The theology discipline offers courses designed for and available to all students as well as courses that serve major and minor requirements both in theology and in pastoral ministry (see separate brochure). In keeping with the heritage, character and mission of Dominican University, courses and programs in this discipline emphasize the Christian, especially Catholic, tradition in open and ongoing conversation with other theological, religious and cultural traditions—many of which are richly represented in the Chicago area.

Theology is often defined as “faith seeking understanding.” Courses in theology aid that seeking through the critical and rigorous exploration of key texts, doctrines and questions of meaning and value. In this endeavor, the seeker is not alone. Students are accompanied in their learning by outstanding guides, past and present, from the Christian and other traditions. These guides include great Dominican figures such as Thomas Aquinas and Catherine of Siena.

Since theology considers various issues “under the aspect of God,” as Thomas Aquinas put it, virtually nothing falls outside its scope. Particular courses might take up such wideranging topics as the mystery of God, the life and mission of Jesus, Bible study, ethics, spirituality, and dimensions of the major world religions. Given the depth and extent of these subjects, courses are offered in distinct yet related areas:

• Area I: Theological foundations
• Area II: Biblical Literature and Foundations
• Area III: History and Doctrine
• Area IV: Christian Ethics and Spirituality
• Area V: Theology, Religion and Culture
• Area VI: Advanced Study

As is the case throughout Rosary College of Arts and Sciences, students may intensify individual courses, and thus receive additional credit hours, by completing an extra project appropriate for that course.

The Theology Major

The major in theology, undertaken within the context of the liberal arts and sciences, provides students with a solid grounding for study at the graduate level, as well as preparation for various career paths.