About This Course
StraighterLine Introduction to Religious Studies (REL101) is ACE Credit–recommended (course code OOSL-0066) for 3 semester credits. Using Molloy, Experiencing the World’s Religions (8th ed., McGraw-Hill, 2021), you will survey major traditions—including indigenous themes, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, Daoism and Confucianism, Shinto, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—alongside foundational concepts in the academic study of religion: definitions of religion, comparative method and vocabulary, creation and cosmic-order themes, salvation and ethical orientations, ritual, sacred space and symbol, and social and political influence across cultures and history. Ten checkpoints, capstones, and a benchmark build understanding from descriptive overview toward critical comparison; passing typically requires 70% or higher. No prerequisites. Membership required; transcript delivery included. Taught by Michelle Mueller. Confirm transfer with your registrar.
General education & majors
Degree requirements differ by college and catalog year; always verify gen-ed rules and transfer credit with your advisor.
Often satisfies humanities, global studies, or “world religions” breadth requirements; seminary-bound or theology majors should confirm whether a survey course meets denominational prerequisites.
What You'll Learn
- Define religion in academic terms and contrast major world traditions using appropriate comparative vocabulary.
- Interpret central beliefs, practices, and historical developments for the traditions covered in the course.
- Analyze rituals, sacred sites, and symbols as expressions of religious identity and community life.
- Evaluate scholarly approaches to studying religion and apply them to examples of diversity and change.
- Discuss religion’s roles in social, political, and cultural contexts with descriptive accuracy and analytical care.
About StraighterLine
StraighterLine offers ACE-recommended online college courses starting at $79. Credits transfer to 3,000+ colleges and universities nationwide, with guaranteed transfer to 180+ partner schools. Self-paced with 24/7 tutoring and free transcript delivery.
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