It emphasizes critical inquiry, dialogue, and mindful reflection, encouraging students to develop their own understanding of the sacred and their place in the world.

Objectives:

Equip students with a broad knowledge of diverse religious traditions.
Foster critical thinking and analytical skills for interpreting religious texts and practices.
Encourage respectful dialogue and engagement with different perspectives.
Enable students to articulate their own understanding of faith and ethics.
Help students apply ethical principles to contemporary issues of social justice.

Program Description:

Lakeland's Religion program is rooted in the Christian theological tradition while acknowledging the value and diversity of other religious faiths. The program offers a range of courses that explore:

History and development of various religious traditions
Theological concepts and philosophical ideas
Ethical principles and their application to social issues
Interfaith dialogue and understanding
Critical analysis of religious texts and practices

Outline:

The Religion program features a flexible curriculum that allows students to tailor their studies to their interests.

Course Schedule:

Introduction to the Study of Religion
Christian Origins and Development
World Religions
Islam and the West
Religion and Social Justice
Religion and Science
Senior Seminar in Religion

Individual Modules:

Each module in the program focuses on a specific theme or tradition, providing students with in-depth knowledge of the subject. Some examples of modules include:

World Religions: Hinduism - This module introduces students to the history, beliefs, and practices of Hinduism, including its diverse philosophies and expressions.
Religion and Modernity - This module explores the complex relationship between religion and modernity, examining the impact of secularism, globalization, and technological advancements.

Assessment:

The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

Essays and research papers
Class presentations and discussions
Examinations
Demonstrate critical thinking and analytical skills
Apply knowledge of religious traditions to contemporary issues
Articulate their own understanding of faith and ethics
Participate in respectful and informed dialogue

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

Lakeland's Religion program employs a variety of teaching methods to engage students, including:

Lectures and discussions
Case studies and simulations
Field trips and guest speakers
Group projects and presentations

Faculty:

The program boasts faculty with expertise in various religious traditions, theological perspectives, and ethical approaches. They are dedicated to creating a supportive learning environment that fosters intellectual growth and personal reflection.

Unique Approaches:

The program incorporates unique approaches such as:

Emphasis on interfaith dialogue and understanding
Engaging with ethical issues through a social justice lens
Encouraging critical reflection on personal beliefs and values

Careers:

Graduates of the Religion program pursue diverse career paths in fields such as:

Ministry and religious leadership
Teaching and education
Non-profit and social service organizations
Counseling and pastoral care
Interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding
Journalism and communications

Other:

Ulrich Center for Faith, Ethics, and Justice: This center offers students opportunities to engage with leading scholars and participate in thought-provoking discussions on religious and ethical issues.
Cooperative Education: Students can gain practical experience through paid internships and work placements, earning academic credit and building their resume.
Scholarships: The Ulrich Scholars Program provides scholarships to students with a strong interest in exploring the intersections of faith, ethics, and social justice.
Global Learning: The program encourages study abroad opportunities to broaden students' cultural perspectives and understanding of diverse religious traditions.

Religion Program