Chair: William M. Wright IV, Ph.D.

The Department of Catholic Studies offers an integrated, interdisciplinary program grounded in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. Developed from a belief in the unity of all knowledge, a degree in Catholic Studies prepares you to engage the study of all things—from the arts to the sciences—from a perspective that celebrates the complementarity of faith and reason, truth and goodness, nature and grace, faith and action, beauty and knowledge, and more.

The Catholic Intellectual Tradition has been lived in diverse historical contexts and cultural forms for two millennia, unified by a common faith in Jesus Christ. While it is neither a theology, nor a catechetics, nor a religious studies program, Catholic Studies is rooted in the belief that the Incarnation transforms reality and changes every aspect of human life. Catholic and non-Catholic alike, students engage in Catholic Studies to encounter those great topics that give meaning and purpose to life.

Catholic Studies offers major and minor programs. The major can be taken alone or combined with other majors, and the minor is accessible through a combination of core requirements and electives. Catholic Studies enriches and complements degrees in nursing, business, pharmacy, health sciences, education, music, and a wide range of the liberal arts.

Catholic Studies strives to develop courses that fulfill requirements for Bridges, especially among the Essential Question offerings.

Learning Outcomes

  • Identify the major pillars of the Catholic Intellectual Tradition (CIT). 
  • Develop a greater awareness of the impact of the CIT in various historical contexts and cultural forms. 
  • Foster a humane perspective that prepares you for a more charitable and ethical encounter with the world. 
  • Demonstrate the ability to apply CIT principles to practical and professional life.

Requirements for the Catholic Studies Major

Required: 30 Credits

Core Requirements

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)

Electives

24 Credits from Electives

Requirements for the Catholic Studies Minor

Required: 15 Credits

Electives

15 Credits from Electives