Key facts
UNE unit code: RELS381
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Expand your knowledge of other nations and their religions and develop your ability to critically analyse sources and evaluate information.
This unit presents a historical study of the major religious traditions in China and Japan from early times to the present day. It features Daoism, Confucianism, Shinto, Chinese folk religion and mythology, major schools of Chinese and Japanese Buddhism, and contemporary Chinese and Japanese Buddhism.
As part of this unit you will examine the social and political significance of religion in China and Japan and you will discuss the solutions to problems regarding the roles of religion in the Chinese and Japanese traditions.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate broad and coherent theoretical and technical knowledge with depth regarding the conceptual/doctrinal foundations of the main religious traditions in China and Japan and their historical backgrounds;
- analyse and evaluate information regarding the distinguishing features of religion in the Chinese and Japanese traditions;
- analyse, generate and transmit solutions to problems regarding the roles of religion in the Chinese and Japanese traditions; and
- transmit knowledge, skills and ideas to others regarding the theory and practice of religion in the Chinese and Japanese traditions.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 35% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 1500 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 2000 |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Written responses in online discussions and on campus classes No. Words: 1000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Referenced material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Introducing Japanese Religion
ISBN: 9781138958760
Ellwood, R., Routledge 2nd ed. 2016
Text refers to: All offerings
Introducing Chinese Religions
ISBN: 9780415434065
Poceski, M., Routledge Paperback 2009
Text refers to: All offerings
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