Religious Studies Courses and Certifications

Death, Dying, and the Afterlife: Lessons from World Cultures

69 ratings at The Great Courses Plus

Explore how great faiths, philosophies, and cultures all over the world perceive death (and life), guided by a religion scholar and award-winning professor.

• The Great Courses Plus
• 12 hours 34 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Trial Available

Biblical Poetry: Psalms and Song of Songs - Lecture 21

1 review

Explore biblical poetry, focusing on Psalms and Song of Songs. Delve into the Writings section, examining themes of suffering and evil through canonical criticism and analysis of Ecclesiastes and Psalms.

• YouTube
• 49 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

The Acts of Paul and Thecla: Asceticism and Female Heroism in Early Christianity - Lecture 20

1 review

Explore the Acts of Paul and Thecla, examining its ascetic message, cultural context, and potential feminist interpretation through the lens of early Christian literature and Greco-Roman novels.

• YouTube
• 49 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Asian Religions

Explore the ancient religious and philosophical traditions of Asia, understanding their historical significance, global influence, and relevance in today's interconnected world.

• Swayam
• 6 weeks
• On-Demand
• Free Online Course

Introduction to Jainism

Explore the ancient Indian philosophy of Jainism, from its origins and core principles to its global influence, focusing on nonviolence, karma theory, and ethical practices.

• Swayam
• 6 weeks
• On-Demand
• Free Online Course

The Byzantine icon

4 ratings at OpenLearn

This course is a short journey into the rich world of Byzantine artistic production via its most illustrious representative – the icon.

• OpenLearn
• 8 hours
• On-Demand
• Free Certificate

Literary Prophecy: Micah, Zephaniah, Nahum, Habakkuk, and Jeremiah - Lecture 18

Explore literary prophecy in the Old Testament, examining Micah, Zephaniah, Nahum, Habakkuk, and Jeremiah. Analyze their structures, themes, and unique features, gaining insights into ancient Hebrew prophetic literature.

• YouTube
• 49 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Responses to Suffering and Evil - Lamentations and Wisdom Literature - Lecture 20

Explore Lamentations and Wisdom Literature in the Hebrew Bible, examining divine justice, suffering, and morality through Proverbs, Job, and Ecclesiastes. Gain insights into ancient Near Eastern wisdom traditions.

• YouTube
• 53 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

The Restoration: Chronicles, Ezra and Nehemiah - Lecture 22

Explore biblical poetry, Song of Songs, and post-exilic Jewish history through Chronicles, Ezra, and Nehemiah. Examine religious reforms, covenant renewal, and social changes during the Persian-era restoration of Judah.

• YouTube
• 49 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Religion, Conflict and Peace

10 reviews

Explore the diverse and complex roles that religions play in both promoting and mitigating violence.

• edX
• 8 weeks, 4-8 hours a week
• On-Demand
• Free Online Course (Audit)

Theo-Humanism: God's Ways in Today's World

10 reviews

Explore how human experiences provide insight into God's ways, combining ancient religious writings with modern knowledge to engage in scholarly theological reflection.

• edX
• 12 weeks, 3-5 hours a week
• On-Demand
• Free Online Course (Audit)

Wondrium

The Apocryphal Jesus - The Cult of Mary

2 reviews

Explore Mary's evolution in early Christian apocrypha, from her portrayal in canonical gospels to her elevated status as leader among saints, uncovering her unique role in Christianity.

• YouTube
• 32 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Deciphering Secrets: Unlocking the Manuscripts of Medieval Toledo (Spain)

12 reviews

Explore the medieval city of Toledo (Spain) and assess its history of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim religious and cultural coexistence.

• edX
• 7 weeks, 2-3 hours a week
• On-Demand
• Free Online Course (Audit)

Gresham College

What is Modern Paganism?

Explore modern Paganism's traditions, unique aspects, and relationship to ancient practices. Gain insights into its commonalities, differences from other religions, and relevance in today's world.

• YouTube
• 45 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Gresham College

Origins of Modern Paganism in Victorian and Edwardian Eras

Explore the evolution of Modern Paganism from Victorian times, examining how perceptions shifted from viewing ancient pagan practices as primitive to celebrating their artistic and cultural contributions.

• YouTube
• 47 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video