Department of Oriental Studies and Comparative Religions
Historical Background
The Oriental Studies Department fills a unique need in the region–scholars rooted in the theological, cultural, historical, and linguistic traditions of the Orient. The program focuses on knowing the Church of the East, coupled with the many religions and traditions that form the milieu in which it developed, thrived, and continues today. Students leave the program with a distinct knowledge of Eastern theology and a deeper appreciation for the treasures of the East, theologically and otherwise.
The Department of Oriental Studies is dedicated to delivering a transformative education rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition. It seeks to inspire critical thinking, ethical leadership, and a profound understanding of Oriental religions, cultural heritage, and academic rigor. By cultivating an inclusive environment that welcomes students of all faiths, the department aims to empower students to address contemporary challenges with insight, compassion, and a commitment to the common good, thereby upholding human dignity.
To establish a distinguished center for academic excellence, fostering a profound comprehension of the vibrant cultural, historical, and theological Oriental traditions. Rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, our vision is to build a community of curious learners and compassionate leaders who cherish the rich heritage of Oriental traditions. Through scholarly exploration with a deep commitment to interfaith understanding, the department aspires to promote mutual respect, advance knowledge that bridges diverse religious and cultural communities, and the advancement of human dignity.
- Analyze the historical and theological foundations of major Oriental and comparative religious traditions.
- Look at religious texts and traditions through a critical lens, understanding the cultures and histories behind them.
- Demonstrate ability in relevant languages, such as Aramaic, Greek, or Hebrew, for theological and historical studies.
- Engage in interfaith conversation with sensitivity and respect for diverse perspectives.
- Conduct independent research using proper methodologies in Oriental studies and comparative religions.
- Apply ethical reasoning to contemporary issues in theology, religion, and society.
- Utilize their knowledge and skills to address societal challenges, reflecting the values of human dignity and social responsibility rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition; advocate for a better world.
- Communicate effectively in both written and oral forms, presenting complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
Students in the Oriental Studies Department approach all aspects of the Orient through historical, Biblical, cross-cultural, and varied religious traditions. The program instills research skills that broaden students’ abilities to assess modern culture in light of the past and confirms intellectual rigor in practical experience. Students must embrace archaeology and field work to establish their competence in the field and supplement their writing and research. Further emphasis on preservation supports regional historical efforts and completes the practical and theoretical education CUE offers.
First Stage
| First term | M Code | Module Title | ECTS |
| 1 | OS1101 | Ancient Civilizations in Mesopotamia | 6.00 |
| 2 | OS1102 | Introduction to Philosophy | 6.00 |
| 3 | OS1103 | Biblical Studies I | 6.00 |
| 4 | OS1104 | Kurdistan Studies | 4.00 |
| 5 | OS1105 | Academic Writing and Research Skills | 4.00 |
| 6 | OS1106 | General English | 4.00 |
| Total | 30.00 | ||
| Second term | M Code | Module Title | ECTS |
| 1 | OS1201 | History and Geography of Christianity in Kurdistan | 6.00 |
| 2 | OS1202 | Computer skills | 5.00 |
| 3 | OS1203 | Biblical Studies II | 6.00 |
| 4 | OS1204 | Introduction to Christian Morality | 6.00 |
| 5 | OS1205 | Religions: Mesopotamian Mythology and Religions | 3.00 |
| 6 | OS1206 | English Language for Theology | 4.00 |
| Total | 30.00 | ||
Second Stage
| First term | M Code | Module Title | ECTS |
| 1 | OS2301 | Aramaic Language I | 6.00 |
| 2 | OS2302 | History of the Church of the East I | 6.00 |
| 3 | OS2303 | Old Testament Studies I | 6.00 |
| 4 | OS2304 | Characteristics of the Theology and Spirituality of the Church of the East I | 6.00 |
| 5 | OS2305 | Religions: Judaism | 3.00 |
| 6 | OS2306 | Elective | 3.00 |
| Total | 30.00 | ||
| Second term | M Code | Module Title | ECTS |
| 1 | OS2401 | History of the Church of the East II | 6.00 |
| 2 | OS2402 | Old Testament Studies II | 6.00 |
| 3 | OS2403 | Characteristics of the Theology and Spirituality of the Church of the East II | 6.00 |
| 4 | OS2404 | Canon Law of the Church of the East I | 6.00 |
| 5 | OS2405 | Religions: Islam | 6.00 |
| Total | 30.00 | ||
Third Stage
| First term | M Code | Module Title | ECTS |
| 1 | OS3501 | Aramaic Language II | 6.00 |
| 2 | OS3502 | New Testament I | 6.00 |
| 3 | OS3503 | Catholic Social Teaching I | 6.00 |
| 4 | OS3504 | Patristic Theology I | 6.00 |
| 5 | OS3505 | Liturgy of the Church of the East I | 3.00 |
| 6 | OS3506 | Elective | 3.00 |
| Total | 30.00 | ||
| Second term | M Code | Module Title | ECTS |
| 1 | OS3601 | History of the Church of the East II | 6.00 |
| 2 | OS3602 | New Testament II | 6.00 |
| 3 | OS3603 | Catholic Social Teaching II | 6.00 |
| 4 | OS3604 | Canon Law of the Church of the East II | 6.00 |
| 5 | OS3605 | Religions: Yazdi, Zardishti, Mandaaya | 6.00 |
| Total | 30.00 | ||
Fourth Stage
| First term | M Code | Module Title | ECTS |
| 1 | OS4701 | Oriental Interpretation on the Holy Bible (Pshetta) | 6.00 |
| 2 | OS4702 | Modern Theologians | 6.00 |
| 3 | OS4703 | Patristic Theology II | 6.00 |
| 4 | OS4704 | Liturgy of the Church of the East II | 3.00 |
| 5 | OS4705 | Research Methodologies in Oriental Studies | 3.00 |
| 6 | OS4706 | Interfaith Dialogue: Christianity and Islam | 6.00 |
| Total | 30.00 | ||
| Second term | M Code | Module Title | ECTS |
| 1 | OS4801 | Thesis in Oriental Studies | 12.00 |
| 2 | OS4802 | Seminar: Contemporary Issues in Theology | 6.00 |
| 3 | OS4803 | Internship/Fieldwork in Mesopotamian Studies | 3.00 |
| 4 | OS4804 | Capstone Course: Integration of Theology and Philosophy | 6.00 |
| 5 | OS4805 | Monastic Movement in the Church of the East | 3.00 |
| Total | 30.00 | ||