to pedagogy and androgogy, and the educational tools aligned with both to teach a full course. Deep dives surrounding course design and development of an eLearning course will be explored.

Prerequisites: MAS 642.

MAS 644 Designing and Developing for Blended eLearning Environments 3

Focuses on implementing upon pedagogy and andragogy to execute the necessary educational tools to teach either a fully online, hybrid or hyflex course. Special focus will be placed on designing and delivering content for complex subject areas such as science labs and the arts.

Prerequisites: MAS 642.

MAS 645 Living the Online Course 3

Focuses on engaging data, information, and insights related to the course content, learners, and yourself as the instructor to provide added value to the designed and static components of the course.

Prerequisites: MAS 642.

MAS 650 Independent Study 1-3

Guided readings, research and individual project work on an interdisciplinary topic under direction of a faculty member.

Notes: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits when topic varies.

MAS 695 Applied Capstone Experience 3

Apply knowledge and skills acquired from their course work to address a real-world problem.

Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.

Notes: Students must complete all other course work prior to taking MAS 695.

MAS 699 Thesis 1-6

Thesis.

MAS 801 Thesis Extension 1-3

Thesis Extension.

MAS 803 Research Extension 1-3

Research Extension.

REL 100 Introduction to World Religions 3

This course introduces major religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. We will begin with a brief survey of theoretical approaches to the study of religion. Topics of study will include each tradition’s historical origins, conceptions of the sacred, rituals and practices, and contemporary trends.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 101 Introduction to Religious Studies 3

Inquiry into religion through consideration of forms, patterns, categories, symbols, and practices which characterize various religious experiences.

MAC: MAC CritThink Hum and Fine Art

REL 102 Faith, Culture, and Community in Greensboro 3

Introduces students to study of religion, with emphasis on religious/cultural diversity in Greensboro/Guilford County. It provides students with an understanding of major religious/cultural groups in the area through site visits, readings, lectures, and guest speakers, as well as develops foundational college skills and familiarity with key programs on campus.

MAC: MAC Foundations

Prerequisites: Must have fewer than 60 credits to enroll or can enroll by Written Permission.

REL 103 Sex, Death, and Spirituality 3

Evaluates answers to the question, “Is love stronger than death?” Examines love, death, and the body in thinkers belonging to one or more religious traditions. May be repeated if topic changes.

MAC: MAC CritThink Hum and Fine Art

REL 104 Religion, Ritual, and the Arts 3

A study of how myths and stories are used in ritual and the arts. The specific traditions treated will vary.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 105 Islam and Popular Culture: Ms. Marvel, Movies, and Hip-Hop Hijabis 3

Explores how Muslim Americans express their religious identities through comic books, hip hop, movies, and other forms of popular culture.

MAC: MAC Diversity and Equity

REL 108 Religion and Food 3

This course will explain and compare Hindu, Jain, Christian, Jewish and Muslim foodways and evaluations of food. In the process of this comparative study, we will appraise how each of tradition conceptualizes wellness, and evaluates eating, feeding, overeating, dieting and fasting to promote or impede upon wellness.

MAC: MAC Health and Wellness

REL 109 Religion and Popular Culture 3

This course introduces critical issues in and approaches to religion and popular culture from around the world. Examining a series of case studies drawn from film, television, popular music, video games, and consumer culture, it considers what counts as religion and how people use spirituality in their daily lives.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 111 Introduction to Asian Religion 3

Comparative study of Asian religions and their contributions to modern religious self-understanding, focusing critically and evaluatively on such patterns of expression as myth, ritual, and social forms.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 112 Spirituality, Health, and Wellness 3

This course examines the intersections of spirituality, health, and wellness across diverse cultures and religious traditions.

MAC: MAC Health and Wellness

REL 113 Supernatural Encounters 3

Concepts of the “supernatural ” have shaped religious imaginaries of cultures/societies throughout history. To gain insights into historical/cultural contexts of these concepts, this course surveys beliefs/practices associated with supernatural beings and forces. The scope of this survey will include, but not be limited to Eastern, Western, and Indigenous Religions.

