Theology, MA
Chairperson: Conor Kelly, Ph.D.
Department of Theology Graduate Programs website
Degree Offered
Master of Arts
Program Description
The Department of Theology offers graduate programs aimed at providing students an integrated approach to theology emphasizing the scriptural, historical, systematic, and ethical approaches to study in the Catholic and Christian religious traditions. We aim to develop scholars capable of making significant contributions to theological research and teaching a broad range of subjects in theology and religion. Our programs have prepared graduates to secure teaching positions in over 200 colleges, universities, and other educational institutions as well as for vocations in pastoral ministry and other service-oriented and non-profit organizations.
The master of arts in theology program has distinct specializations designed for students who intend to pursue doctoral degrees in theology or religious studies. It also has specializations designed for those working or aspiring to work in Church-related organizations involving teaching, religious formation, or other forms of theological communication, and for those seeking personal theological enrichment.
Theology Master of Arts (M.A.)
Specializations: Christian Doctrine, General Studies, Historical Theology, Judaism and Christianity in Antiquity, Systematic Theology/Theological Ethics, Theology and Society
Students must complete 30 credit hours of course work and submit an approved final project. Students choosing the Judaism and Christianity in antiquity, historical theology, and systematic theology/theological ethics specializations must demonstrate proficiency in a modern language other than English. The following program description summarizes those requirements. Additional information may be found in the Department of Theology's Policies and Procedures.
Required Course work
All students must complete the following required core courses:
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| THEO 6100 | Introduction to Scripture | 3 |
| THEO 6200 | Introduction to Historical Theology | 3 |
| THEO 6310 | Introduction to Systematic Theology | 3 |
| THEO 6410 | Introduction to Theological Ethics | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 12 | |
Elective Course Options
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| All THEO courses numbered in the 5000 and 5100 ranges (JUCA) | ||
| All THEO courses numbered in the 5200 range (HITH) | ||
| All THEO courses numbered in the 5300, 5400 and 5500 ranges (SYTH/THET) | ||
| THEO 6130 | The Gospels (JUCA) | 3 |
| THEO 6330 | Christian Spirituality (SYTH/THET) | 3 |
| THEO 6415 | Catholic Social Encyclical Tradition (SYTH/THET) | 3 |
| All THEO courses numbered in the 8000, 8100, 8200 and 8300 ranges (JUCA) | ||
| All THEO courses numbered in the 8400 range (HITH) | ||
| All THEO courses numbered in the 8500 and 8600 ranges (SYTH/THET) | ||
In consultation with their advisers and not later than the end of the first year of enrollment in the program, students must choose a specialization. Students' choice of specialization dictates the terms of their course of study.
Specialization Requirements
Specializations in Judaism and Christianity in Antiquity, Historical Theology, and Systematic Theology/Theological Ethics
For the following three specializations, students may pursue either of two academic plans: Plan A (thesis) or Plan B (non-thesis). Students are assumed to opt for Plan B unless expressly approved by the department's Graduate Committee to pursue Plan A instead.
- Judaism and Christianity in Antiquity (JUCA)
- Historical Theology (HITH)
- Systematic Theology/Theological Ethics (SYTH/THET)
Plan A Requirements
Plan A requires the 12 credit hours of core course work as listed above, 3 elective credit hours in Judaism and Christianity in antiquity, 3 elective credit hours in historical theology, 6 elective credit hours in the area of specialization and 6 credit hours of supervised research toward a master's thesis.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Course Work | 12 | |
| Elective Course Work (3 credit hours in JUCA, 3 credit hours in HITH) | 6 | |
| Elective Course Work (elective course work in area of specialization) | 6 | |
| THEO 6999 | Master's Thesis | 6 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
Plan B Requirements
Plan B requires the 12 credit hours of core course work as listed above, 3 elective credit hours in Judaism and Christianity in antiquity, 3 elective credit hours in historical theology, 6 elective credit hours in any area, 6 elective credit hours in the area of the specialization and the completion of a non-credit master's exam.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Course Work | 12 | |
| Elective Course Work (3 credit hours in JUCA, 3 credit hours in HITH, 6 credit hours in any area) | 12 | |
| Elective Course Work (6 credits in the area of specialization) | 6 | |
| Master's Exam | 0 | |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
Second LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT
Students choosing the Judaism and Christianity in antiquity, historical theology or systematic theology/theological ethics specialization are required to demonstrate proficiency in German, French or another modern language other than English essential to their research agenda. Students typically fulfill this requirement by earning a grade of B or above in course work or on a language examination administered by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures.
