Course Descriptions
Click here for Graduate course descriptions.
RST 11 - Introduction to Hebrew Scriptures (3)
A considerationof selected themes of the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament), viewed from the perspective of revelation and analyzed with the methods of modern biblical scholarship. GS-VA1
RST 15 - Introduction to the New Testament (3)
An introduction to methods of modern biblical scholarship and an examination of the four canonical gospels, selected Pauline letters, and Acts of the Apostles. GS-VA1
RST 21 - Contemporary Catholicism (3)
Study of how early Christianity and contemporary Catholicism perceived representative beliefs, rites, ethics, and community structures in the Catholic tradition of Christianity. Includes discussion of some contemporary concerns and issues in light of Vatican Council II. GS-VA2
RST 23 - Spiritual Journeys of Women (3)
An exploration of the spiritual experiences of women primarily from the Judeo-Christian tradition. These experiences will be probed for elements which might be transferable beyond their particular historical and personal contexts to current spiritual experiences. GS-VA2
RST 25/125 - Theology of Marriage and Family (3)
Overview of Catholic theology of marriage and family from biblical, historical, cultural and ethical perspectives. (See statement on prerequisite.) GS-VA2
RST 41 - Introduction to Christian Ethics (3)
An introduction to the study of moral decision-making from the perspective of Christian faith. The sources and nature of moral obligation, personal and social responsibility, freedom and sinfulness are among the topics to be covered. GS-VA3
RST 45/145 - Contemporary Issues in Christian Ethics (3)
A consideration of the positions and views of Christian ethicists on selected contemporary issues. Topics may vary. Prerequisite for RST 145: A lower division course in this area. GS-VA3
RST 49/149 - Biomedical Issues in Christian Ethics (3)
A study of issues and questions concerning the phenomenon of human life, the process of dying, and current developments in medicine and technology. Topics include reproductive technologies, genetic engineering, euthanasia, healthcare reform and clinical ethics. Prerequisite for RST 149: RST 41 or RST 21. GS-VA3
RST 61/161 - World Religions (3)
A survey of the largest religious traditions: includes Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Other religions may be added (e.g., Confucian/Taoism at the discretion of professor). This course focuses on the following: the religion’s historical development, its sacred texts, essentials in its way of life, its spiritual life and arts, and distinctive truths about ultimate realities and the unique purpose of human life and afterlife hopes. Prerequisite for RST 161: A lower division course in the same area. GS-VA4, VI
RST 70 - Faith and Human Development (3)
A study of the phenomenon of religious belief and the importance of faith for one's further development as a person in relation to others and to God. GS-VA2
RST 78/178 - Death and Afterlife (3)
A study of world religions with focus on each religion’s distinctive understanding of the unique dimensions of human death and mortality, spiritual religious preparations for one’s death and life, ideals for religious ways to go through bodily death and a detailed understanding of life after death and the ultimate hopes it embodies. Prerequisite for RST 178: A lower division course in the same area. GS-VA4, VI
RST 131 - Jesus of Nazareth, Christ of Faith (3)
A brief survey of the historical development of the Christian understandings of Jesus as the Christ from biblical traditions to the present. Discussion of key aspects of current interpretations of Jesus. Prerequisite: RST 15 or RST 21, or permission of the instructor. GS-VA2
RST 135 Women and Christianity (3)
An introduction to a variety of the major themes and issues which are engaging Christian and Catholic feminist liberation theologians including the roles of women in scripture, Christian history, and church life. (See statement on prerequisite.) GS-VA2
RST 137 - Challenges in Contemporary Theology (3)
>Presentation of how major changes in theology during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries not only challenged traditional Catholic thought and practice, but also influenced contemporary theology and praxis. (See statement on prerequisite.) GS-VA2
RST 146 - The Catholic Justice and Peace Tradition (3)
An examination of Catholic Social Teaching, an ethical tradition which has developed in the past century as the church faced contemporary social problems such as structural poverty, discrimination, immigration, racism, violence and war. The course will also focus on particular groups which have been inspired by this body of teachings. (See statement on prerequisite.) GS-VA3
RST 155ABCD - Upper Division Scripture Study (3,3,3,3)
A. Synoptic Gospels: Advanced study of the three synoptics with special attention given to literary style, historical context, interpretation skills and the Christology contained in each.