MAC: MAC Foundations

Prerequisites: Must have fewer than 60 credits to enroll or can enroll by Written Permission.

REL 115 Religion and Science 3

This course is a study of the relationship between religion and science. Primary but not exclusive emphasis will be placed on the religion-science debates as they have developed in relation to modern science and understandings of Western theism.

MAC: MAC Diversity and Equity

REL 132 Religious Diversity in America 3

American religion has been defined by immigration and new religious movements, creating a staggering array of religious communities in the United States. This course introduces the diversity of religions in the United States and focuses on the difference between encounter, tolerance, religious creativity, and pluralism.

MAC: MAC Diversity and Equity

REL 190 Introduction to Scriptural Language 1-3

Introduction to the language of a major scriptural tradition, such as Hebrew, Chinese, Tibetan, or Sanskrit. Emphasis on writing system, grammar, and vocabulary.

Notes: May be repeated when topic changes.

REL 201 The Bible in Western Culture 3

Study of significant themes and issues in the Bible and their expression in the religious literature and history of Europe and America.

MAC: MAC CritThink Hum and Fine Art

REL 202 Hebrew Bible 3

Study of the Hebrew scriptures (the Old Testament) in historical, sociological, and literary context.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 204 New Testament and the Origins of Christianity 3

Study of the New Testament texts in their historical, sociological, and literary contexts.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 207 Critical Thinking about Religion, Faith and Spirituality: Selected Topics 3

Exploration of ways in which religion, faith and sprituality have been understood in the context of the eclipse of religion in Western culture from the Enlightenment to the present.

MAC: MAC CritThink Hum and Fine Art

REL 209 Elements of Christian Thought 3

Investigates the coherence of Christian accounts of such topics as incarnation, trinity, creation, evil, sacraments, the body, and salvation.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 210 Christianity to the Reformation 3

Study of classic Christian texts, symbols, rituals, and social movements to the dawn of the Reformation.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 212 Christianity from the Reformation to the Present 3

Examination of a range of themes in the history of Christian thought from the sixteenth century to present, through reading of a variety of texts representative of Christian traditions.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 215 Judaism 3

Introductory study of Judaism, its history, texts, life, and thought.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 217 The Synagogue 3

The synagogue has been and remains the center of Jewish life. This course will explore the nomenclature, history, architecture, art, and literature of the synagogue in ancient, medieval, and modern times.

REL 218 Chinese Religion 3

A study of the religions of China in the classical and modern periods focusing on thought, ritual, social structure, and aesthetics.

REL 220 East Asian Religions 3

A study of the religions of East Asia in the classical and modern periods focusing on thought, ritual, social structure, and aesthetics.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 221 Buddhism 3

Introduction to the origin, development, and impact of Buddhism in Asian cultures. Focus on religious doctrines, forms of community, religious practices, techniques, art and iconography, and the implications of the Buddhist perspective for the contemporary world in both Asia and the West.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 223 Hinduism 3

Introduction to the Hindu religious tradition, its myths, rituals, music, social structure, and philosophical thought.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 224 Yoga: Theory And Practice 3

This course will introduce the broad array of mental and bodily disciplines and philosophies that fall under the term “yoga”. Exploring foundational texts and contemporary yoga communities, we will identify and compare how various strands of yoga understand, define and pursue holistic wellness through bodily and mental disciplines.

MAC: MAC Health and Wellness

REL 225 Islam 3

Introduction to origins of Islam and its development as a world religion focusing on doctrine, ritual practices, and community structures.

MAC: MAC Global and Intercultural

REL 226 Approaches to the Qur'an 3

Study of significant themes and stories of the Qur'an, with an emphasis on diversity of interpretations.

MAC: MAC CritThink Hum and Fine Art

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 229 Introduction to African American Religions 3

Examination of the diverse beliefs and practices of African American religious traditions and their development in the Americas.

MAC: MAC Diversity and Equity

REL 230 Introduction to the Cultural Study of Videogaming 3

This course analyzes video gaming and esports cultures and values, as well as how they interact with society in general. This course teaches students the history, methodology, and theoretical approaches to videogaming and esports from various fields and disciplines.

