An ancient learning method for modern learners
What is the Great Texts Pathway?
The Great Texts Pathway is the continuing of a tradition beginning in ancient Greece, embraced by the Lutheran reformers in Wittenberg, and handed down by the Saxon immigrants who settled in Missouri.
It is a democratic form of education where the professor acts as guide for the student to be formed by their own careful study, reflection, and conversation. It consists of courses from diverse disciplines, but is united by an emphasis on close reading and vigorous discussion.
Classes are taught using the Socratic method, a method where there professor asks the student a series of questions to help the student thoroughly think through each text, and the student, in return, shapes the class with his or her response. For many students this can create a richer, more transformative learning experience than a traditional lecture based format.
- Open to all students, no need to apply
- Explore what works for you. Try one course or embark upon an entire pathway
- Complete 21 credits of Great Text Pathway courses and earn a special designation on your transcript along with a certificate
Qualifying classes
The following is a list of courses that could potentially be offered in the Great Text Pathway format. Not all courses or all sections of courses will be available or offered in this format each semester.
- CCE 120 - Western Thought & Worldview
- CCE 140 - Science and Humanity
- CSC 180 - Systems Integration
- ECON 315 - Macroeconomic Crises in History
- ENG 190 - Intro to English Studies
- ENG 344 - British Literature I
- ENG 465 - Shakespeare
- ENG 475 - Literary Criticism
- GRK 401 - Luke & Septuagint
- GRK 402 - NT & Septuagint
- PHIL 101 - Western Culture and Worldview
- PHIL 201 - Great Texts for Philosophy
- PHIL 250 - Moral Philosophy
- PHIL 333 - Special Topics
- PHIL 334 - Christ and Culture
- PHIL 380 - Philosophy of Language
- PHIL 400 - Ancient Philosophy
- PHIL 410 - Medieval Philosophy
- PHIL 450 - Modern Philosophy
- PHYS 275 - Modern Physics
- REL 100 - Bible
- REL 110 - Christian Faith
- REL 294 - Genesis
- REL 307 - Wisdom of Israel
- REL 310 - Religion in America
- REL 333 - A Survey of Christian Thought
- REL 335 - The Person and Work of Christ
- REL 336 - God, Man, and Creation
- REL 347 - Law/Gosp Life in Church
- REL 351 - Prophets of Israel
- REL 404 - Lutheran Confessions
- REL 440 - Lutheran Worship Theol & Pract
Questions
Please contact Dr. Soenksen via email: Jason.Soenksen@cuw.edu