Online Class: World Religions 101

Learn about the founders, the history and essential teachings of each of these major religions: Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Islam, Confucianism, and Taoism, plus brief descriptions of other religions and religious practices.

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9

Lessons
27

Exams &
Assignments
3,032

Students
have taken this course
9

Hours
average time
0.9

CEUs

Course Description

World Religions 101 provides a clear and concise introduction to the major world religions. You'll learn about the people, places, practices and philosophies shaping today's events. Some religions might be familiar, some strange and some you may never have heard about but why not discover karma, nirvana, yin and yang and the Holy Trinity?

Although many of us think of religion as a belief system practiced through faith, obedience, prayer and worship, you'll find that some religions are more than just a belief in a deity, but an entire philosophy and way of life.

Explore the religions that have shaped history, civilizations and your next door neighbors views. You will learn about the founders, the history and essential teachings of each of these major religions: Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Islam, Confucianism, and Taoism, plus brief descriptions of other religions and religious practices.

Why not join this self-paced course and learn about the diverse spiritual paths humanity has taken? Everyone is welcome!

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Course Motivation

In our modern, secular Western society, where it seems as though more and more emphasis is placed on objective knowledge and empirical (scientific) forms of understanding the world, some may not have had an opportunity to examine the very nature of religion itself. Since this concept is basic to understanding the other ideas presented later in this course, the idea of religion and its nature will be examined here before proceeding on to present the major religions of the world.

Definitions of Terms: Philosophy, Religion, and World View

There are three key terms that will be introduced and used throughout this course, namely: philosophy, religion, and world view. These concepts are valuable conceptual frameworks by which each of the world's religions can be better examined and understood. Therefore, it is important to understand rudimentary definitions of each, how they are alike, and how they differ from each other, before continuing.

Philosophy

The word philosophy is derived from the combination of two Greek root words philos (meaning love) and Sophia (meaning wisdom). Thus, the term literally means "the love of wisdom". This definition, though literally correct, lacks something to be desired. What, after all, is wisdom? According to the ancient Greeks, wisdom deals with virtue, the quest for true knowledge and understanding, and the elimination of all false opinions.

If this still seems a bit esoteric or confusing, then perhaps a more straightforward definition is in order. Put another way, philosophy is a field of study in which people question, and create theories about, the nature of reality. Overall, it boils down to one essential question, "What is reality?" Philosophy is humankind's attempt to answer this question and to gain a better understanding of the Universe in which we live and how that universe can best be known and understood (if at all). The traditions of the Eastern world and the Western world are quite different in their theories of the nature of the world and how it functions. This fundamental difference in viewpoint makes this a major division in philosophical thought.

Course Structure

Bearing these definitions in mind, then, each of the religions in this course (with the exception of the brief entries in Lesson 9), will follow a standardized format in order to provide a more uniform examination of each. This format is as follows:

Introduction

A short introduction explaining the current influence of the religion in the world.

History

This section will contain abbreviated information on the historical development of the religion. Information contained here will include prominent figures, movements, and ideas, which led to the formation and shaped the practice of the belief system in question.

Tenets of Belief

The underlying philosophies and guiding principles that are major features of the religion. In short, the essence of the religion or philosophy is examined in this section.

Symbols and Holy Writ

The iconic symbols and holy texts (scriptures), if applicable, will be examined in this section.

Daily Practice

The way in which adherents of the faith in question go about their daily lives as practitioners of the religion or philosophy.

Branches, Divisions, and Variations

Often times, the various religious traditions will have a number of sub-religions or denominational differences in the way the belief system is approached or practiced. This section will highlight some of the more prominent differences within the religion at hand.

This course will examine each of the following religious traditions in alphabetical order, and then, using the structure presented here: Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Taoism. The final lesson of this course will examine several additional, albeit lesser religious movements currently practiced in the world. Those religions will also be presented in alphabetical order and will follow a similar, but highly abbreviated, version of the format used for the major belief systems.

Are you looking for ways to improve your understanding of our world and its cultures?

If so, understanding and appreciating the different world religions is a necessity. Spirituality and religion is a fundamental part of the human experience, often defining cultures and establishing social norms.

This course will introduce you to the religions of the world. Both the major ones, with which you are likely familiar, and the smaller ones, with which you may be completely unfamiliar. Learning about how different people approach religion and spirituality will help you understand their cultures and beliefs and may help strengthen and expand your personal beliefs and faith.

As you complete the course lessons, you will learn about Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Islam, Confucianism, Taoism, and several other religions and religious practices. Most importantly, you will gain an appreciation for the impact religion can have on our lives and our world.

