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About This Program
The Bachelor of Arts in Religion degree offers students the chance to explore the cultural, political, and spiritual aspects of religion, alongside the religious expression that shapes belief systems. This online religious studies degree employs a multidisciplinary approach, allowing students to analyze religion with critical, thoughtful lenses—examining subjects from the viewpoint of both participant and critic. By studying the history, practices, and beliefs of major religious traditions, students gain a deeper understanding of religion’s influence on human history and modern society.
What You Will Do
- Define the essence of "religion" and evaluate its cultural, political, and social aspects on a global scale.
- Go beyond mere religious expression to examine sacred places, symbols, ethics, and rituals across various religious traditions.
- Understand and assess the concepts that construct a religious worldview, including ideas of creation, good and evil, salvation, and suffering.
- Explore the significant roles of religious life in different societies, revealing their enduring impact through the course of human history.
- Hone your analytical skills by examining the cultural, scientific, and social perspectives within belief systems.
- Discover how faith contributes to a well-rounded worldview, preparing students for diverse career opportunities in sectors like human services and foreign diplomatic services.
Degree at a Glance
Number of Credits
120
Cost Per Credit
$360 | $250*
$324**
$324**
Courses Start Monthly
Online
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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version
Students must choose a concentration for this degree program:
In this concentration, students will focus on the philosophy and teachings of Jesus Christ and his apostles, and the subsequent intellectual and cultural movements and institutions based on Christianity. Includes instruction in Christian sacred scripture, Christian literature and philosophy.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Describe the life and teaching of Jesus Christ and his apostles.
- Apply Christian philosophy to current events.
- Explore foundations of Christian faith and religious devotion based on Bible studies.
- Apply spiritual, philosophical, and literary concepts from a general Christian perspective.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 5351
|
Over the past 2,000 years, the influence of Christianity has grown to impact almost every corner of the world as the largest religion in our time. This course will provide an academic survey of the modern issues that are currently impacting contemporary Christianity through the study of selected themes, movements, religious contexts, theologies, philosophies, and beliefs with attention to its continuing religious and cultural impact. It delves into the study of contemporary Christian issues, including the nature of the Bible, science and evolution, gender and sexuality, world Christianity, persecution, the decline of Christianity in America, church and state, racism, freedom, art and technology, ecology, sports, and institutions.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3635
|
This course acquaints students with the content and major themes of the Old Testament and familiarizes them with important contemporary scholarship which helps to illuminate the biblical documents. Course content explores the socio-political and religious forces that shape the thirty-nine books of the Old Testament and examines the enduring significance of their messages.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3636
|
This course provides a detailed exploration of the historical and religious context, literary styles and theological themes of each of the twenty-seven books of the New Testament, and offers an overview of current New Testament studies.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3638
|
This course explores the languages, canonization, organization and translation of the Bible. The genres of narrative, poetry, wisdom, law, prophecy, gospels, parables, letters, and apocalypse are analyzed in order to thoughtfully read the Bible without the aid of other reference works. This course is foundational to further Biblical study.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3646
|
Jesus Christ has impacted the world unlike any other person in history. Profound and multifaceted, Jesus' life and teachings are explored through the careful study of the history, culture, miracles and teachings presented in the four ancient Gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
In this concentration, students will focus on the theory and practice of providing socially responsive religious and educational leadership within religious non-profit organizations. Students will gain knowledge about serving as administrative non-ordained religious leaders of faith communities and non-profit religious organizations. Based on specific courses selected within the concentration, includes instruction in religious studies, accounting, strategic planning, leadership, business management, and public relations for religious non-profit organizations.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Apply socially responsive theoretical approaches to leading religious non-profit organizations.
- Identify specific business-management practices to sustain a religious non-profit organization.
- Explore and discuss the administrative and organizational needs of a religious non-profit organization, including accounting, strategic planning, business management, and public relations.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 5352
|
This course provides an exploration of belief and practices related to agitation, direct action for social change, and responsible action in the religious setting. This course dives into how identity, power, and suffering shape historical judgments about the intersection of religion and ethics. Close readings of primary sources drawn from autobiographies, letters, sermons, poems, and treatises. Figures may include John Wesley, Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglass, Eberhard Arnold, Martin Luther King Jr., Pauli Murray, Dorothy Day, Thomas Merton, Jean Vanier, Daniel Berrigan, Joan Chittister, Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove, and The Sister Fund.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
Choose 12 credit hours from this section.
Course ID: 4372
|
This course is an overview of accounting concepts used by managers in a business environment intended for non-accounting majors with no accounting background. Topics include accounting concepts, users of accounting information, elements and purpose of financial statements, accrual accounting, internal control and basic financial analysis. Students must have access to Microsoft Word® and Microsoft Excel® software.
