Theological education often finds itself closely allied with other disciplines, especially the social sciences.
With this in mind, the Seminary encourages students to take courses in this area either as core electives for
those in the M.A. in Armenian Christian Studies program or as audits for those in the M.Div. program and for members
of the community. M.A. students focusing on Church and Society as their area of concentration may substitute up to
five courses in youth ministry, ministry to the elderly, religious education, or other ministries taken at nearby
seminaries or universities, and have their credits transferred.
CS 101 Social Behavior
This course focuses on the social nature of human behavior and the influence people have on one another. Topics
include self-concept and presentation of self, social perception, attitude formation and change, prejudice and
discrimination, interpersonal relationships, group dynamics, altruism, aggression, organizational behavior, leadership,
cooperation and conflict, and conflict resolution.
CS 201 Sociology of Religion
An examination of the social dimension of religion and the reciprocal influence between church and society.
The course focuses on religion as a social institution, the social factors that influence personal religion, the
dynamics of religious communities, and religion as a force in shaping society.
CS 301 Christian Social Ethics
Using ethical theories in light of basic Christian beliefs, this course examines the church's and individual
Christian's responsibilities in society by investigating the normative guidelines that direct the Christian approach
to life and death issues, social problems, and human rights. Some consideration is given to certain Orthodox views
and Armenian norms and values, especially in the aftermath of the Genocide.
CS 401 Ethnicity in America
The course begins with a survey of the ethnic diversity in America as backdrop for the Armenian situation. The major
focus will then be on Armenians as an ethnic group and its implications for the Armenian experience in North America.
The course explores the dynamics of ethnicity and religion and the role of the Armenian Church in fostering ethnic
identity.
CS 451 Directed Reading in Lay Ministries
Focused reading and research in an area of lay ministry or care, or on the roles and experiences of lay persons
involved in a variety of lay ministries (as distinguished from work by the pastor). Reflection on situations in
Armenian parishes is highly recommended. May be repeated once.
CS 480 Independent Study in Church and Society
Independent and advanced study, presenting or interpreting some specific Armenian situation, question, or theme
and showing the student's progress toward a reflective analysis-for students who have completed basic courses in
the area. May be repeated once.
TAKE A MOMENT TO PRAY for our college students. May God protect them from danger and guide them in the decisions they make. May he fill them with his love and inspire them as they learn and grow.