REL 231 Religion in America 3

Diverse religious traditions and thinkers that have played a significant role in the history of the United States from Native American beginnings to the present.

MAC: MAC Diversity and Equity

REL 233 Witches, Spirits, and Metaphysicalism in America 3

This course focuses on the traditions of paganism, the occult, and metaphysicalism in the US. We will learn about New England witches, Black conjure, spiritualist seances, and the flowering of New Age and Neopaganism in the twentieth century. We will also consider how these traditions relate to institutional religion.

MAC: MAC CritThink Hum and Fine Art

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 234 Religion and Race in the Americas 3

This course focuses on race as a component of religious experience as well as the role of religion in “racialization.” We will focus on the Iberian categories of “bad blood,” Afro-Atlantic religions, Nation of Islam, Mormons and whiteness, and the role of Christianity in American white supremacy.

MAC: MAC Diversity and Equity

REL 236 Politics and Religion 3

This course examines politics and religion in North America, Europe, and Asia. The class also focuses heavily on building foundational academic skills and acquainting students with university services and learning resources.

MAC: MAC Foundations

Prerequisites: Must have fewer than 60 credits to enroll or can enroll by Written Permission.

REL 240 Modern Judaism 3

A survey of key topics in modern Judaism.

REL 245 Video Games and the Problem of Evil 3

Using a wide range of topics, analytical theories and methods, as well as ethical perspectives, the course introduces students to the concept of evil, digital media, networked society and consumer culture through the critical interpretation of video gaming.

MAC: MAC CritThink Hum and Fine Art

REL 247 Fandom and Religion: Rituals, Texts, Communities 3

Drawing on conceptual frameworks and case studies, students in this course will examine parallels between religion and fandom to identify and explore how fandoms may resemble, constitute or replace religion in contemporary life.

MAC: MAC Written Communication

REL 248 Comparative Religious Ethics 3

Comparative study of the ethical teachings of two or more Western and non-Western religious traditions focusing on the diversity within and among traditions and their effects on modes of life.

REL 249 Religion and Public Health 3

This course examines both the compatibility and conflict between religious perspectives and the scientific foundations of public health. Emphasis will be focused on the cultural influence of religion on individual and community attitudes toward health care practices and how these influence achieving and maintaining public health goals.

MAC: MAC Health and Wellness

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 250 Religious Traditions and Care of the Earth 3

Examination of the thought, ethics, and practice of major religious traditions and worldviews with regards to the care of the earth. Emphasis on non-Western, indigenous, and ecofeminist traditions.

MAC: MAC Diversity and Equity

REL 251 Topics in Religious Social Ethics 3

Inquiry into the social teachings of diverse religious traditions with respect to such current topics as economic development and social justice, human rights, democracy, freedom, human well-being and the environment.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

REL 254 Religion in Traditional Societies 3

Study of religion in traditional societies in which the basic question "What is it to be human?" is raised by entering into the diverse symbolic worlds of native Americans, Africans, or others.

REL 255 Spirituality and the 12 Steps 3

This course will address Alcoholism and other substance use disorders on society and individuals. The course will critically examine the dynamics of substance use disorder with an emphasis on the history, spirituality, and practice of 12-step recovery as developed by Alcoholics Anonymous. Interfaith influences on the 12-steps will be considered.

REL 259 Philosophy of Religion 3

Arguments concerning God's existence, the problem of evil, God's foreknowledge and human freedom, the analysis of divine attributes, immortality and the soul.

REL 270 Digital Religion 3

This course examines “digital religion”, the ways people use new media technologies to practice religion. This course will prepare students to navigate cross-cultural climates in an increasingly digital world by familiarizing them to the range of ways religious expression takes place.

REL 275 Religion and Media 3

Aimed at majors and non-majors alike, this course will provide students both with a conceptual or theoretical understanding of what is “media” and what is “religion”, while also working through case studies that explore the wide range of applications for such a study.

REL 298 Thinking About Religion 3

Critical reflection on the academic study of religion. Evaluation of theories of religion drawn from the social sciences, humanities, and religious traditions themselves through their application to case studies.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 300X Experimental Course 1-6

This number reserved for experimental courses. Refer to the Course Schedule for current offerings.