Specialization in General Studies
Students choosing the general studies option must opt for academic Plan B. They are required to complete the 12 credit hours of core course work as listed above, 3 elective credit hours in Judaism and Christianity in antiquity, 3 elective credit hours in historical theology, 12 credit hours of elective course work in any area or areas of specialization and a non-credit master's exam.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Course Work | 12 | |
| Elective Course Work (3 credit hours in JUCA, 3 credit hours in HITH) | 6 | |
| Elective Course Work (any area or areas of specialization) | 12 | |
| Master's Exam | 0 | |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
SPECIALIZATION IN CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE
Students choosing the Christian doctrine specialization normally pursue academic Plan B. They are required to complete the 12 credit hours of core course work as listed above, 6 credit hours in Christian doctrine, 6 credit hours of course work as approved by the adviser specific to Christian doctrine, 6 credits in any area and a non-credit master's exam. Students in the Christian doctrine specialization may request to switch to Plan A (thesis option) and substitute 6 credits of THEO 6999 Master's Thesis for the 6 credits of elective course work. Additional details on the requirements for the Master's Exam and Plan A option for students in the Christian doctrine specialization may be found in the Department of Theology's Policies and Procedures.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required course work | 12 | |
| THEO 6320 | Christian Doctrine 1 | 3 |
| THEO 6321 | Christian Doctrine 2 | 3 |
| Additional specialization course work as approved by adviser | 6 | |
| Elective course work | 6 | |
| Master's Exam | 0 | |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
Specialization in Theology and Society
Students choosing the theology and society specialization must be affiliated with the Trinity Fellows program and must opt for academic Plan B. They are required to complete the 12 credit hours of core course work as listed above, 3 elective credit hours in Judaism and Christianity in antiquity, 3 elective credit hours in historical theology, 12 credit hours of elective course work in any area or areas of specialization and a non-credit master's exam. Up to 6 credit hours of non-theology course work completed in conjunction with the Trinity Fellows program may be applied to the student's elective course work requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Course Work | 12 | |
| Elective Course Work (3 credit hours in JUCA, 3 credit hours in HITH) | 6 | |
| Elective Course Work (any area or areas of specialization, including approved non-theology courses) | 12 | |
| Master's Exam | 0 | |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
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THEO 5000 Digging the Bible: Archeology and Biblical Studies (3 credits)
An exploration of the uses and abuses of archeology relative to the field of biblical studies. Case studies in a historical approach to the intersection of archeology and biblical theology.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Spring Term, 2017 Fall Term
THEO 5020 The Bible in the Jewish Community (3 credits)
The uses of the Bible in Jewish life and practice, in synagogue and in private use. Haggadah and Halakah.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Fall Term, 2018 Spring Term, 2016 Fall Term, 2016 Spring Term
THEO 5030 Women in the Bible (3 credits)
Status and roles of women in selected biblical texts. Social and historical background with emphasis on narrative technique and theological themes.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2015 Summer Term, 2014 Fall Term, 2013 Summer Term, 2013 Spring Term
THEO 5190 Studies in Biblical Theology (3 credits)
Significant topics in Old Testament, Intertestamental or New Testament literature.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2013 Spring Term
THEO 5200 Theology in the Early Church (3 credits)
Basic theological questions and developments during the era of the Church Fathers.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Spring Term, 2016 Spring Term, 2014 Spring Term, 2013 Spring Term
THEO 5210 History and Theology of the Christian East (3 credits)
The Christian East from its origins, through the conversion of Constantine, to the present-day Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox Churches. Particular attention to the distinctive theological emphases of the East, as well as to the developments leading to the break in communion between Catholic (and Protestant) West and Orthodox East.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Spring Term, 2017 Spring Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2014 Fall Term
THEO 5220 St. Augustine: The Man and the Theologian (3 credits)
A study of Augustine's life, writings and thought, with special attention to the Confessions, to his theology of the church and the sacraments, and to his teaching on grace and predestination, against the background of his early philosophical writings.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Fall Term, 2012 Fall Term
THEO 5230 Theology in the Middle Ages (3 credits)
Basic theological questions and developments during the Middle Ages, from the Carolingians to the 14th century.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Fall Term, 2013 Fall Term, 2012 Fall Term, 2011 Spring Term
THEO 5240 Theology in the Reformation Era (3 credits)
