History of Christianity (HIS)
HIS 540 History of Christianity I - 3 Units
Examines major historical developments in Christianity from the apostolic era up to the sixteenth-century Reformation. Emphasizes the theological, institutional, cultural, and spiritual formation of the Christian tradition, including the patristic period, ecumenical councils, the emergence of papal government, medieval Christianity, Eastern Christianity, monasticism, and scholasticism. Students engage primary and secondary sources to understand continuity and diversity within Christian belief and practice across historical contexts.
HIS 541 History of Christianity II - 3 Units
Examines the development of Christianity from the Reformation era to the present through engagement with primary and secondary historical sources. Analyzes movements traditionally associated with Europe and North America alongside the emergence of diverse Christian expressions shaped by cultural, social, and political contexts worldwide. Explores theological developments, missionary encounters, indigenous Christian movements, Pentecostal and charismatic traditions, and contemporary global trends. Emphasizes the interconnected nature of Christian history and attends to the varied ways Christian faith has been articulated, practiced, and transformed across cultures.
HIS 620 Topics: Global Church History - 3 Units
Examines topics in the history of Christianity as a global phenomenon, emphasizing its development across diverse cultural, geographic, and historical contexts. Content may include major movements, regional developments, and representative figures shaping the Church's global presence. The course is designed to support focused study on selected periods, regions, or themes within global church history. Repeatable for credit with different focus.
HIS 800 Topics in History of Christianity - 1-3 Units
Provides an opportunity for students to engage critically with emerging issues, debates, and developments within a specific academic discipline. Students explore contemporary topics that shape the Church's witness, theological reflection, and vocational practice in today's world. Emphasis is placed on integrating biblical and theological perspectives with scholarly inquiry, fostering spiritual formation, and cultivating leadership rooted in humility and social responsibility.
HIS 830 Topics: Advanced Historical Figures - 1-3 Units
Advanced study of significant figures in the history of Christianity. This course examines the life, historical context, theological contributions, and enduring influence of one or more individuals whose work has shaped Christian thought, spirituality, mission, or ecclesial life. Attention is given to primary sources, historiographical interpretation, and global reception. Particular topics may vary. Repeatable for credit with different focus. Prerequisite: HIS 541 or doctoral standing.
HIS 840 Topics: Advanced Historical Texts - 1-3 Units
Advanced study of significant texts in the Christian tradition. This course examines selected primary works that have shaped Christian theology, spirituality, worship, and ecclesial life. Offerings may focus on a single text or author, or on a thematic grouping of texts from a particular period, tradition, or global context. Repeatable for credit with different focus. Prerequisite: HIS 541 or doctoral standing.