REL 301 Early Christianity 3

Development of various kinds of Christian beliefs and practices from the second to seventh centuries. Focus on primary sources.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 303 Christianity in Byzantium 3

Explores the formation of Orthodox Christianity from the sixth to the twelfth century. Topics include liturgy, icons, church architecture and decoration, saints' cults, monasticism, and lay practice.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 305 Religions of the Greco-Roman World 3

Study of themes in Judaism, Christianity, and pagan religious movements of the Mediterranean world from Alexander to Constantine.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 310 Christianity and the Construction of Gender 3

Study of the role of categories of male and female in the creation and maintenance of Christian notions of holiness, authority, and hierarchy in historical perspective.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Notes: Same as WGS 310.

REL 311 Topics in Biblical Studies 3

Examination of specific biblical texts, themes, or interpretations in the context of Jewish and Christian religious traditions or in terms of significant literary or historical issues.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topics vary, with permission of instructor.

REL 314 Saint and Society in the Early Middle Ages 3

Examination of the concept of sanctity and of the rise and function of the veneration of holy men and women in Christian tradition from the fourth to the seventh century.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 317 Islam and the Construction of Gender 3

Study of the role of gendered categories in the creation and maintenance of Islamic notions of piety, authority, and community.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 323 Religious Movements and Communities: Selected Topics 3

Selected topics will bring to bear historical, analytical, theological, and ethical tools to understand religious movements. Faculty and topics will vary.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Notes: May be repeated when topic varies.

REL 324 Philosophical Issues in Religion 3

Modes of philosophical reflection, groups of human conceptuality and their relation to the truth of religious claims.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

REL 330 Major American Religious Thinkers 3

Topics to vary. Analysis and evaluation of major works by an American religious thinker, e.g., Jonathan Edwards, or works exemplifying a particular intellectual movement, e.g., the Puritan Christian Enlightenment.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 332 Contemporary African American Religious Thought 3

Explores the variety of contemporary African American religious thought: Buddhist, Christian, Islamic, Judaic, and New World Yoruba. The relation between religious racial identities is a primary focus.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 333 Religion and Psychology 3

Presents classic Western and/or Asian psychological theories of religion and shows how various religious traditions understand the human psyche.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 334 American Cults 3

This course will explore the history of schismatic religious groups, anti-cult hysteria, and controlling religious authority in American history by focusing on Jonestown, Waco, and NXIVM. This course asks who gets to call a religion a cult, and whether the term is a useful category for cultural analysis.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 336 Native American Religions 3

In this class we focus on Nave American fights for sovereignty and control of sacred lands in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. We also consider how Nave Americans are using religion, ritual, and spirituality as a mode of identity formation in contemporary America.

REL 337 Enslaved Religion 3

We will look at how enslaved people remade Christianity and how many enslaved people rejected Christianity and continued to practice their own traditions, from Islam to the Afro-Atlantic religions of the African Diaspora. We will also read cultural theories of “power,” in both the material and spiritual sense.

REL 355 The Religious Discourse of Civil Rights 3

Explores Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish involvement in American racial reform in the twentieth century.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 368 Religion in South Asia: Selected Topics 3

Selected aspects of religion in South Asia. Possible topics include ritual, myth, festivals, and pilgrimage in Jainism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, or other religions of the Indian subcontinent.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

REL 370 Religions of Iran: Selected Topics 3

Explores selected aspects of Iranian religions. Possible topics include Zoroastrianism, Sufism, Twelver Shi'ism, and the Babi and Baha'i faiths.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Notes: May be repeated up to three times as the topic varies.

REL 371 Topics in Islam: Islamic Thought, Culture, and History 3

Explores specific topics in Muslim thought, culture, or history. Topics vary and may include studies in hadith, mysticism, philosophy, or literature.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Notes: May be repeated for up to 9 hours of credit when topic varies.

REL 375 Religion and Popular Culture: Selected Topics 3

This course examines the relationship between religion and popular culture. We will read foundational texts in the field of religious studies, explore academic writings on the intersections of religion and popular culture, and watch, listen, discuss, and critically analyze television, film, music, sports, celebrity, and other popular cultural movements.