Basic theological questions and developments during the late Middle Ages and early Reformation. Also addresses current ecumenical issues.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Spring Term, 2010 Fall Term
THEO 5250 Martin Luther (3 credits)
The thought and world of Luther, with emphasis on Luther in his Catholic context; Luther and the Bible, Augustine, the Radicals, the Pope; Luther's theology of faith and freedom; contextual, theological and ethical.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2017 Fall Term, 2015 Spring Term, 2013 Fall Term, 2012 Summer Term
THEO 5260 Theology in America (3 credits)
Basic theological questions and developments from Puritanism to the present.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 5270 The Many Faces of U.S. Catholicism (3 credits)
Investigates the development of diverse manifestations of U.S. Catholic life and thought. Explores how historical and contemporary experiences, including slavery, migration, sexism and other forms of historical exclusion, contribute to the shaping of theologies and practices that are uniquely American and distinctly Catholic.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2014 Fall Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2010 Fall Term
THEO 5290 Studies in Historical Theology (3 credits)
Significant figures and themes in the history of religious thought, examined in their historical context and contemporary significance. Topics and periods vary.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Fall Term, 2012 Fall Term, 2011 Fall Term
THEO 5300 The Question of God in a Secular Age (3 credits)
Origins and varieties of contemporary atheism. The existence of God and Christian theistic interpretations.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2017 Fall Term, 2016 Spring Term, 2014 Fall Term
THEO 5310 Theology of the Holy Spirit (3 credits)
Study of the distinct mission and person of the Holy Spirit in the Trinitarian work of human salvation. Analysis of biblical, patristic, and conciliar sources; attention to modern theology and the role of experience.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Fall Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2011 Fall Term, 2011 Summer Term
THEO 5320 Jesus the Christ (3 credits)
The identity of Jesus Christ and the nature of Christian salvation as attested to in the New Testament and Christian tradition. Historical Jesus and diversity of christologies in the New Testament. Humanity and divinity of Christ. The saving significance of Christ's life, death and resurrection.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Fall Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2012 Fall Term, 2011 Fall Term
THEO 5330 Theology of the Church (3 credits)
The Church in light of the documents, events, and charism of Vatican II. Contemporary understandings of the Church and its mission in the modern world. Special attention to post-conciliar "communion ecclesiology" and the relation of the local to the universal Church.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Spring Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2012 Fall Term, 2010 Spring Term
THEO 5340 Sacraments and Christian Life (3 credits)
Theological overview of the major sacramental enactments of the church's life in Christ. The witness of Scripture and Tradition, including the liturgy itself. Ethical and ecumenical dimensions.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Spring Term, 2013 Fall Term, 2012 Fall Term, 2011 Spring Term
THEO 5350 The Eucharist (3 credits)
Biblical origins and historical evolution of the Eucharist in light of contemporary theology and ritual theory, with special focus on the Roman Rite Catholic post-Vatican II celebration.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Spring Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2010 Fall Term
THEO 5370 Protestant Thought and Practice (3 credits)
Major perspectives within the broad spectrum of Protestantism. Examination of the thought of several Protestant theologians. A survey of the unity and diversity of several Protestant denominations and their respective forms of worship.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 5390 Studies in Systematic Theology (3 credits)
Significant movements and/or major figures in contemporary systematic theology. Their historical antecedents and cultural context. Specific topics to be specified in the Schedule of Classes.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Fall Term, 2016 Fall Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2015 Spring Term
THEO 5400 Christian Faith and Justice (3 credits)
Classic and recent Christian understandings of justice as interpersonal and societal right-relations. Justice as constitutive aspect of the Gospel; love and justice; Christian responsibility in the face of injustice. Further issues, e.g. sexual and gender ethics, political and economic issues.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term, 2009 Fall Term
THEO 5405 Christian Theology in Global Contexts (3 credits)
The reception of the Christian gospel in diverse cultures throughout the world. The challenge of inculturation and the requirements of the unity of Christian faith. The meaning of mission and evangelization outside the West. The encounter with indigenous religions.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2015 Spring Term
THEO 5410 Family, Church, and Society (3 credits)
The interaction of family, church, and society. Contemporary family patterns, their strengths and stresses; the teachings, reflection, and pastoral responses of the Church concerning marriage and family. Ecclesial and societal implications of family as "domestic church."
