Chair: Kenneth L. Parker, Ph.D.

The Catholic Studies major and minor at Duquesne University of the Holy Spirit is an interdisciplinary program devoted to the study of the Catholic tradition. This tradition has been lived in different historical contexts and cultural forms for two millennia. It is united by a common faith in Jesus Christ and forms a Church communion that continues to have significant impact on our understanding of reality and therefore every discipline in the University as well. Catholic Studies is designed to accomplish the integration of rigorous intellectual inquiry with living faith that has relevance for the personal and professional development of all students. We seek to foster with students a greater understanding, appreciation and advancement of Catholicism's extraordinary contributions to life, society and world cultures.

The major has been designed as an attractive option to combine with other majors, and the minor is accessible through a combination of core requirements and entry-level courses. Catholic Studies strives to develop courses that fulfill requirements for Bridges, especially among the Essential Question offerings.

Learning Outcomes

  • Identify the theological and philosophical tenets, doctrines, and practices that distinguish Catholicism from other religions and Christian traditions
  • Articulate the impact of Catholicism on various aspects of human civilization and in different historical moments
  • Communicate with fluency about major figures in Catholic artistic and intellectual traditions
  • Describe the Church as a global human family and cultural diversity as a gift of God's creation
  • Apply Spiritan principles of justice, peace, and the integrity of creation (JPIC) in personal and professional life that demonstrates leadership, teamwork, and service in Catholic, ecumenical, inter-religious contexts

Requirements for the Catholic Studies Major

Required: 30 Credits

Core Requirements

9 Credits for three Catholic Studies Courses (or their departmentally pre-approved equivalents):

  • CATH 201: The Word of God in Human Words: Introduction to Scripture
  • CATH 205: I Believe: Principles of the Catholic Faith
  • CATH 301: The Human Drama: The Catholic Church Through the Ages

3 Credits for Seminar:

CATH 395: Development in the Life of the Church - Major/Minor Seminar (sophomore/junior year)

3 Credits for Capstone:

CATH 495: Capstone Experience (seminar, independent study, internship, or portfolio)

Distribution Requirements

6 Credits from Two Categories:

  • Human Life and Community
  • History and Persons
  • Ideas and Doctrines
  • Science, Technology, and Medicine
  • Catholicism and the Arts
Electives

9 Credits from Electives

At least 3 courses from Distribution Requirements and Electives must be upper-division (300-400) for majors.

Requirements for the Catholic Studies Minor

Required: 15 Credits

Core Requirements

9 Credits for three Catholic Studies Courses (or their departmentally pre-approved equivalents):

  • CATH 201: The Word of God in Human Words: Introduction to Scripture
  • CATH 205: I Believe: Principles of the Catholic Faith
  • CATH 301: The Human Drama: The Catholic Church Through the Ages

3 Credits for Seminar:

CATH 395: Development in the Life of the Church - Major/Minor Seminar (sophomore/junior year)

Electives

3 Credits from an Elective