Theology & religious studies
As a Catholic college, Saint Mary’s welcomes students of all faiths (or sincere searchers) to explore questions of belief. The Theology & Religious Studies Department carries primary, though not exclusive, responsibility for this exploration through the College’s two-course requirement in theology and religious studies. By requiring of all students an introduction to the Christian scriptures followed by an upper-division course of their choosing, the College demonstrates the importance both of faith itself, and of critical inquiry into it.
As a liberal arts college, Saint Mary’s encourages its students to become critical thinkers. The Theology & Religious Studies Department enthusiastically participates in this college-wide goal. Its offerings continually charge students to think for themselves, to challenge preconceived notions, and to integrate what they learn into a personal worldview that remains open to learning from the perspectives of others.
Finally, as a Lasallian college, Saint Mary’s, while respecting the difference between a school and a church, also respects the need to integrate knowing and doing and to foster a radical concern for justice in the world.
While the Theology & Religious Studies Department thus plays an important role in the general education of all the students, it also takes satisfaction in the growing number of students who choose to major or minor in Theology and Religious Studies. The minor provides a convenient way for those students who would like to explore their religious questions beyond the two-course requirement, but who do not have room in their schedule for either a full-time major in religion or a double major with religion. It consists of five courses, including the two already required of all students, and any three other upper division courses.
The newly redesigned major builds on the foundation of the scripture course, where students learn foundational techniques of analysis of religious texts and concepts. Combining choice with guidance, the program enables each student to create a series of courses both integrated and varied.
Whether the students have fulfilled the requirements for the major, the minor, or just the two-course requirement, the department’s goal is to prepare them for a life of continual growth, not just in knowledge, but in wisdom.
Religious Studies Podcast
Elizabeth Ashman, Kate Michalski, Norris Palmer, Zach Flanagin