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Fall Term
THEO 5430 Religion and Science (3 credits)
Theological analysis of the historical relationship between religion and the natural sciences; exploration of models for relating the two disciplines today; reflection on the theological implications of contemporary scientific discoveries and theories.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2011 Fall Term, 2010 Spring Term
THEO 5440 Foundations of Ecological Ethics (3 credits)
Exploration of religious foundations for ecological ethics, with a focus on the Catholic tradition and social teachings; application to contemporary ecological problems.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Spring Term, 2016 Fall Term, 2013 Fall Term, 2011 Spring Term
THEO 5450 Medical Ethics (3 credits)
Health care practices under moral assessment from within the Christian tradition. Controversial topics facing medicine (issues of the beginning and end of life, assisted reproduction, etc.) as related to Christian moral principles.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Spring Term
THEO 5490 Studies in Moral Theology (3 credits)
Selected issues in contemporary moral life; selected themes from classical and contemporary writings in moral theology and Christian ethics. Topics vary, as specified in the Schedule of Classes.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Spring Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2014 Spring Term, 2013 Fall Term
THEO 5510 Survey of World Religions (3 credits)
An overview of the major religious traditions of the world: Hinduism, Buddhism, religions of China and Japan, Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Summer Term, 2015 Summer Term, 2014 Summer Term, 2013 Summer Term
THEO 5520 Jewish Thought and Practice (3 credits)
Meaning of Jewish history. Philosophical and social understanding of the Jewish experience. Ruling ideas, myths, symbols, and rites. Partially funded by the Jewish Chautauqua Society.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2015 Spring Term, 2012 Fall Term
THEO 5530 Islam: Faith and Practice (3 credits)
Major trends of Islamic religious thought, practice, and worship. Readings from the Qur'an and other Islamic writings. Historical approach. Current issues and developments. Islam in the West.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Spring Term, 2019 Spring Term, 2015 Spring Term, 2014 Fall Term
THEO 5540 Hinduism, Yoga, and Buddhism (3 credits)
Religious experience, cultic act, religious organization, theological formulation, as illustrated by two religions of India, Hinduism and Buddhism. Yoga as spiritual discipline. Historical approach. Readings from sacred writings.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Spring Term, 2009 Fall Term
THEO 6100 Introduction to Scripture (3 credits)
Explores the Old Testament / Hebrew Scriptures and New Testament as historical religious documents and as Scripture. Presents content and methods in Law and Former Prophets, Latter Prophets and Writings, Gospels and Acts, and Paul and Later New Testament. Examines the history of biblical interpretation and the impact of Scripture in the life of the Church and other communities of faith.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term
THEO 6110 Old Testament Method (3 credits)
Introduction to the history, literature, and religion of ancient Israel. History and methods of interpretation.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA or THEO-MACD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Spring Term, 2019 Fall Term, 2018 Spring Term, 2016 Fall Term
THEO 6120 New Testament Method (3 credits)
Background, geography, text, language, versions, editions. Principal problems in individual books. Exegetical techniques. Hermeneutical principles.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA or THEO-MACD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2020 Spring Term, 2017 Fall Term, 2016 Spring Term
THEO 6130 The Gospels (3 credits)
Formation, structure, and styles of the four canonical Gospels. Topics to be studied include: their sources, literary relationships, depictions of Jesus, role of the Church, discipleship, and suffering. Each Gospel will be studied in terms of the communities that produced them and their relationship to other texts. Exegesis of selected texts.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA or THEO-MACD student.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Summer Term, 2015 Summer Term, 2013 Summer Term
THEO 6200 Introduction to Historical Theology (3 credits)
Explores the discipline of historical theology in a period spanning from the Apostolic Fathers to the Early Modern era. Surveys the articulation of Christian theology in this period through close study of selected theological figures, themes and developments. Examines the differences between Greek East and Latin West and issues surrounding the Reformation while attending to the social, historical and philosophical contexts in which theological developments take place. Enhances abilities to evaluate and communicate theological principles through careful examination of primary texts.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term
THEO 6210 Origen to Late Medieval (3 credits)
