Report of the Committee on Curriculum
One of the most common questions asked about the Maine Masonic College is: "Do you offer a Degree?". In the traditional sense, no but within our own sphere, the material below explains where we are on this matter currently. This is an evolving subject and we will keep you up to date as it develops.
To the Board of Regents, Maine Masonic College
July 16, 2006
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. That the Maine Masonic College award to all participants a Certificate in Masonic Studies when they have successfully completed the following eight basic courses.
2. That each of the eight basic courses be developed with syllabus, proper materials and evaluations by a team consisting of a paid professional expert in the pertinent field and members of the Board of Regents and/or Masonic College Staff.
3. That the Maine Masonic College award an Advanced Certificate to all holders of a Certificate in Masonic Studies on completion of a program consisting of additional course work (to be specified) and the writing of a research-based thesis obtained under the usual practices used with master degree candidates.
The Eight Basic Courses
I. [Subject Area: Mathematics] Practical Geometry. A hands-on course in practical geometry which demonstrates how geometry was and can still be used in construction, forestry, surveying and the determination of times and seasons.
II. [Subject Area: Symbolism] Religious Beliefs, Symbols, and Mythologies. The development of symbolism and mythology in the human effort to understand, express, and control their lives and the world around them.
III. [Subject Area: Critical Thinking] Logic and Critical Thinking in a Confusing World. The use of logic and the rational processes of judgment in the making of decisions in situations is often influenced by emotion. Examples: acquiring an appreciation of the placebo effect or the employment of common techniques of influencing choices in the marketplace and political arenas.
IV. [Subject Area: Astronomy] Worlds Around Us. Exploration of the cosmos including an introduction into the known forces and processes associated with time, space and matter.
V. [Subject Area: Rhetoric] Communication within the Craft or Other Social Entity. A choice of one of the following: (Of course, both could be taken.)
a. A practical course in public speaking including both physiological and psychological considerations;
b. Communication techniques and options provided by computers and other media devices and options.
VI. [Subject area] Ethics and Us. Development of an awareness of personal, moral responsibility toward others within the community. Such examples as Enron, individual and public good, and the role of such institutions as Freemasonry in today's society might be considered.
VII. [Subject Area: Sociology] Fraternities and the Social Fabric. Study of the growth and role of fraternities in societies with special attention to the interaction of agendas and beliefs, intolerance, and the history of anti-Masonic movements.
VIII. [Subject Area: Literature] Masonry in the Public Media. An interactive look at references to and the treatment of Freemasonry in recent novels, movies, TV specials, and other media presentations and a consideration for the reasons behind this recent interest in the fraternity.
In no way does this proposal of basic courses intend to replace or limit courses which the College is now giving or has upon the planning board.
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