Catholic Studies

Whether you pursue a major or a minor in Catholic Studies, you will have access to a wide range of courses united by a common commitment to the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. Along the way, you will be able to fulfill core University curriculum requirements while choosing from a variety of timely and engaging electives.

We welcome students from all programs and majors to explore the Catholic Intellectual Tradition and to discover how it can enrich their primary course of study.

 

Program Information

Our Catholic Studies major/minor integrates the Catholic Intellectual Tradition with other disciplines, elevating your understanding of the world through a comprehensive perspective.

Program Type

Major, Minor

Degree

Bachelor's

School

McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts

Duration

4-year

Required Credit Hours

30, 15

Modality

In-Person

"If you're looking for something to revitalize your faith and add another dimension to your academic life, then Catholic studies is perfect. If you want a break from your major and you're looking for intellectual exercise, then explore what Catholic studies has to offer."

—Thomas Merante

Program Requirements for Major

View Catalog
  • CATH 396: Development in the Life of the Church Seminar
Eight electives of your choice. Options include: 
  • Introduction to the Catholic Intellectual Tradition
  • Peace, Justice, and Human Dignity
  • Big Bang to AI: Science and the Catholic World View
  • Rulebreakers: A New Look at the Ten Commandments Through Film
  • Christian Philosophy
  • The Human Person in a Post-Proof Era
Determined in consultation with the Department Chair. Opportunities include: 
  • Seminar
  • Independent study
  • Internship
  • Portfolio

Catholic Studies Minor

The Catholic Studies minor is accessible to all Duquesne students.

Minoring in Catholic Studies requires the following classes:
  • 5 CATH electives

Bridges Requirements

Earn a major or minor while completing Bridges requirements.

Some sections of the following courses are accepted as credits towards a CATH degree. Contact the department directly to discuss registration for: 
  • 105T/105P: Intro to Ethical Reasoning
  • EQ 108, EQ 110, EQ 118, EQ 132, EQ 140, EQ 150, and more. 

CATH and CATH cross-listed courses often fulfill the THEO or PHIL requirement. Contact the department directly, or speak with your success coach when registering.

Learning Outcomes

In addition to the Liberal Arts General Outcomes for all Undergraduate Degree Areas, students in the B.A. in Catholic Studies program will demonstrate the following general competencies:
  1. Knowledge: Identify the major pillars of the Catholic Intellectual Tradition (CIT).
  2. Impact: Develop a greater awareness of the impact of CIT in various historical contexts and cultural forms. 
  3. Empathy: Foster a humane perspective that prepares you for a more charitable and ethical encounter with the world.
  4. Integration: Demonstrate the ability to apply CIT principles to practical and professional life.

Contact for more info

Ren Horcher

Program Manager