Theological Studies, B.A.

Program Overview

Saint Louis University's Theological Studies program trains students to evaluate and appreciate religious experience and thought, fostering critical thinking and communication skills. The program explores the Catholic tradition in dialogue with other Christian and world religions, preparing graduates for careers in ministry, education, and related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Saint Louis University's Department of Theological Studies offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theological Studies. The program aims to train students in a variety of sources and methods to help them evaluate and appreciate the most vital aspects of religious experience and thought.

Objectives:

• To explore major questions about life and God while studying with top scholars in the field.
• To delve into deep theological issues in a welcoming environment rooted in the Catholic tradition but open to all viewpoints.
• To develop writing, research, and critical thinking skills in preparation for graduate study and careers in various disciplines such as theology, law, social work, philosophy, and others.

Program Description:

The program focuses on the Catholic tradition but studies it within the context of the whole Christian tradition and in relationship to all of the world's religious traditions. Students are exposed to a diverse curriculum that includes:

• Theological Foundations: Introduces students to the God of revelation within the Judeo-Christian tradition and its implications for living a human life, respecting creation, and pursuing beauty and truth.
This is done within an ecumenical and global context, examining other world religions and social realities.
• Christian and Other Religious Traditions: Subsequent courses focus on aspects of Christian or other religious traditions, addressing social and moral issues.
• Scripture: Courses in both Hebrew and Christian Scripture.
• History of Christianity: From its origins to the present day.
• Constructive Theology: Examines central themes and pressing issues in Christianity.
• Theological Ethics: Studies diverse Christian practices.
• World Religions/Comparative Theology: Explores non-Christian faiths by comparing or contrasting them with Christianity or by studying them individually.
• Spirituality: Examines various expressions of Christian discipleship.

Careers:

Graduates of the Theological Studies program can pursue various career paths, including:

• Teaching: On the elementary and secondary levels or as religious education coordinators in a parish.
• Pastoral Ministry: Serving as pastoral associates in schools or parishes.
• Graduate Studies: Preparing for careers in ministry, teaching at the college or university level, and entering other professions.
• The department publishes a monthly newsletter, the Ignatian Herald, which keeps interested students informed about campus events.
• The department sponsors regular lectures in which world-class scholars share their ongoing research with faculty, students, and the wider University community.
• Faculty members and academic advisors/mentors assist students in finding internships in the St. Louis area or in their hometowns that will utilize the knowledge obtained from the theology curriculum and enhance students' skill sets.