With a completely flexible schedule and no other materials to buy, World Religions 101 is the ideal way to broaden your horizons in the comfort of your own home. All you need is a high school reading level and an open and inquisitive mind!

Enrollment is ongoing and you can get started at your convenience. So, don’t delay! Sign up today for World Religions 101 and begin your journey towards enlightenment!

Religion impacts our lives and our world in many ways, both big and small. Religion is a part of our shared cultural history, shaping the way we see the world and the people in it. It seems that almost all the major news events in the world have a religious underpinning. Thus, learning to understand and appreciate the religious beliefs and practices of others can help each of us become a more enlightened global citizen.

And now, it has never been easier to learn about the religions of the world. In World Religions 101, this introductory class will teach you the basics of many of the world's major and minor religions. You will learn the core beliefs of the major religions, their guiding principles and practices, and their historical foundations. In addition, you will achieve a greater appreciation of the impact the different religions have on people and cultures. Many religions are more than just a belief system; they are an entire philosophy and way of life.

This course has created a one-stop guide to the religions of the world. He has designed nine lessons that you will complete in the course of your study:

Lesson 1: An Introduction to the Religious Experience
Lesson 2: Buddhism
Lesson 3: Christianity
Lesson 4: Confucianism
Lesson 5: Hinduism
Lesson 6: Islam
Lesson 7: Judaism
Lesson 8: Taoism
Lesson 9: Other Religions & Religious Movements

As you can see, this course includes a comprehensive introduction of seven of the world's major religions (Lessons 2 through 8). In addition, Lessons 1 and 9 will provide you with an overview of the religious experience and a discussion of some smaller and less well-known religions and religious movements.

At the end of each lesson, you will complete a lesson review quiz and one or two assignments. A score of 70% or better will earn you a passing grade.

It's important to remember that you don't need any prior religious training to sign up for this course. All you need is a high school reading level and an eagerness to learn! And, with no additional materials to buy, the opportunity has never been better!

This course's lessons are all comprehensive, and include all the material you need and web links to outside references. In addition, if you ever run into any difficulty or you need to discuss course material, you can interact with the instructor via e-mail and you can participate in the online discussions with your classmates.

The benefits of completing this course are many. You will find that you will have a better appreciation and understanding of the world around you. You will be a more informed world citizen and will be better able to understand the world news. And, most importantly, you will be a better-rounded human being and a better neighbor. In today's increasingly diverse world, you will be able to relate to and understand the beliefs of your friends and neighbors, many of whom likely have religious beliefs that our different from your own.

Enrollment is always open, so don't wait! Sign up today for World Religions 101 and enhance your spiritual understanding!

Completely Online
Self-Paced
Printable Lessons
Full HD Video
6 Months to Complete
24/7 Availability
Start Anytime
PC & Mac Compatible
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Accredited CEUs

Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:

"Extraordinarily Helpful"

(1,426 votes)

Lesson 1. An Introduction to the Religious Experience

In this first lesson we will introduce the many different religions of the world by first defining the terms of philosophy, worldview, and religion. Additional lesson topics: Religion and Identity; Secular Humanism; Liberal Believers; World Religions 130 Total Points

Lesson 1 Video A
Lesson 1 Video B : Introduction Discussion
Lesson discussions: World Religions (a); World Religions (b); Reasons for Taking this Course
Complete: Lesson 1 Assignment: Introduce Yourself
Complete Assignment: Differing views of the New and Old Testament
Complete Assignment: Why do Humans have Religion?
Assessment: Lesson 1 Quiz: Introduction to World Religions

Lesson 2: Buddhism

This lesson will focus on the religion of Buddhism. Topics will include the history, the tenets and beliefs, the symbols, daily practice, and branches of Buddhism. 80 Total Points

Lesson 2 Video A
Lesson 2 Video B : Lesson Discussion
Complete: Lesson 2: Assignment
Complete Assignment: Is Buddhism Relevant Today?
Assessment: Lesson 2 Quiz: Buddhism

Lesson 3. Christianity

This lesson will focus on the religion of Christianity. Topics will include the history, the tenets and beliefs, the symbols, daily practice, and branches of Christianity (due in part to the Protestant Reformation). Additional lesson topics: History of Christianity 78 Total Points

Lesson 3 Video A
Lesson 3 Video B : Lesson Discussion
Complete: Lesson 3: Assignment
Complete Assignment: Protestant Reformation
Assessment: Lesson 3 Quiz: Christianity

