Talk to an advisor (9 AM-9 PM EST): 866-442-6062

Talk to an advisor (9 AM-9 PM EST): 866-925-2803

On today's campuses, students are expanding their education with new and  

unique college courses

  that combine core classes and real-life skills -- including sports.

One such class, "Spirituality of Running," was introduced to the Merrimack College (Andover, MA) course list this past fall. Taught by Dr. Warren Kay, who chairs the department of religious and theological studies and coaches men's and women's cross country, this unique college course focuses on how running, the oldest of sports, has historically been understood as a spiritual experience. "Running has always been a way to make a spiritual connection for me," shares Dr. Kay. "[It] opens so many other doors than physical health, which we can explore in this class."

Though Dr. Kay requires that each student in the class be a runner on some level, the religious aspect of the course focuses on individual spirituality, allowing everyone to take what they want out of the experience. "I read in Newsweek that more Americans are beginning to define themselves as spiritual, rather than under an organized religion," he says. "Through running, one can find the reasonableness of religion without having to go to synagogue or sit through a priest's sermon."

Merrimack College senior and political science major, Mike Berry, is one of many students whose interest was piqued by unique college courses such as Dr. Kay's. "I played football in high school and for one season in college, and had previously taken a class with Dr. Kay, so this course immediately grabbed my attention," says Mike. "And it fulfills one of my two theology requirements."

"I like that it's different," Mike shares. "It's nice to see an innovative teacher bringing more than just academics to the table in college courses."

Maybe running isn't your thing, but if you're interested in taking a unique college course, check out the course bulletin when you visit a school's web site. You're sure to find one that's just right for you, and if you can't, then perhaps you're looking in the wrong place.

Sound Off! Post Your Comments