CIC: CIC College Writing

REL 376 Religion and Media: Selected Topics 3

This course will select topics relevant to the study of religion and media. Through case studies emerging from traditions of the east and west, historical and contemporary, students will develop skills to articulate how religion and media combine to express and shape human thinking and behavior.

REL 380 Videogaming and Death 3

Death has always been a part of videogames: a way of dividing up playtime, effort, and accomplishment. Through a combination of reading about and playing games this course offers a hands-on approach to studying videogaming as an academic pursuit and what that can teach us about death and dying.

REL 382 Topics in Christian Thought 3

Examination of an issue in Christian thought or history.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

REL 400 Topics in Religious Studies 3

Study of role, nature, and function of selected social forms of religious life through cross-cultural comparison or intensive study of one religious tradition.

Notes: May be repeated once for credit.

REL 400X Experimental Course 1-6

This number reserved for experimental courses. Refer to the Course Schedule for current offerings.

REL 401 Tutorial 1-3

Directed program of reading, research, and private instruction.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.

REL 402 Tutorial 1-3

Directed program of reading, research, and private instruction.

Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.

REL 403 Tutorial 1-3

Directed program of reading, research, and private instruction.

Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.

REL 404 Tutorial 1-3

Directed program of reading, research, and private instruction.

Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.

REL 410 Senior Seminar 3

Colloquium on a unifying theme or major recent work in Religious Studies. Topic will vary with instructor.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Prerequisites: REL 298. RELS major; Required of all seniors;

Notes: May be repeated for up to 9 hours of credit when topic varies.

REL 420 Internship in Religious Studies 3

Practical experience in a variety of professional settings. Includes 10 hours per week at internship site, plus regular meetings with a faculty advisor.

REL 493 Honors Work 3-6

Honors Work.

Prerequisites: Permission of instructor. 3.30 GPA in the major, 12 s.h. in the major;

Notes: May be repeated for credit if the topic of study changes.

REL 503 Topics in Religious Studies 3

Study of role, nature, and function of selected social forms of religious life through cross-cultural comparison or intensive study of one religious tradition.

Notes: May be repeated once for credit.

REL 695 Independent Study 1-3

Directed program of reading, research, and individual instruction.

Prerequisites: Permission of department head and instructor.

SSC 300 Research Methods in the Social Sciences 3

Introductory course for the Social Sciences and Psychology concentrations of the Liberal and Professional Studies Major. Topics include epistemology, theory development, research ethics, study design, data collection, and data analysis.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Prerequisites: Social Sciences or General Psychology concentration in LPS. junior or senior standing; or permission of the instructor.

SSC 301 Contemporary Issues in the Social Sciences 3

Introductory course for the online SPLS Social Sciences major. Analysis of a single contemporary issue using each of the academic disciplines in the SPLS Social Science concentration.

Prerequisites: SPLS Social Sciences major. junior or senior standing; or permission of the instructor.

SSC 350 Inequality in a Changing World 3

This course introduces major schools of social science theory from several areas of study and applies them to the study and explanation of domestic and global inequality.

Prerequisites: SSC 300. SSC 301; 12 s.h. in residence at UNCG (can include SSC 300 and SSC 301); SPLS major with a concentration in Social Sciences.

SSC 400 Senior Seminar in the Social Sciences 3

Capstone seminar for Liberal and Interdisciplinary Studies students pursuing the Social Science, Professional Studies, or General Psychology concentration. To be taken in the final year of the major for Social Science, General Psychology, or Professional Studies Concentration students.

CIC: CIC College Writing

Prerequisites: LINS major and permission of the instructor.

SSC 401 Individual Study in the Social Sciences 1-3

Directed program of reading and/or research in the Social Sciences. The credits can be used to fulfill either "distribution" or "area of emphasis" requirements.

Prerequisites: SSC 300 and SSC 301. permission of instructor and program director;

Notes: May be repeated once for credit, for up to 6 s.h.

SSC 402 Topics in Social Sciences 3

Online course that examines selected topics in the social sciences in an interdisciplinary fashion. Topics vary by semester.

Notes: May be repeated for credit when topics vary.