2013-2014 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Religion and Philosophy
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Walter C. Bouzard, Chair; Ronald G. Alexander; Bonita R. Bock; Nelson C. Bock; Brian C. Jones; Judith A. Jones; Kathryn A. Kleinhans; Jennifer M. McBride; Peter T. Nash; Kunihiko Terasawa
Wartburg College understands itself as a community of faith and learning. Course work in religion helps students understand the Christian heritage, increase ethical sensitivity, gain understanding of and respect for other religions, and explore the relation between faith and life. The principal mission of philosophy is to foster in its practitioners a critical, reflective attitude. Thus, it provides students with tools to broaden narrow perspectives and analyze values, ideologies, and commitments.
During May Term, students may complete traditional courses on campus, participate in field experiences in a parish or church-related agency, take part in a Denver, Colo. immersion, visit Reformation lands, or participate in an archaeological dig.
The Religion and Philosophy Department offers several majors, minors, concentrations, and endorsements. Students are also encouraged to consider religion or philosophy as a second major to complement another area of academic study.
The goals of the religion program at Wartburg College are to equip students:
- To acquire, through the use of appropriate scholarly tools and methods, a critical understanding of the content of the Old and New Testament writings and the historical contexts from which they emerged.
- To examine the formative influence of the biblical tradition upon Western civilization and to reflect on its significance for contemporary life.
- To develop a critical understanding of the interrelationship among religious beliefs, institutions, and practices in changing historical contexts.
- To gain appreciation and respect for the common human quest for religious meaning, informed by the study of multiple religious traditions.
- To develop the ability to analyze scriptural, historical, and theological texts.
- To identify and articulate their own religious and/or ethical values and to engage in constructive dialogue with others whose values may differ.
- To develop moral reasoning skills and the ability to analyze issues using basic elements of ethical theory.
- To integrate their religious and/or ethical values within a chosen course of study and a chosen vocational field.
In addition to these, the goals of the various church vocations concentrations are for students:
- To demonstrate successful completion of a program of contextual education within the chosen concentration, through internships and/or immersion experiences.
- To be appropriately prepared for employment in their chosen area of ministry or for admission into graduate or professional schools.
- To develop qualities of respect, engagement, and thoughtfulness appropriate for religious leadership in a pluralistic society.
Programs
Christian Education
For additional information on teaching majors and endorsements, see Education Department listings.
Church Music
See Music .
Global Service Emphasis
Students complete the intercultural studies minor in addition to the religion major.
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