Theology | BA

Program Overview

Theology invites students to grapple with some of the fundamental questions of humanity, and to learn to draw upon the sources of a particular faith tradition, namely, Catholic Christianity. This invitation and foundation reflect the mission and values of Anna Maria College, and the charisms of Blessed Marie-Anne Blondin.

The study of theology builds on thousands of years of discourse and reflection, and on the foundational elements of both faith and reason. Students in this major will practice the valuable skills of thinking and reading critically, as well as writing and speaking clearly and persuasively, on some of the most relevant, complex and life-defining topics, such as relationships, community, calling, work, service, peace and justice.

Curriculum Highlights

Course of Study

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Curriculum Highlights

THE 114 – Bible, Tradition and Church Teaching

Required

This course introduces students to the three essential sources used in the study of Catholic theology: Scripture, Tradition, and Church teaching.

3 credits

THE 310 – Jesus, Fully Human, Fully Divine

Required

This course encompasses an historical and systematic study of the person and work of Jesus Christ as the object and foundation of Christian faith. Pre-requisite THE 210.

3 credits

THE 316 – Sacramental and Liturgical Theology

Required

This course examines the history, doctrine, theory and praxis of sacraments and liturgy within the Roman Catholic Church. Pre-requisite THE 210.

3 credits

Church History 1 course

Required

This course explores the development of the Christian church from Pentecost to the present day.

3 credits

Catholic Art/Literature 1 course

Required

A global Catholic literature includes themes such as colonialism, race and justice, the human family, and the tension of writing and living between cultures.

3 credits

Catholic Spirituality or Morality 1 course

Required

Provides student with a firm understanding of the principles of Catholic morality, covering a wide range of topics ranging from doubts against the Faith to the evangelical counsels.

3 credits

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Course Of Study

Career and Internship Opportunity

CAREER

Religious educator
Publisher (denominational newspapers)
Church music/choral director
Parish associate
Youth pastor
Campus minister

Program Learning Outcomes

Students successfully completing the Bachelor’s degree in Theology will be able to:

Demonstrate the appropriate use of fundamental theological vocabulary, sources and research tools
Identify specific passages in the Bible and in Church teaching documents, and analyze these passages in relationship to fundamental theological concepts, methods and questions
Describe ways that contemporary events and trends in the US Catholic Church fit within the larger context of the history of the Church around the world
Describe the Catholic understanding of various contributions that individuals and groups can make toward forming a more peaceful society, drawing upon both moral theology and Catholic social teaching
Analyze, in discussion and in writing, the nature of the relationship between faith and reason in light of the Catholic intellectual tradition
Communicate effectively in discourse and in writing that is clear, coherent and representative of complex thought
Present a portfolio of substantial written and/or creative coursework in conjunction with a cumulative, integrative reflection paper