Microsoft Word® Microsoft Excel® are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 2887
|
This course is designed to acquaint the student with the terminology, organization, and function of the American business system. The course will give the student a broad background about the contemporary American and global business environments as well as considering different business organizations, management principles and strategies. Topics covered include marketing, finance, personnel, customer relations, production and operations, e-business, world trade ventures, internal information systems and decision-making processes.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4263
|
This course provides students opportunities for analysis, synthesis, and application of critical thinking applied to decision making at all levels in an organization. This course equips students with critical thinking skills to identify problems utilizing rational decision making. Students learn to solve organizational problems and provide strategic direction based on critical thinking.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4861
|
Non-profit entrepreneurship continues to thrive in the 21st century in most major and minor industries. Topics include trustee’s responsibilities, trustee recruitment/termination/development, financing structure, fundraising, financial management, and strategic planning.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4474
|
This course is an overview study of the concepts and techniques in finance for non-financial managers. The course will cover basic financial tools and principles for both small and large business. Topics include financial and securities markets, financial statements and analysis, capital budgeting, management, and decision-making. Students must have access to Microsoft Word® and Microsoft Excel® software.
Microsoft Word® and Microsoft Excel® are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 2931
|
This course is designed to provide students with a solid foundation about leaders, the leadership process, and motivation. Topics include the theories of leadership and motivation, leadership power, leader behavior, leadership characteristics, the role of gender, substitutes for leadership, and dysfunctional leadership. MGMT312 serves as a self-assessment of the student's leadership and motivation skills, knowledge, and attitudes and addresses the questions: Who am I as a leader? What are my most distinguishing leadership traits? What leadership style am I most comfortable being around? How do I influence others, and how do I motivate others?
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3290
|
This course focuses on the principles utilized in the formulation and execution of an organization's strategic plan as it relates to maintaining a competitive advantage. The integration of an organization's mission, stakeholder objectives, vision, and core values is emphasized.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3430
|
This course is an introduction to public relations, covering strategies and tactics used by public relations professionals. The course emphasizes theory and skills needed to perform in the professional arena, including an introduction to research-based public relations campaigns. A major focus of the course for the student is a “walk through” of a public relations campaign that uses a checklist approach.
Course ID: 3437
|
This course explores consumer behavior from determining consumer needs and wants, the process by which they are satisfied, and the environment in which the behavior occurs. The objectives of the course are to introduce the student to concepts developed in psychology, economics, and sociology and their relationship to consumer behavior, to involve the student directly in the study and analysis of consumer behavior, and to develop in students the ability to translate what can be learned into marketing action implications.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Must take the following in this Section:
Course ID: 3733
|
Introduction to Sociology introduces students to the sociological investigation of human interaction and behavior in society. Students will become familiar with the sociological perspective and develop a ‘sociological imagination’ – the ability to see the general in the particular, the new in the familiar, and to observe the impact social forces have on our lives. The course explores environmental, historical, cultural, and organizational influences on our interpersonal relationships and life-patterns within the context of contemporary society. Students will learn how to use sociological concepts, theory and research to think critically about individuals, groups, institutions, and societies in any given situation.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Must take the following in this Section:
Course ID: 5037
|
Information and Digital Literacy is designed to provide students with sustainable and usable skills essential to success in both academic and professional settings. Students will learn best practices to locate and evaluate sources, and effectively communicate using digital literacy to become proficient 21st century learners.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4951
|
Martin Luther King, Jr, said, “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to KEEP MOVING.” Making Writing Relevant is a composition course that will definitely keep you moving. It is not merely a required course; it is the type of course you will want to take because it moves you onto the path to success. Over eight-weeks, we will help you learn the most important components of a successful writer-communicator. We will teach you how to research properly, knowing you will need this skill in every course you take here at APUS and also in interactions in your professional and personal life. We will teach you the formatting style you will use in your field. We will provide a supportive community to strengthen and encourage you, and by the end of this nearly-all-you-need-to-know-about-writing course, you will be able to fly.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 5445
|
Writer Zora Neale Hurston describes research as “formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose." This course will help students hone their research skills, along with all other aspects of academic writing. Students will receive step-by-step guidance through the process while writing about topics they want to explore.
