Course Descriptions — Integrative Studies
Courses are for 3 credits unless otherwise noted.

IS100 Principles of Writing and Critical Thinking in Theological Interpretation
Faculty
This course introduces students to the guiding principles of critical thinking necessary for articulating a theological argument in an academic paper. Students are introduced to the expository writing principles and processes necessary for writing and developing skills in generating ideas, organizing and developing thoughts, analyzing and revising texts, and handling the mechanics of writing. The main emphasis is on how various expository methods of organizing essays help writers to clearly present both informational and abstract ideas. Paper topics will be drawn from theological texts. 0 credits
No prerequisites

IS151 Theological Interpretation: God, Community, and Transformation
Faculty (rotating teams of two instructors)
This course serves as an introduction to the approach to theological thinking and learning that is fundamental to the ethos and pedagogy of United. United uses a theological model of education that attends seriously to the pluralistic contexts in which theology is done - to the person doing the theology, to the resources of the students’ traditions, and to their/our deepest theological values/norms (e.g., justice, love, hope, liberation). Focus on one theme throughout the course is intended to provide a sharpened and integrated learning experience for the student’s beginning year. The course will seek to engage and analyze different expressions of religious community, look at perspectives on the church in relation to the year’s theme, and visit ministry contexts in the larger Twin Cities area.
No prerequisites


IS152 Integration of Ministry and Local Theologies
Faculty (rotating teams of two instructors)
Building upon the focus of studies from IS151, this integrative seminar adds an intentional multicultural contextual component. In partnership with community leaders and student colleagues, we will participate in the life of local neighborhoods through contextual placements in social ministry settings. In addition to regular class meetings, students spend five hours per week in their contextual placements. Classes generally meet in the neighborhoods. Using critical socio-theologically narrative methods, we interrogate community issues and assets, ministerial/leadership practices, and ecclesiological considerations for social justice. Students will explore vocational directions while learning skills for ministerial discernment and resources for spiritual formation.
Prerequisites: IS151 and one biblical studies course

IS261 Final M.A.R.L. Integrative Seminar
This course is to be taken the final spring term of studies in order to integrate the student’s comprehensive understanding of religious leadership. The seminar includes three primary components: (1) Identity Formation - each student will be required to construct a “vocational credo” as to their distinct identity and calling; (2) Theological Integration - each student will be expected to articulate the theological framework out of which they do ministry and function as religious leaders in specific contexts; and (3) Specialized Projects - each student will create a major project in their area of specialization (e.g., Christian Education, church administration, pastoral care).
Prerequisites: IS151, IS152, CS251

IS351 Final M.Div. Integrative Seminar
The purpose of this seminar, to be taken in the student’s final year, is to assist the student in integrating course work, formational activities, and contextual experiences into a clear statement of ministry. In addition, each student will develop a case study that presents issues around their understanding of ministry, which will be peer reviewed and explored. Issues around spiritual formation in various contexts of ministry will also be addressed.
Prerequisites: CS252, TR105