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Theology
Buddhism and the religions of the Far East, especially Shinto, Dao and Confucian thought. Prerequisite:
TH112, TH113, TH114, or TH115.
TH280 Latin American Catholics 3 credits
This course addresses the demographic reality of an expanding Latina/o presence in the Roman Catholic
church, both worldwide and within the United States. Specifically, topics covered are: the dynamics
of Latina/o migration Jesus’ attitudes and behaviors towards the marginalized; Mayan Catholic faith
expressions; the U.S. Catholic Church’s response to the Latina/o Catholic presence; and an appreciation
of the one baptism that bonds us with our sisters and brothers in faith. This is an in situ, studentcentered
course. Students are expected to complete the prerequisite course work before coming to
Guatemala and, while in Guatemala, to actively participate in all course related activities.
TH281-290 Special Topics
1-3 credits
TH298 Field Exploration 1-3 credits
Field exploration experiences offer students who are considering a major in the department the
opportunity to explore a variety of pastoral and theological ministries in a supervised setting. More
limited in scope and time than an internship, field exploration involves mainly observation of ministry
and is coordinated through the Career Services & Internships Office. Sophomore status and permission
of the department are required. Graded pass/no credit.
TH310 Principles of Sacraments and Liturgy 3 credits
Students consider the history, theology, and practice of Christian sacramental life as they address the
questions of ritual, celebration, and worship. The course also examines general principles of liturgy
and ritual, as well as guidelines for planning and implementing pastorally effective liturgy. Offered in
alternate fall semesters. Prerequisite: TH209.
TH345 Catholic Social Teaching 3 credits
This course acquaints students with the modern history and current application of Catholic social
teaching, focusing on the themes of economics and work, life and death, and war and peace issues.
Students engage both primary and secondary literature and examine how Christians critically think
through social issues. A service learning component is offered. Offered in alternate spring semesters.
Prerequisite: TH115 or TH209.
TH350 Introduction to Catholic Moral Theology 3 credits
As the foundational class in moral theology, this course addresses the different moral theologies in the
Catholic tradition, from Scriptural ethics to natural law. Contemporary issues are addressed as a means
of explicating schools of ethical method and applying moral reasoning. Prerequisite: TH115 or TH209.
TH360 History of Catholic Thought 3 credits
Defining moments in Catholic tradition from earliest Catholicism up to the First Vatican Council (1869-
70) are investigated. Official Catholic teachings, major thinkers and cultural movements are considered
for their insights into Christian faith and human development. Offered in alternate fall semesters.
Prerequisite: TH115 or TH209.
TH375 Contemporary Catholic Thought 3 credits
After establishing familiarity with the history and texts of the Second Vatican Council (1962-65),
students consider theological and pastoral thought from the 20th and 21st centuries. Special attention
is paid to ecclesiological innovations concerning lay and clerical leadership, the local and universal
Church, and the universal call to holiness and justice. Offered in alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite:
TH115 or TH209.
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