Saint Louis University's Department of Theological Studies trains students in a variety of sources and methods to help them evaluate and appreciate the most vital aspects of religious experience and thought. The SLU department enters into this investigation from an academic perspective to help students clarify their own understanding. The Catholic tradition is central to the work of the department, but Catholicism is studied in the context of the whole Christian tradition and in relationship to all of the world’s religious traditions. The SLU theology program allows students to explore major questions about life and God while studying with top scholars in the field. SLU's major in theological studies consists of 33 credits. Students are required to take the Theological Foundations course, one World Religions course, one Teachings in the Christian Tradition course, four electives, one capstone seminar and at least one course in the following areas: Sacred Texts, Religious Traditions and Religious Ethics. The introductory course, Theological Foundations, introduces students to the God of revelation within the Judeo-Christian tradition and understanding its implications for living a human life, respecting creation, and pursuing beauty and truth. This is done within an ecumenical and global context, examining other world religions and social realities. Subsequent courses focus on an aspect of Christian or other religious traditions, and address social and moral issues. Students explore deep, theological issues in a welcoming environment that is both rooted in the Catholic tradition and open to all viewpoints. Students develop writing, research and critical thinking skills in preparation for graduate study and careers in various disciplines such as theology, law, social work, philosophy and many others.
Career Path
Graduate career path includes Pastor (Entry-Leve), Youth Minister, Worship Leader, Parish Administrator, Chaplain Assistant, Missionary, Religious Educator, Curriculum Developer (Religious Studies Programs), Teaching Assistant (Theology/Religious Studies), Secondary School Teacher (Religion/Ethics),Community Education Coordinator (Faith-Based Programs), Nonprofit Program Coordinator (Faith-Based),Community Outreach Specialist, Humanitarian Aid Worker (Religious NGO), Prison Ministry Coordinator, Advocacy Specialist (Faith & Justice Focus), Social Services Coordinator (Faith-Based Organizations), Grant Writer (Faith-Based Programs), Hospital Chaplain Assistant, Public Relations Specialist (Faith Organizations), Documentary Researcher (Religion/Spirituality Focus), Religious Journalist , Arts & Culture Program Coordinator (Religious Themes), Content Creator (Spiritual/Religious Focus).
