During the course of the day students gather to discuss different topics from the classes they are taking together. This is a great time to exchange ideas and to stimulate new thoughts.
Areas of Study
Master of Arts in Religious Studies
The purpose of this degree is to enable students to undertake an in-depth study of the Heavenly Doctrines of the New Church - to explore them systematically and in detail with a view to relating the truths of doctrine to various academic, professional, and personal areas. The program is for male and female students not looking to ordination.
This degree is for those who wish to:
- gain a more solid foundation in New Church doctrine for their personal understanding and intellectual development.
- become more effective at communicating the truths of the Heavenly Doctrines to the world.
- become more effective New Church teachers.
- enter more deeply into lay leadership roles in the church.
- pursue further graduate work.
Courses may be taken in the traditional classroom, by conference call, and some are available over the Internet.
A general knowledge of the teachings of the Writings and New Church thought and a liberal arts background are expected. Although background in the sacred languages is not required, any familiarity with Hebrew, Greek, or Latin is beneficial. Being able to communicate clearly and fluently in English, both written and spoken, is essential.
The full course of study may be taken for the degree, or a limited number of courses selected on personal interest may be taken.
The degree program emphasizes theology, provides opportunities to explore some secular areas, and allows a student to develop an integrative thesis. It consists of 8 courses and an integrative thesis equivalent to 2 courses. Of the 8 courses at least 5 are to be taken in the field of theology. Of these, 3 are core courses required of everyone and 2 are electives. The remaining 3 courses can be taken in the fields of theology, education, history, psychology, philosophy, or science as courses are available. (Note: with faculty approval, the thesis can be replaced with two courses and a comprehensive exam.)
DISTANCE LEARNING
An added feature of these courses is that many of them can be taken for credit at a distance. A variety of methods are employed, from tape recorded classes, telephone connections, and communications via the Internet.
To participate students must have access to a computer (PC or MAC) with an Internet connection, and their own Internet address. Students should also have, as a minimum, a full set of the Writings and the Swedenborg Concordance. (NewSearch, a computerized text and search program of the Writings, meets this requirement.)
For those taking courses through distance learning, a minimum residency requirement is one course. This requirement is designed to build a sense of community by enabling students to interact in both an academic and social setting. The requirement can be met by being physically present in any course, including a summer course. Accommodations and exceptions can be made where attendance in a regular class is too much of a hardship.
Application Process for the Master of Arts in Religious Studies Program