A brief introduction to historiography and historical method with a more focused introduction to major theological issues and debates (e.g., scripture and tradition; trinity; Christology; grace and sacraments; faith and reason; church and state) and to some of the key contributions of major eastern and western theologians (e.g., Origen, Augustine, Pseudo-Dionysius, John of Damascus, Anselm, Abelard, Gregory Palamas, Aquinas, Bonaventure, Scotus).; required for all master's candidates.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA or THEO-MACD stduent or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Summer Term, 2020 Fall Term, 2019 Summer Term, 2018 Fall Term
THEO 6220 Late Medieval to Early Modern (3 credits)
A basic introduction to theological developments from 1350 to the end of the Enlightenment (1800). Examines major theological movements and the thought of major thinkers (e.g., Ockham, Biel, Erasmus, Luther, Calvin, Bellarmine, Bossuet, Pascal, Spener, Edwards, Lessing, Kant) within their social, historical, and philosophical contexts.; required for all master's candidates.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA or THEO-MACD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term, 2020 Summer Term, 2019 Fall Term, 2017 Fall Term
THEO 6310 Introduction to Systematic Theology (3 credits)
Relation of systematic theology to faith, revelation (the Bible, Church creeds and doctrines), and the Church. The role of biblical exegesis, historical scholarship, philosophy, natural and human sciences in systematic theology. Derivation of various categories, subdivisions, and methods of systematic theology. The challenges and prospects of interconfessional and interreligious dialogue for systematic theology.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2021 Fall Term, 2020 Spring Term, 2018 Spring Term
THEO 6320 Christian Doctrine 1 (3 credits)
A historical and theological introduction to the formation and development of the Christian doctrines of the Trinity, Christology, and Pneumatology. Focuses on the interrelationships of these doctrines.
Prerequisite: THEO-MACD student.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Fall Term, 2017 Fall Term, 2016 Spring Term, 2013 Spring Term
THEO 6321 Christian Doctrine 2 (3 credits)
A historical and theological introduction to the Christian doctrines of Church, sacraments, and eschatology. Focuses on the interrelationships of these doctrines with one another and with those in Christian Doctrine 1.
Prerequisite: THEO-MACD student.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term, 2018 Spring Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2013 Fall Term
THEO 6330 Christian Spirituality (3 credits)
Explores the theological foundations of and key concepts, texts and figures in the field of Christian spirituality. Focuses on the relationship between theory and practice in historical and contemporary contexts.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA or THEO-MACD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2018 Fall Term
THEO 6410 Introduction to Theological Ethics (3 credits)
Systematic survey of the fundamental categories, concepts and norms used in moral theology to analyze human moral experience. The role of Scripture and tradition as foundational sources in moral theology. The church as the locus for Christian moral reflection. Pivotal issues in the historical development of moral theology. The relation of moral philosophy to moral theology. Required for master's core curriculum.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA or THEO-MACD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2018 Fall Term, 2017 Spring Term
THEO 6415 Catholic Social Encyclical Tradition (3 credits)
Explores the following principles of Catholic Social teaching: the dignity of persons in community and the common good; the duties of the state and the principle of subsidiarity; kinds of justice and their application in social, political and economic life; the relationship between labor and capital; Church-state relationships; war and peace; and environmental stewardship. The issues are traced through the documents of Vatican II and selected Apostolic Exhortations.
Prerequisite: THEO-MA or THEO-MACD student or cons. of dept.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Summer Term, 2021 Summer Term, 2019 Spring Term, 2012 Summer Term
THEO 6995 Independent Study in Theology (1-3 credits)
Faculty-supervised, independent study/research of a specific area or topic in Theology.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Summer Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Fall Term
THEO 6998 Professional Project in Theology (0 credits)
SNC/UNC grade assessment.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 6999 Master's Thesis (1-6 credits)
S/U grade assessment.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term
THEO 8010 Intensive Hebrew Grammar (3 credits)
Introduction to Biblical Hebrew. Emphasis will be placed on grammar, verb syntax, and vocabulary acquisition.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Spring Term, 2012 Fall Term, 2011 Fall Term, 2010 Fall Term
THEO 8011 Advanced Hebrew (3 credits)
Reading of selected narrative and poetic books. Advanced grammar.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2020 Spring Term, 2017 Fall Term, 2016 Spring Term
THEO 8012 Aramaic Dialects (3 credits)
