The Theology program provides a rich and diverse curriculum that immerses students in the study of Scripture, foundational Christian doctrines, church history, moral theology and ethics, spirituality and mysticism, liturgy, Catholic social teaching, church fathers and mothers, interfaith dialogue, and practical theology. Designed for students from varied backgrounds—ranging from those with extensive religious training to those new to theological study—the program fosters deep exploration of faith's critical questions. It supports theological formation while encouraging interdisciplinary growth, complementing double-majors to help students mature in multiple fields as they discern their vocational calling.
Theology Major and Minor
What will you study?
The theology major is intended to guide students through the rudiments of academic theological thought. It’s intended for anyone who identifies with a “faith seeking understanding,” in the language of St. Anselm of Canterbury. With only 36 required credits, this major can complement as double-major many other academic programs.
Theology Required Core (27 credits)
- THL 105 Introduction to Theology
- THL 226 Old Testament
- THL 228 New Testament
- THL 307 The Church
- THL 318 Fundamental Moral Theology
- THL 336 Liturgy, Prayer, & Sacrament
- THL 405 Jesus & the Tripersonal God
- THL 490 Senior Seminar
- PHL 350 God and Philosophy
Electives (any 3 credits)
- THL 311 Biblical Interpretation
- THL 324 Pentateuch
- THL 325 Poetic & Wisdom Literature
- THL 329 The Gospels
- THL 330 Paul’s Life & Letters
Electives (any 3 credits)
- THL 232 History of Christian Thought
- THL 308 Christian Unity & Diversity
- THL 332 Creative Theologians of the Modern Era
- THL 335 God and Beauty
Electives (any 3 credits)
- THL 316 Theological Bioethics
- THL 319 Sexual Ethics
- THL 321 Religious Perspectives on Social Issues
- THL 322 Catholic Social Teaching
- THL 337 Christian Celebration of the Mass
- THL 338 Christian Marriage
- THL 361 Foundations of Teaching Religion
- THL 371 Youth Ministry
- THL 423 Theologies From the Margin
- THL 472 Multicultural Ministry
- THL 474 Pastoral Administration
For San Damiano Scholars (3 credits)
- THL 270 Franciscan Theology & Spirituality
Theology Minor
18 credits including THL 105; one course from THL 232, 307, 308, 332, 336, 337; one course from THL 226, 228; one course from THL 218, 219, 316, 319, 321, 322, 338; one course from THL 405, 423, 428, 472, 474; one additional 3-credit THL course at the 300-400 level (excluding mentoring and internships).
Ministry Studies Major (30 credits)
The Ministry Studies major is distinguished from the theology major with an emphasis on applied ministry. It’s intended especially for anyone who would pursue a calling—along with Saints Francis and Clare—for rebuilding the church. With only 30 required credits, this major is our most streamlined option for students who would double-major in almost any other academic program and is particularly suited for San Damiano Scholars.
Ministry Studies Required Core (27 credits)
- THL 105 Introduction to Theology
- THL 226 Old Testament
- THL 228 New Testament
- THL 270 Franciscan Theology & Spirituality
- THL 336 Liturgy, Prayer, & Sacrament
- THL 170 Theology & Spirituality of Ministry OR THL 272 Pastoral Care & Spiritual Accompaniment
Pastoral Electives (any 3 credits)
- THL 361 Foundations of Teaching Religion
- THL 371 Youth Ministry
- THL 472 Multicultural Ministry
- THL 474 Pastoral Care & Counseling
Morality Electives (any 3 credits)
- THL 316 Theological Bioethics
- THL 318 Fundamental Moral Theology
- THL 319 Sexual Ethics
Social Justice Electives (any 3 credits)
- THL 321 Religious Perspectives on Social Issues
- THL 322 Catholic Social Teaching
- THL 423 Theologies from the Margin
Systematic Electives (any 3 credits)
- THL 307 The Church
- THL 308 Christian Unity & Diversity
- THL 405 Jesus & the Tripersonal God
Ministry Studies Minor (minimum requirement for San Damiano Scholars)
21 credits including THL 105 and 270; 170 or 272; three credits from THL 361, 371, 472, or 474 [NSG majors may substitute 427 and 435, or 478]; three credits from THL 226 or 228; three credits from THL 316, 318, 319, 321, 322, or 423; and three credits from THL 307, 308, 336, 337, or 405.
What are your career options?
The Theology program provides a rich and diverse curriculum that immerses students in the study of Scripture, foundational Christian doctrines, church history, moral theology and ethics, spirituality and mysticism, liturgy, Catholic social teaching, church fathers and mothers, interfaith dialogue, and practical theology. Designed for students from varied backgrounds—ranging from those with extensive religious training to those new to theological study—the program fosters deep exploration of faith's critical questions. It supports theological formation while encouraging interdisciplinary growth, complementing double-majors to help students mature in multiple fields as they discern their vocational calling.