Theology is faith seeking understanding. In dialogue with related ideas, the department emphasizes development of thoughtful convictions about the relationships between God and persons, especially as discovered in and through Roman Catholic perspectives.

Courses in theology increase the intellectual horizons and personal awareness of all students at the university. The three theology major programs prepare students for advanced theological study and/or for pastoral and educational ministries in the Roman Catholic Church. All majors must complete the theology core and additional courses prescribed for the pastoral and youth ministry major, the religious education major, or the theology major. The minor in theology promotes fundamental awareness of the Christian vision of life and is earned by students who complete eighteen credits in theology.

See this May 2006 graduate run away from Saint Mary's University!

Why do believers study theology?

General Department Goals

Students in theology courses will:

• Gain an understanding of Christianity as a major world religion and be able to define its central beliefs and themes.
• Gain knowledge of the Bible and understand its role as a source of God’s revelation.
• Recognize the distinctive elements of the Roman Catholic tradition and demonstrate an understanding of the relationships among beliefs, moral principles and ethical behavior, sacramentality, and prayer as taught from a Catholic perspective.
• Gain skills, attitudes, and intellectual capacities necessary for engaging the life, vision, mission, and practices of a faith community.

Academic excellence is rewarded by membership in Theta Alpha Kappa, the national honor society for theology and religion. Saint Mary’s University is the Alpha Gamma Omega chapter.

Majors & Minors Offered
Pastoral and Youth Ministry Major
Religious Education Major
Theology Major
Theology Minor

National Data on Students' Experience of SMU

Our Bishops and Lay Ministry

Theology Homepage

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