Provides the student who already has a background in Biblical Hebrew with a survey of Aramaic dialects, ranging from Ancient Aramaic to Syriac. Includes biblical Aramaic and Qumran Aramaic. Emphasis on providing the student with the tools to use these dialects in other biblical courses.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Fall Term, 2016 Fall Term, 2009 Fall Term, 2007 Spring Term
THEO 8120 Sources of Pentateuchal Thought (3 credits)
Detailed study of the first five books of the Old Testament. Exegesis of selected passages.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Fall Term, 2016 Spring Term, 2013 Fall Term, 2010 Fall Term
THEO 8121 Prophetic Books of Ancient Israel (3 credits)
Key themes in the prophetic movement. Relation of the prophets to the cult, society, and history of ancient Israel.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2014 Spring Term, 2012 Spring Term
THEO 8122 Psalms and Religion of Ancient Israel (3 credits)
A study of the literary, theological, and historical dimensions of the book of Psalms. Relationship between the psalms and cultic life.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2017 Fall Term, 2016 Spring Term, 2007 Spring Term, 2001 Fall Term
THEO 8123 Former Prophets: Historical Books (3 credits)
Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings. The structure, sources, narrative technique, and theology of the Deuteronomistic corpus. Hebrew text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2010 Spring Term, 2005 Spring Term, 1997 Spring Term, 1991 Fall Term
THEO 8124 Wisdom Books of Ancient Israel (3 credits)
Study of the place of Wisdom Literature in the development of Hebrew thought. Exegesis of selected passages.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Spring Term, 2016 Fall Term, 2009 Spring Term, 2006 Spring Term
THEO 8125 Intertestamental Literature (3 credits)
Study of the books of the Old Testament Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha. Other developments of the period. Exegesis of selected passages.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Fall Term, 2018 Spring Term, 2016 Spring Term, 2014 Spring Term
THEO 8126 Judaism in the Hellenistic Era (3 credits)
Jewish history, institutions, movements, and writings of this period, including Qumran, as they pertain to biblical studies. Jewish interpretation of scripture; midrash; haggadah and halakah; targums; Hellenistic influences on Judaism in Palestine and the diaspora; other related topics.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2017 Fall Term, 2014 Fall Term, 2011 Spring Term
THEO 8127 The Writings (3 credits)
An investigation into some of the other books of the Hebrew Bible beyond Torah and Prophets. May include literary, theological, and historical elements of "The Five Scrolls," Daniel, Ezra-Nehemiah, I and II Chronicles.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8130 Qumran and the Dead Sea Scrolls (3 credits)
Overview of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Qumran community. Covers major texts, contexts and interpretive issues in Qumran research, as well as their application to contemporary critical scholarship on the Hebrew Scriptures, the New Testament, early Judaism and early Christianity.
Prerequisite: Admitted to REST-Ph.D. program or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term, 2020 Spring Term
THEO 8150 Special Questions in Old Testament Studies (3 credits)
Specialized research on topics or problems within and/or related to the Old Testament writings.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2015 Fall Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2003 Spring Term, 1993 Spring Term
THEO 8210 Intensive Hellenistic Greek Grammar (3 credits)
An introduction to the Greek of the Hellenistic era, including the New Testament. Emphasis on grammar, syntax, vocabulary acquisition and historical context and theology.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term, 2019 Spring Term, 2017 Spring Term, 2015 Spring Term
THEO 8211 Advanced Hellenistic Greek (3 credits)
Advanced grammar; readings in texts from 300 B.C. to 300 A.D. Emphasis on the language of the New Testament as reflective of continuity and change in Greek vocabulary, morphology, syntax, style, and the historical context and theology of these texts.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2019 Fall Term, 2018 Spring Term
THEO 8310 Hellenistic Backgrounds to the New Testament (3 credits)
Introduction to various Graeco-Roman issues and movements which influenced the development of New Testament writings. Study of traditional religion, mystery cults, philosophical schools, astrology and magic, literary genres and tendencies, and other related topics.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Fall Term, 1986 Spring Term
THEO 8311 Apocalyptic Literature (3 credits)
Origin and development of prophetic and apocalyptic eschatology. The social and religious phenomenon of apocalypticism. The genre "apocalypse" in Jewish and early Christian tradition.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2019 Fall Term, 2017 Spring Term, 2015 Spring Term
THEO 8312 Formation of the Gospel Tradition (3 credits)
Literary interrelationship of the four Gospels. Theories of Gospel priority and dependence. Development of oral and written traditions. Distinctive character of the Gospel form. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2019 Spring Term, 2011 Spring Term, 2004 Fall Term
THEO 8313 Matthew (3 credits)
