This course explores Christian approaches to the question of God in terms of Christianity's key theological affirmations. In the 21st century humans are still asking questions of and about God, and probing the meaning of human existence. This course explores the big questions and looks at the way Christians through the ages have been challenged by and responded to them. Students will study the intellectual and religious ideas that have influenced Christian practice and belief and helped shape Western culture. However, if you think Christianity has worked out all the answers, prepare to be surprised.

Lectures: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 9am, weekly seminars (choice of times)

None

Coursework: one 1500 word essay (50%)

Examination: one 90 minute exam (50%)

This course will provide the opportunity to:

■ approach the question of God from the perspective of Christianity in order to examine the key theological affirmations of Christianity and to understand them as part of a human quest for meaning 

■ develop an appropriate knowledge and understanding of the historical development of Christianity in terms of key events, foundational figures and central doctrines.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the development and expression of the central doctrinal beliefs of Christianity

■ locate these developments within a historical timeframe and point to the key theologians who have shaped Christianity

■ indicate and discuss areas of historic and contemporary doctrinal disagreement within Christianity

■ write accurately, analytically and evaluatively about the elements of Christianity covered in the course

■ understand and evaluate primary source materials relating to Christian theology

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.