- This course closed on April 30, 2025.
Ebed-Melech University Syllabus
REL 101 – Introduction to World Religions
Term: WD25 March 31 – April 25
Course Duration: [Insert Dates Here]
Credit Hours: 3
Instructor: Dr. Roxanne Kemp, PhD & Dr. Rebekah Smith
Contact: faculty@ebedmelech.ac
Assignment Due Date: Sunday at midnight each week
Grading Scale: 4.0 GPA scale
Welcome to REL 101!
Welcome to Introduction to World Religions at Ebed-Melech University! In this course, you will explore the beliefs, practices, and histories of five major world religions. You’ll develop a deeper understanding of religious diversity and enhance your ability to foster dialogue and mutual respect in real-world contexts. Through comparative writing, critical reflection, project design, and a final presentation, this course is designed to help you apply interfaith insights to both personal growth and community engagement.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the major world religions, exploring their beliefs, practices, and historical contexts. Emphasizing interfaith understanding, students will learn to apply these insights in diverse real-world settings, suitable for introductory-level study in religious diversity and dialogue.
Learning Outcomes
| Learning Outcome | Description |
|---|---|
| Comparative Analysis Skills | Write a 2,000-word comparative essay analyzing the core beliefs and practices of five major world religions. |
| Critical Thinking and Reflection | Evaluate the social and cultural impact of each religion as part of your comparative essay. |
| Project Design and Development | Design an interfaith outreach project promoting understanding and collaboration. |
| Presentation and Communication | Present your project in a clear and engaging way, demonstrating interfaith communication skills. |
Course Schedule and Weekly Breakdown
| Week | Topics | Activities & Assignments |
| Week 1 | Foundations of Religious Studies | Explore definitions and functions of religion; Begin outlining comparative essay; Discussion: The importance of interfaith understanding |
| Week 2 | Major World Religions Overview | Submit 2,000-word comparative essay analyzing five major religions; Quiz on key concepts and traditions |
| Week 3 | Interfaith Dialogue in Practice | Design your interfaith community outreach project (written plan); Peer feedback on project drafts |
| Week 4 | Final Project & Course Reflection | Present your project (video or written); Submit final reflection on what you’ve learned and how it applies to your life and work |
Course Policies
Assignment Deadlines: All assignments are due by Sunday at midnight. Late submissions may impact grades unless prior arrangements are made.
Academic Integrity: Plagiarism or any form of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Proper citations must be used.
Grading Scale:
| Grade | Percentage |
| A | 90-100% (4.0) |
| B | 80-89% (3.0) |
| C | 70-79% (2.0) |
| D | 60-69% (1.0) |
| F | Below 60% (0.0) |
Communication and Support
Faculty are available for academic guidance via email at faculty@ebedmelech.ac. Students are encouraged to participate in weekly discussion sessions in the Lion’s Den, EMU’s discussion space on Discord.
Inspirational Scripture for the Course
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” — Romans 12:18
We look forward to exploring this important subject with you. Welcome to REL 101: Introduction to World Religions!
