Pastoral Ministry (BA)

Core in the Major: Philosophy, Theology, and Scripture (39 hours)

Students must complete the following 39 hours:

Concentration in the Major (39 Hours) is chosen from the following:

1. Concentration in Philosophy (39 Hours):

This concentration prepares students for the study of Theology and is based on the Church’s most fundamental belief in the compatibility of reason and faith. The overall goal is to enable graduates to understand their future theological studies within the context of the Catholic intellectual tradition. This concentration meets the U.S. Catholic Bishops’ requirements in Philosophy for admission into a major seminary for studies towards ordination.

A. Required courses (27 hours):

B. Electives: 12 hours of Pastoral Ministry, Latin, Philosophy, or Theology

NOTE: Substitutions are possible with the approval of the Chair of the Department.

2. Concentration in Catholic Leadership (39 Hours):

This concentration is designed for those seeking to serve the Church in key lay pastoral ministry leadership positions in diocesan offices, in Catholic schools and organizations, and as parish administrators according to the quidelines outlined in Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord. The goal is to provide the student with an in-depth knowledge of the Church's teachings and a pastoral plan for implementing best practices for church management, ethical pastoral care, and faithful leadership in today's complex cultural settings.

A-Required courses (18 hours):

B. Electives: 21 hours of Pastoral Ministry, Latin, Philosophy, or Theology

NOTE: Substitutions are possible with the approval of the Chair of the Department.

3. Concentration in Catechetics (39 Hours):

Catechetics is the teaching of basic Catholic doctrine. This concentration prepares catechetical leaders to oversee diocesan, parish, and school-based programs for evangelizing and educating adults, teens, children, and families in the Catholic faith. The courses draw from the rich array of the Church's documents on evangelization, catechesis, culture, and Hispanic Ministry. The goal is to enable the graduate to design and implement a comprehensive approach to catechesis that begins with the family, builds on the assets of the community and culture being served, and is centered in the sacramental life of the church.

A. Required courses (15 hours):

B. Electives: 24 hours of Pastoral Ministry, Latin, Philosophy, or Theology

NOTE: Substitutions are possible with the approval of the Chair of the Department.