Formation, structure, and style of the Gospel of Matthew. Redactional and literary analysis of the Gospel to reconstruct the theology and the situation which produced it. Exegesis of selected passages. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2006 Fall Term, 2002 Fall Term, 2000 Fall Term, 1999 Summer Term
THEO 8314 Mark (3 credits)
Formation, structure, and style of the Gospel of Mark. Redactional and literary analysis of the Gospel to reconstruct the theology and the situation which produced it. Exegesis of selected passages. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2005 Spring Term, 2000 Spring Term, 1997 Spring Term, 1994 Spring Term
THEO 8315 Luke-Acts (3 credits)
Formation, structure, and style of Luke-Acts. Redactional and literary analysis of these two volumes to reconstruct the theology and the situation which produced them. Questions of Christian origins. Exegesis of selected passages. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Spring Term, 2014 Fall Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2008 Fall Term
THEO 8316 The Johannine Tradition (3 credits)
Formation, structure, and style of the Gospel of John. Source, redaction, and literary analysis to reconstruct the stages of formation and their corresponding theologies. Relation of the Johannine letters to the Gospel. Exegesis of selected passages. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2013 Fall Term, 2010 Spring Term
THEO 8317 Letter to the Romans (3 credits)
Background and purpose of this letter. Examination of important Pauline themes, issues, and methods of argumentation. Exegesis of selected passages. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2020 Fall Term, 2015 Spring Term, 2011 Fall Term
THEO 8318 The Corinthian Correspondence (3 credits)
Study of I and/or II Corinthians in the context of Paul's pastoral relationship to Corinth. Integrity, background and purpose of the letters. Examination of important themes, issues, and methods of argumentation. Exegesis of selected passages. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Spring Term, 2007 Spring Term, 2000 Fall Term, 1997 Spring Term
THEO 8319 Shorter Pauline Letters (3 credits)
Study of one or more of the following letters: Galatians, Philippians, I and II Thessalonians, and Philemon. Background and purpose of these writings. Examination of important Pauline themes, issues, and methods of argumentation. Exegesis of selected passages. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2010 Fall Term, 2006 Spring Term, 2004 Spring Term, 1997 Fall Term
THEO 8320 Colossians and Ephesians (3 credits)
Authorship, milieu, and purpose of these letters. Their relationship to one another and to other Pauline traditions. Review of critical issues and examination of theological themes and methods of argumentation. Exegesis of selected passages. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2002 Fall Term, 1995 Spring Term, 1991 Spring Term, 1986 Spring Term
THEO 8321 Later New Testament Writings (3 credits)
Study of one or more of the following New Testament texts: I and II Timothy; Titus; Hebrews; James; I and II Peter; I, II, and III John; Jude; and Revelation 1-3. Background, purpose, and theology of these writings. Exegesis of key passages. Relationship of these works to selected non-canonical writings. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Fall Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2006 Fall Term
THEO 8350 Special Questions in New Testament Studies (3 credits)
Specialized research on topics or problems within and/or related to the New Testament writings. Greek text used.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or THEO 6120 and cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2015 Fall Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2009 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term
THEO 8410 Ecclesiastical Historiography (3 credits)
The interpretation of the history of the Church and of doctrine as seen by ecclesiastical historians from Eusebius to Harnack; their characteristic approaches and concerns. Recent trends in historiography and historical theology.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2003 Spring Term, 1996 Spring Term, 1994 Spring Term, 1991 Spring Term
THEO 8411 History of Christian Thought 1: The Age of the Fathers (3 credits)
A study of the development of Christian beliefs and doctrines in the patristic age. The following themes are treated: the authority of Scripture and tradition; Father, Word, Spirit, and the divine Triad; the person of Jesus the Christ; sin, redemption and grace; the Church and the sacraments.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2017 Fall Term, 2008 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term, 2002 Fall Term
THEO 8412 History of Christian Thought 2: Byzantine Tradition (3 credits)
Survey of Greek theology from Nicea (325 A.D.) to the fall of Constantinople (1453). Particular attention to the most important writers following the Council of Chalcedon, beginning with Dionysius Areopagita and concluding with Gregory Palamas and Nicholas Cabasilas. Focus on the abiding Greek preoccupation with salvation as deification and its contribution to the continuity of Eastern Christian thought.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Spring Term, 2016 Fall Term, 2006 Fall Term, 2003 Spring Term