Lesson 4. Confucianism

This lesson will focus on the religion and philosophy of Confucianism. Topics will include the history, the tenets and beliefs, the symbols, daily practice, and branches of Confucianism. 58 Total Points

Lesson 4 Video A
Lesson 4 Video B : Lesson Discussion
Complete: Lesson 4: Assignment
Complete Assignment: Is Confucianism a Religion?
Assessment: Lesson 4 Quiz: Confucianism

Lesson 5. Hinduism

This lesson will focus on the religion and philosophy of Hinduism. Topics will include the history, the tenets and beliefs, the symbols, daily practice, and branches of Hinduism. 60 Total Points

Lesson 5 Video A
Lesson 5 Video B : Lesson Discussion
Complete: Lesson 5: Assignment
Complete Assignment: Is Hinduism Growing?
Assessment: Lesson 5 Quiz: Hinduism

Lesson 6. Islam

This lesson will focus on the religion of Islam. Topics will include the history, the tenets and beliefs, the symbols, daily practice, and branches of Islam. 110 Total Points

Lesson 6 Video A
Lesson 6 Video B : Lesson Discussion
Complete: Lesson 6: Assignment
Complete Assignment: Muslim Growth
Assessment: Lesson 6 Quiz: Islam

Lesson 7. Judaism

This lesson will focus on the religion of Judaism. Topics will include the history, the tenets and beliefs, the symbols, daily practice, and branches of Judaism. Additional lesson topics: Jews come to America 80 Total Points

Lesson 7 Video A
Lesson 7 Video B : Lesson Discussion
Complete: Lesson 7: Assignment
Complete Assignment: Differences between Judaism and Christianity
Assessment: Lesson 7 Quiz: Judaism

Lesson 8. Taoism

This lesson will focus on the religion of Taoism. Topics will include the history, the tenets and beliefs, the symbols, daily practice, and branches of Taoism. Additional lesson topics: Taoist Life 60 Total Points

Lesson 8 Video A
Lesson 8 Video B : Lesson Discussion
Complete: Lesson 8: Assignment
Complete Assignment: What is up with Taoism?
Assessment: Lesson 8 Quiz: Taoism

Lesson 9. Other Religions and Religious Movements

This lesson will focus other religions that play a role in the world today. Additional lesson topics: Baha'I; New Age Religions 38 Total Points

Lesson 9 Video A
Lesson 9 Video B : Lesson Discussion
Lesson discussions: Course Completion Poll: Your Thoughts; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
Complete Assignment: What is Wicca?
Assessment: Lesson 9 Quiz: Other Religions & Religious Movements

694

Total Course Points

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:

Summarize Buddhism.
Summarize Christianity.
Summarize Confucianism.
Summarize Hinduism.
Summarize Islam.
Summarize Judaism.
Summarize Taoism.
Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.

Additional Course Information

Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online

View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media

Course Title: World Religions 101

Course Number: 7550450

Lessons Rating: 4.6 / 5 Stars (1,426 votes)

Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries

Category:

UniversalClass.com > History > Religious Studies

Availability: This course is online and available in all 50 states including: California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Texas.

Last Updated: April 2023

Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class

CEU Value: 0.9 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)

CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).

Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.

Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams

Instructor: Christopher McKenna

Syllabus: View Syllabus

Course Fee: $95.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

"I have long wanted to learn and better understand world religions and how they have progressed to modern day and how it has related to man and his societies. I feel I got that from this course...but more over...I felt that Mac had done an excellent job in helping me understand all faiths and how they actually have similarities and their differences and why. I feel I got more out of this course then I had intended. Great job guys." -- Michael M.
"This course was great fun for me, and gave me a chance to be a student again for a while and to learn a great deal. Professor McKenna was very knowledgeable, approachable and fair, and has a great sense of humor!" -- Kate D.
"The instructor is very dedicated to his classroom studies. He provides additional videos that he produces for each lesson. I always enjoy taking his courses and always learn a lot from his videos and the assignments for each lesson." -- Louise S.
"I have said many times that I like learning with this instructor. He is challenging while also approachable. Our interactions are thought provoking and interesting." -- Theresa B.
"He is very personable and I enjoyed conversing with him about the different subjects of the course." -- Marshall G.
"He is really great and glad he teaches so much. He is so informational." -- Anna D.
"A very good delivery and execution. I learned a lot in this class." -- Jessie D.
"The course and instructor were both great." -- Shari G.
"Thanks for making this kind of course work available to those of us at home." -- Margaret T.
"The course layout was very rganized. The requirements for each lesson were very clear and detailed. The assignments were relevant to add useful information to one's everyday knowledge. Thanks...." -- Margaret T.