About This Course

StraighterLine Introduction to Religious Studies (REL101) is ACE Credit–recommended (course code OOSL-0066) for 3 semester credits. Using Molloy, Experiencing the World’s Religions (8th ed., McGraw-Hill, 2021), you will survey major traditions—including indigenous themes, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, Daoism and Confucianism, Shinto, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—alongside foundational concepts in the academic study of religion: definitions of religion, comparative method and vocabulary, creation and cosmic-order themes, salvation and ethical orientations, ritual, sacred space and symbol, and social and political influence across cultures and history. Ten checkpoints, capstones, and a benchmark build understanding from descriptive overview toward critical comparison; passing typically requires 70% or higher. No prerequisites. Membership required; transcript delivery included. Taught by Michelle Mueller. Confirm transfer with your registrar.

General education & majors

Degree requirements differ by college and catalog year; always verify gen-ed rules and transfer credit with your advisor.

Often satisfies humanities, global studies, or “world religions” breadth requirements; seminary-bound or theology majors should confirm whether a survey course meets denominational prerequisites.

What You'll Learn

  • Define religion in academic terms and contrast major world traditions using appropriate comparative vocabulary.
  • Interpret central beliefs, practices, and historical developments for the traditions covered in the course.
  • Analyze rituals, sacred sites, and symbols as expressions of religious identity and community life.
  • Evaluate scholarly approaches to studying religion and apply them to examples of diversity and change.
  • Discuss religion’s roles in social, political, and cultural contexts with descriptive accuracy and analytical care.

About StraighterLine

StraighterLine offers ACE-recommended online college courses starting at $79. Credits transfer to 3,000+ colleges and universities nationwide, with guaranteed transfer to 180+ partner schools. Self-paced with 24/7 tutoring and free transcript delivery.

Accreditation: ACE-Recommended (American Council on Education)
Location: USA
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