B. Pauline Literature: Advanced study of the various Pauline themes as well as the historical context of the first Christian communities that affected the future of the early Church.
C. Johannine Literature: Study of the Gospel of John in relation to other New Testament tests, with emphasis on the historical context of the Johannine community and its understanding of revelation.
D. Hebrew Scriptures: Advanced study of selected texts in the Hebrew Scriptures, with attention to literary style, historical context, interpretation skills and the understanding of God's revelation to Israel. GS-VA1
RST 170 - Theology and Human Experience (3)
A survey of human psychological development and human faith development which explores how personal, social and cultural experiences influence a person’s faith development. (See statement on prerequisite.)
RST 172 - Jesus and the Buddha (3)
An advanced comparison of the life and teachings of Jesus and Gautama, the Buddha. Comparisons will use the sacred texts of these two religions to represent the life story and religious teachings of these founders. It will also include dialogues on the important similarities and differences which Christian and Buddhist traditions have developed, including how Buddhists understand Jesus and Christians understand the Buddha. Prerequisite: RST 61 or equivalent background in Buddhism and Christianity. GS-VA4, VI
RST 175 - Myth, Religion and Culture (3)
A study of representative religious myths on a variety of sacred themes: myths of creation, myths of salvation, myths of the cycles of history, myths of the origin of human death, myths of the gods’ and goddesses’ lives, myths of the afterlife, myths of the ends of the world. The focus of these studies is to understand the special nature of myth as a religious way of understanding these sacred realities. Where possible, the presence of these myths in cultural literature, cinema, and arts will also be illustrated. GS-VA4, VI
RST 190E - Advanced Studies in Christian Ethics (1-3)
Advanced study of special figures or topics such as war and peace, liberation theology, and racism. Selected themes may vary with each offering. May be repeated for credit. IV. Religion and the Religions Upper Division Prerequisites: Ordinarily all upper division courses in Religion and the Religions require one (1) course in the same area of study. A waiver of a prerequisite may be granted on approval of the instructor.
RST 190R Advanced Studies in Religion(s) (1-3)
Advanced study of special topics, figures, or texts. Selected themes may vary with each offering. May be repeated for credit.
RST 190T - Advanced Studies in Christian Thought (1-3)
Advanced study of special texts, figures or topics such as Church history, sacraments, liturgy, for credit.
RST 191 Seminar (3)
Advanced study and research in any of the four major areas of study. Selected themes, figures, issues or texts. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: A minimum of one (1) lower division course from any area of religious studies. Permission of instructor is required.
RST 193 - Directed Studies (1-3)
Offered with approval of instructor and chairperson, following the published procedures for Directed Studies courses.
RST 196 - Independent Studies (1-3)
Offered only with approval of instructor and chairperson, following the published procedures for Independent Studies courses.
RST 199 - Senior Thesis/Project – for RST majors only (3)
Written thesis or service ministry project (including written component) completed in senior year under the direction of a Religious Studies faculty member. The thesis focuses on an area of interest and results in a well-developed research paper which demonstrates the student’s understanding and critical assessment of a topic in religion. The project engages the student in a theological reflection process at a predetermined service ministry site, and demonstrates the student’s ability to appropriate and apply religious theories and resources to practical ministry and to correlate practical learnings from the workplace with theory.
RST 199H - Senior Honors Thesis (3)
Open only to students admitted to the Honors Program.
The following courses also are eligible for Religious Studies credit:
PHI 160/RST 160 - Philosophy of Religion (3)
See PHI 160 for course description. When taken under RST designation, GS-VA4, and VI.
SOC 195/RST 180 - Sociology of Religion (3)
See SOC 195 for course description. When taken under RST designation, GS-VA4.
ENG 130/RST 120 - Faith and Fiction (3)
See ENG 130 for course description. When taken for RST designation, prerequisite applies: either a Scripture course or RST 21, Catholicism.
HIS 131/RST 130 - History of Religion in North America (3)
See HIS 131 for course description.
