School of Theology and Spiritual Studies —
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RELS 1080 Understanding the Teachings of the Ascended Masters
Credits: 3
Number of Weeks: 17
Typically offered in: Spring
The ascended masters present an elaborate world view that is both unique and complex, ranging from the human spiritual anatomy to world history to the nature and purpose of the universe. In addition, they offer a practical spiritual path that has been described as a fast track compared to the goals and practices of more traditional religions and spiritual movements.
This course offers an in-depth study of these unique teachings, showing underlying patterns and principles that shed light on the apparent complexity. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the essence and the holistic nature of the ascended masters’ world view, including such topics as cosmology, the nature of God, the purpose of life, the origin of evil and life after death.
Students will acquire a basic vocabulary used in religious studies, which gives them a conceptual framework and a common language for meaningful discussions of these teachings vis-à-vis other worldviews and religions.
We recommend this as the first course for new students.
This course has a strong emphasis on reading. Students will be given a variety of forum discussions, quizzes and written assignments.
Students will be assessed on the following course assignments:
Assignment |
% of Final Grade |
| Forum Posts | 10% |
| Mini Papers | 15% |
| Quizzes | 15% |
| Two Self-Evaluations (pass/fail) | 5% |
| Midterm Paper | 20% |
| Final Exam | 35% |
| TOTAL | 100% |
Hours per week: Students should plan to set aside 10–12 hours per week to complete their weekly course work. However, some students find that due to considerable reading volume, they like to spend more time each week reviewing course work and completing assignments. There are 17 units in this course, with Unit 9 designated as a break week. Students are expected to complete one unit per week.
Textbook Information: RELS 1080 Textbook Information Sheet [PDF]
To take this course, you must be a credit or audit student in the SU Online School of Theology and Spiritual Studies. Click here to learn more about the School of Theology, and it must be a required or elective component of your program of study. Interested in applying to the school? Visit our Application Process page to apply today!
This information is subject to change without notice.
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