In this course, students will learn how to compose thoughtful research questions, gather and evaluate supporting facts, and create an organized outline for a research paper. Students will also learn how to properly cite sources, avoid plagiarism, flesh out a research paper’s paragraphs with substantive details, and turn in a polished final paper. Students will work within a supportive university community and will receive plentiful, constructive feedback.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3546
|
What is it that we name, what is it that we mean, when we say God? Although we may speak of God as if we are naming some entity or being whose identity we hold in common understanding, as we will see, God is a name used to express a range of concepts and experiences that have varying and often conflicting features. In this class we will examine some of these concepts and descriptions of experiences of the divine. Ultimately, however, this is not a study of God but of man and his attempt to understand his relation within and between God and the world.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3634
|
This introductory course explores the basic nature of religion, both historical and contemporary, and familiarizes the student with a multidisciplinary approach to religious study. Students examine the importance of religious thought and expression, from the viewpoints of both a participant and a critic.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3024
|
This course introduces the major religions of the world with attention to origin, history, beliefs and practices. The course provides a balanced consideration of both Eastern and Western religions. No force has influenced human life and civilization more than religion; no understanding of human affairs, on an individual scale or a global one, can succeed without comprehending it.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3025
|
This course examines the variety of ways in which religion is found in contemporary American experience. Course content focuses on the changes within traditional historical religions as well as new religious groups which have evolved within American society.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5277
|
An introduction to Christianity as a world religion — with origins, history, beliefs, literature, ritual, and practical ethics as points of departure — this course places emphasis on understanding the multiple and complex global interpretations of Christianity as expressed by the great church traditions (including Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Protestant denominations, and traditional churches of the Middle East and Africa) and in regional variations worldwide.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5278
|
This course provides perspectives on death and dying. Students examine how death is beneficial and necessary for evolution. Participants explore the media's impact on mortality. Participants analyze how to communicate death to the living. Students assess the bereavement and burial process. Topics include: communicating death, the feeling of emptiness, the forgetfulness of life, living in the face of death, organ donation, burial, and the other side after death.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5280
|
This is a survey course that will investigate different religions and the techniques they offer to maintain physical and mental well-being. In this process, students will review various religious teachings, the Sufi Dervish tradition, and the Christian teaching of gratitude, Yoga, and Meditation from different religious traditions. We will go over contemporary applications of the religions with particular attention to the cultural, social, and political structuring of their practices.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3639
|
This course is a study of the three primary religions whose origins were in and which are still practiced in the Middle East: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. For each religion, topics include history, culture, beliefs, scriptures and practices. Variations within the religions will be studied in context of their expression in the Middle East. In addition, the relationship of the three in the present day context will be studied, as well the influence of the religions on political and social situations.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3545
|
This course is a study of the role of myth and ritual in historical terms as well as modern myth and ritual developments. Students explore the influence of pervasive myths and rituals in society as they are infused throughout people and religious thought. Students will examine the continued influences of classical, religious and new myths in American popular culture and society today.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Choose 3 credit hours from this section.
Course ID: 3135
|
This course is an introduction to Islam - and its associated civilization - through readings, case studies, projects, and interaction within the classroom. Course content will examine the people and nations that practice this fascinating religion.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5353
|
This course deals with theoretical and practical concerns regarding East Asian Religious Studies. From a comparative viewpoint, the indigenous religions of the geographical regions will be studied along with the historical development and modern form of these religious beliefs and practices and how they interact on the world stage.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5354
|
This is a survey course for students to understand South Asian religions. The course will use primary and secondary texts, videos, and first-person accounts for instruction to generate class discussions. Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism are major religions practiced in South Asia and by their diaspora in the west. This course will invite students to think deeply about different perspectives and how various religions have emerged or accepted teachings from each other to evolve as independent religions. The course covers contemporary applications of the religions with particular attention to the cultural, social, and political structuring of their practices.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
Choose 6 credit hours from this section.
Course ID: 3645
|
This course is a study of the set of philosophical ideals that emphasizes the existence of the human being, the lack of meaning and purpose in life, and the solitude of human existence. The course will cover the existentialist philosophy and its leading historical proponents.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5418
|
This course examines new religious movements and religious cults that span specific times and faith-based perspectives. Its focus is on the development of new religious movements and their growth, as well as the causes of cult formulation, cult leadership, cult purpose, and cult interactions with the outside world. Course content also explores what is meant by the terms "new religious movement," "cult," and "alternative religion," using historical and contemporary examples to illustrate these ideas. (Prerequisite: RELS101)
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3704
|
This course will guide students through a critical and sociological exploration of religion. It will provide them with an opportunity to think about religious experience and religious organizations as a part of a larger social order. It will introduce basic concepts in the sociology of religion. This process involves analyzing the interrelationship of culture, society, and religion; religion and social stratification; religious, economic, and political institutions; social change and religion. There will be a general emphasis on American society and institutions, with global and historical contexts integrated throughout the course. The course is designed with a focus on reading, discussion, field observation and critical writing.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 4941
|
This capstone course is an intensive study of major figure(s) and or movement(s) in philosophic thought, and/or contemporary issues and beliefs in religion and events of particular historical importance to the discipline. Students will integrate knowledge acquired in previous courses into critical analyses of movements, theories and principles that have influenced historical and contemporary thought in philosophy, and the integration of a critical analysis of selected sacred scriptures, collection and review of religious adherents' expressions and experiences, and a synthesis of all research into a final written project. This is a capstone course to be taken after all other Philosophy and Religion courses have been satisfactorily completed. (Prerequisite: Completion of a minimum of 105 hours towards your program)
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/23/26 - 07/31/26 | 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 | Summer 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 04/27/26 - 10/02/26 | 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 | Fall 2026 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 05/25/26 - 10/30/26 | 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 | Fall 2026 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 06/29/26 - 12/04/26 | 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 | Fall 2026 Session D | 8 Week session |
Admission Requirements
- All APU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
- There is no fee to complete the APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
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*Cost Per Credit Hour
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
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