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Graduate Course Descriptions
HEBREW AND CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURE (RST 200 – RST 219)
RST 200 Overview of the Biblical Tradition (3)
This course will address the fundamental principles underlying the development of biblical tradition from the Abramic Covenant to modern contemporary biblical hermeneutics (A required course for those who have no undergraduate degree in religious studies or theology.)
RST 201 The Pentateuch and Historical Books (3)
An introduction to the formation of the Pentateuch and the historical books of the Hebrew Scriptures and to their historical, cultural, and theological background.
RST 203 The Prophets (3)
A study of major prophetic literature in relation to its historical, cultural, and theological context.
RST 206 Psalms and Wisdom Literature (2-3)
An examination of psalms and wisdom literature and an exegesis of representative psalms and passages.
RST 207 Hebrew Apocalyptic Texts and the Book of Revelation (3)
An historical, literary and theological study of the post-exilic texts, Daniel and Maccabees 1 and 2, and their relationship to other writings of the Hebrew Scriptures and to the Book of Revelation.
RST 208 Synoptic Gospels (3)
The theology and background of the synoptic gospels; their purpose, hermeneutics and related special issues.
RST 210 Gospel and Letters of John (3)
A study of Johannine Literature: the Gospel of John, its theology, themes, sources, and associated problematic; the letters of John, their theology, questions, themes, and sources.
RST 212 Pauline Literature (3)
Theology of Paul with special emphasis on such themes as eschatology, community, justification, Christ, apostleship.
RST 213 Letters to the Hebrews and the Catholic Letters (3)
Historical, literary and theological approaches to the universal letters that emerged from the first Christian communities.
RST 219 Advanced Studies in Sacred Scripture (1-3)
An in-depth study of a specific topic or issue in Scripture (eg. Faith and works in James, the churches St. Paul left behind, etc.). This course may be repeated for credit.
SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY (RST 220 – RST 239)
RST 220 Foundations of Theology (3)
This course introduces various methodologies used in theological research. It presents the research skills required to study the Church as a living, Christian community constantly interpreting its own life within the context of an ongoing relationship with God. (Required course for all students)
RST 222 Theology of God (3)
A study of the historical and contemporary understanding of God using both biblical and traditional sources. Particular attention is given to the Trinity.
RST 223 Christology (3)
A critical-historical theological reflection on the Christian confession that Jesus of Nazareth is Christ and Savior.
RST 224 Pneumatology (3)
A study of the Spirit of God, Third Person of the Trinity, in Scripture, the Tradition, and contemporary-post Vatican II Theology with an application to pastoral theology and the developing self-understanding of the Church.
RST 225 Theology of Grace (3)
Grace (the loving presence and action of God in the world) studied from the point of view of Sacred Scripture, and its historical development of thought in classical and contemporary theology.
RST 228 Ecclesiology (3)
Development and presentation of a working, contemporary ecclesiology through dialog with Sacred Scripture, the Tradition of the Church, Vatican II and contemporary theologies.
RST 229 General Sacramentology (3)
A history and theology of sacramental life as it has developed from first century Christianity to its contemporary setting.
RST 229A Sacraments of Initiation I: Baptism and Confirmation (3)
A study of the history and theology of the rite of Christian Initiation, with special emphasis on the theology of Baptism and Confirmation.
RST 229B Sacraments of Initiation II: The Eucharist (3)
The history and theology of the Eucharist as it has developed and is lived out in the “Communio” of the People of God.
RST 229C Sacraments of Healing: Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick (3)
The history, development and contemporary practice of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick as an extension of Jesus’ healing ministry.
RST 229D Sacraments of Vocation I: Marriage (3)
A study of the history of the marriage covenant, its development as a Sacrament in the Church and its implications for the family as a “domestic church”.
RST 229E Sacraments of Vocation II: Sacrament of Orders and Ministry (3)
The history and development of the Sacrament of Orders in the Church and its relationship to other baptismal ministries
RST 230 A Survey of Church History
A survey of the various eras in Church History: The beginning of the Church the Post-Modern and contemporary era.
RST 232 Ecumenism (3)
This course presents an historical overview of the Ecumenical Movement and its antecedents. Special attention is given to Nostra Aetate and the contemporary efforts towards Christian unity.
