Theology

An introduction to how people address such “religious” issues as faith, doubt, deity, good, evil, community, salvation and worship. Particular attention is given to ways of interpreting the Bible, and how this sacred literature addresses the lives of its many readers.

Course Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring

An introduction to foundational questions regarding the meaning and practice of Catholicism.

Course Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring

An introduction to basic principles of Catholic Social Thought (e.g., the sacredness of human life, the common good, preferential option for the poor, subsidiarity) with a particular focus on the economic, social, political, and ecological issues raised by globalization in the early twenty-first century.

A presentation of the Church’s understanding of itself, its membership, ministry and mission to the world.

A study of the origins, history and beliefs of the major Western and Eastern religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, with an emphasis on interreligious understanding.

How ought human beings live in society? A study of the nature, types and criteria of values, with an in-depth study of ethical principles and their applications to certain contemporary moral problems, e.g., abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, war and peace.

A study of the foundations of moral theology, including methodological and anthropological questions as well as attention to decision-making in the context of specific social and political issues that students are likely to encounter in the contemporary world. A writing-intensive capstone course introducing foundations of theological ethics as well as attention to virtue and decision-making in the context of contemporary personal, social, and political issues.

Prerequisites: sophomore standing.     Course Offered: Every Fall, Every Spring

This practicum is designed for persons planning a career in professions that “minister” to the public, e.g., theology majors, social science majors, health professions. In their practicum, students put learned theory to practical application by doing weekly “pastoral” work in places such as parishes, Catholic Social Services, neighborhood centers, campus ministry, and other religious laity work environments. Practicum learning objectives are developed by student and faculty member. Students are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours per week at their practicum site and complete a portfolio culminating the internship.

*Satisfies EXSL Core Requirement. Repeat up to 6 crs