RST 234 Contemporary Issues in World Religions (1-3)
An in-depth study of contemporary topics in the dialog between the major world faith traditions.
RST 235 The Catholic Church in the Southwestern United States (3)
A survey of the history, traditions and roots of the diverse cultural expressions of faith as found in the Church in the Southwestern United States. (Units may be used to fulfill ministry requirements)
RST 236 Christian Spirituality (3)
A study of the sources and practices of Christian Spirituality.
RST 237 Foundations of Liturgy (3)
Liturgy celebrates and proclaims the mystery of Christ in the People of God. This course studies its development in Sacred Scripture, the Tradition, the Documents of Vatican II, the Post-Conciliar documents and contemporary theology.
RST 238 Advanced Studies in Liturgy (1-3)
An in-depth study of selected topics and issues in liturgy (e.g. development of the epiclesis, the breaking of the bread in the early churches, etc.) This course may be repeated for credit.
RST 239 Advanced Studies in Systematics (1-3)
Advanced Studies in Systematics includes in-depth study of topics and issues in Systematic Theology. (e.g. feminist theology, history of the missions, etc.) This course may be repeated for credit.
CHRISTIAN ETHICS (RST 240 – RST 249)
RST 242 Fundamental Christian Ethics (3)
A study of the way in which contemporary moral theology has developed in treating the fundamental elements of Christian moral judgment, formation of conscience, person as moral agent, moral norms and natural law. (This is a required course for all students who have no degree in religious studies or theology.)
RST 243 Catholic Social Teaching (3)
A theological investigation of the collection of Catholic Social Teachings developed in the 20th century when Christian morality, rooted in Scripture and tradition, encountered contemporary social problems.
RST 245 Liberation Theology (3)
An investigation of the theological literature concerned with liberation and a discussion of problematics involved in social change. (Units maybe applied to requirements for Systematic Theology)
RST 246 Biomedical Ethics (3)
A study of issues and questions concerning the phenomenon of human life and the process of dying. Topics include reproductive technologies, genetic engineering and euthanasia.
RST 247 Sexual Ethics (3)
A study of the questions relating to human sexuality and marriage as seen from an ethical-biblical perspective, with attention given to the insights from psychology, theology and spirituality.
RST 248 Ethical issues in Pastoral Ministry (3)
An overview of basic ethical concepts involved in Christian living, (e.g. conscience, freedom, responsibility, sin) within the context of personal and social moral issues.
RST 249 Advanced Studies in Christian Ethics (3)
An in-depth study of particular topics within the area of moral theology and Christian ethics. (e.g. ethics of globalization, sexual ethics after AIDS, political ethics, etc.) This course may be repeated for credit
STUDIES IN PASTORAL THEOLOGY AND MINISTRY (RST 260 – RST 289)
RST 260 Principles of Youth Ministry (1-2)
Principles of Youth Ministry proposes foundational understandings and principles for effective youth ministry, grounded in pastoral theology, culture psychology, developmental theory, and sociology. (Off-site cooperative course.)
RST 261 Foundations of Catechetics (2-3)
Survey of the historical, theological and philosophical foundations of contemporary Catechetics, together with current issues and practical applications as well as future directions.
RST 262A Fostering the Faith Growth of Youth through Evangelization and Catechesis (1-3)
Evangelization and catechesis explores the foundation of nurturing young and older adolescent faith development and Catholic identity through an integrated approach to faith formation, which incorporates teaching, prayer and liturgy, community life, and justice and service to ministry with adolescents. (Off-site cooperative course.)
RST 262B Fostering the Faith Growth of Youth through Prayer and Worship (1-3)
Prayer and worship investigates the foundational role that Christian worship and sacraments have in fostering the spiritual growth of youth. The goal is to develop a realistic and integrated approach to worship within a comprehensive ministry to youth and practical application in the participant’s pastoral setting. (Off-site cooperative course.)
RST 262C Fostering the Faith Growth of Youth through Justice and Service (1-3)
Justice and service explores the foundations for fostering a justice and service consciousness and spirituality in youth drawn from: Scripture, Catholic Social Teaching, adolescent development, and contemporary catechetical principles. It develops skills for creating integrated, action-learning models for the justice and service component of a comprehensive youth ministry. (Off-site cooperative course)
RST 262D Fostering Faith Growth of Youth through Pastoral Care (1-3)
Pastoral Care explores the principles and methods of caring for young people from various cultures and their families. The course develops an understanding of the breadth and depth of pastoral care, of family systems and adolescent development, and the role that cultural identity plays in the development of adolescents. The goal is two-fold: (a) it aims to promote healthy adolescent development from a pastoral care perspective and (b) to develop preventative interventions for families with adolescents. (Off-site cooperative course.)
RST 263ABC - Advanced Catechetical Ministry (2,2,2)
A three-phase course, which prepares catechetical leaders for ministry to adults. The course consists of three areas: theological formation, ministry specialization, and supervised practicum. (Off-site cooperative course.)
RST 266 - Leadership in Pastoral Ministry (3)
The biblical, theological, ethical and social foundations for Christian leadership in the contemporary Church.
RST 266A - Ministry Leadership Skills (1-3)
The application of leadership theory and skills to various ministerial settings and issues.
RST 267 - Developing Youth Ministry (1-3)
Developing Youth Ministry explores processes and skills for effective leadership in youth ministry. Leaders will be prepared to empower the parish community for ministry with youth through collaboration and leadership development. (Off-site cooperative course.)
RST 269 - Advanced Studies in Pastoral Theology and Ministry (1-3)
An in-depth study of topics and issues in pastoral theology and ministry (e.g. Asian Theology and Ministry in the U.S., inclusive theologies and exclusive communities, etc.) This course may be repeated for credit.
RST 273 - Hispanic Theology and Theologians of the Unites States (3)
A study of Hispanic Theology and its development in the work of major Hispanic theologians in the United States.
RST 279 - Advanced Studies in Hispanic Ministry (1-3)
An in-depth study of topics and issues in U.S. Hispanic Ministry (e.g. cross-border communities and contemporary conflict, the concept of family in Hispanic culture and religion, etc.)
RST 280A - Theories of Pastoral Counseling (3)
An introduction to theories of counseling and psychotherapy as they apply to the pastoral setting.
RST 280B - Issues in Pastoral Counseling (3)
An in-depth study of issues which arise in pastoral counseling.
RST 281 - Pastoral Theology and Ministry (3)
An introduction to the theological, scriptural, and ethical foundations of pastoral ministry; an overview of the nature of ministry in diverse settings; the spiritual formation of the pastoral minister.
RST 282 - Spiritual Direction: Theory and Practice (3)
An introduction to spiritual direction, the nature of spiritual direction and the preparation and role of the spiritual director.
RSP 283 - Spirituality in a Pastoral Context (2)
An examination of spiritualities encountered in ministry.
RST 285 - Parish Management: Theory and Practice (3)
The theory and skills needed by pastoral associates, parish life directors and parish coordinators are studied within the context of pastoral theology and ethics.
RST 287 - Civil and Church Law in Pastoral Ministry (3)
The application of church and civil law in pastoral ministry.
RST 289 - Advanced Studies in Practical Theology (1-3)
An in-depth study of topics and issues in Practical Theology (e.g. conflict resolution in the Church, finances in ministry, etc.)
Research:
RST 290 - Thesis (4)
RST 290A - Thesis Continuation (1)
RST 290B - Thesis Continuation (1)
RST 290C - Thesis Continuation (1)
RST 291 Research Essay (1)
RST 291A Research Essay Continuation (1)
RST 295 - Internship (1-3)
By special pre-arrangement with the Program Director, available by request in any term. Mount St. Mary’s undergraduate norms for Academic Internship apply.
RST 298 - Comprehensives (1)
RST 299 - Independent Study (1-3)
A student may apply for independent study with the approval of a faculty advisor and the program director. Mount St. Mary’s College undergraduate norms for Independent Study apply. No more than six (6) units of independent study may be taken towards the M.A. Degree. Any exception to this is granted by the Director of Graduate Religious Studies with the approval of the Graduate Dean.
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