THEO 8413 History of Christian Thought 3: The Middle Ages (3 credits)
A study of the development of Christian theology from Augustine to Thomas Aquinas. Includes the following themes: the character and method of theology after Augustine; monastic theology; the early Eucharistic controversies; reason, logic, and the origins of Scholasticism; 12th century humanism and theology; Scholasticism; and Thomism.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Fall Term, 2007 Spring Term, 2006 Spring Term, 2004 Spring Term
THEO 8414 History of Christian Thought 4: The Later Middle Ages and the Reformation (3 credits)
Theological pluralism of the 13th-15th centuries. Thomism and nominalism, mysticism and humanism, conciliarism, Augustinianism. Reform, questions of authority, faith, catholicity. Sixteenth century responses. Luther to Calvin, Muenster to Menno Simons, early Roman Catholic polemical theology to Trent.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2007 Fall Term, 2007 Spring Term, 2003 Fall Term, 2002 Fall Term
THEO 8415 History of Christian Thought 5: The Modern Era (3 credits)
A study of major developments in Christian life and thought in the 17th-19th centuries in Europe, with a focus on intellectual history. Jansenism and Cartesianism; the impact of Enlightenment thought. The Romantic revivals of theology in Schleiermacher and the Tubingen Schools. German Idealism and its debacle. Biblical criticism. Varieties of 19th century options in theology.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2012 Fall Term, 2010 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term, 2004 Fall Term
THEO 8416 History of Christian Thought 6: Theology in America (3 credits)
An analysis of developments in American theology from Puritanism to the present. Examines representative theologians of Puritanism, revivalism, enlightenment, progressive orthodoxy, social gospel, modernism, Americanism, and neo-orthodoxy within the context of American political and social movements. Themes considered: the church, grace, religious liberty, church and state, voluntaryism, person of Jesus, tradition, adaptation.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2013 Spring Term, 2008 Fall Term, 2005 Spring Term, 2002 Spring Term
THEO 8417 The Apostolic Fathers and the Apologists (3 credits)
A study of the Christian writings of the 2nd century, especially Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, the Epistle of Barnabas, the Didache, the Greek apologists, and Irenaeus, with particular attention to their relation to the Old and New Testaments, the doctrine of the Logos, Church order, and the emerging understanding of orthodoxy and heresy.; may not be taken for credit by students who have taken the same course as THEO 8415.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2012 Spring Term, 2007 Spring Term, 2000 Fall Term, 1995 Fall Term
THEO 8418 Clement, Origen and the Alexandrian Tradition (3 credits)
Against the background of Clement's attempt to incorporate Greek modes of thought into Christianity, an extensive study of Origen as a biblical commentator and the first systematic theologian, with some consideration of the neoplatonic tradition in Christianity, Origen's influence on later theology, and the Origenist controversies.; may not be taken for credit by students who have taken the same course as THEO 8417.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2009 Fall Term, 2003 Fall Term, 1999 Spring Term
THEO 8419 The Greek Fathers of the Fourth Century (3 credits)
Reading and study of some of the writings of Athanasius, Basil the Great, Gregory of Nazianzus, Gregory of Nyssa and others, with attention given to the Trinitarian controversies of the 4th century, the councils of Nicea and Constantinople, and the rise and fall of Arianism.; may not be taken for credit by students who have taken the same course as THEO 8418.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term, 2019 Fall Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2010 Fall Term
THEO 8420 History and Theology of the New Testament Canon (3 credits)
The Septuagint as the first Christian Bible; authority for religious truth in the Apostolic Fathers and the Apologists; evidence for the liturgical use of Christian writings; the apocryphal New Testament; the canon of four gospels; the collection of the Apostles' letters; lists of canonical books; the beginnings of exegesis; modern theological speculation on the canon.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 1997 Spring Term, 1987 Spring Term
THEO 8421 Augustine of Hippo (3 credits)
An intensive study of Augustine's life, writings and thought. Topics include: the influence of neoplatonism on Augustine, the stages of his conversion, the implications of the Donatist controversy for his views on the Church and the sacraments, and the controversy with Pelagius on grace and predestination.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2017 Spring Term, 2012 Fall Term, 2009 Spring Term, 2005 Spring Term
THEO 8422 Monastic Theology (3 credits)
Proposes a reading of the classical "canon" of early monastic literature. Beginning with a few sessions devoted to sources, the course moves to the early Syrians, notably Aphrahat of Persia and Ephrem Syrus, and then to the better-known and enormously influential "Vita Antonii," the several "Vitae" of Pachomius, the "History of the Monks of Egypt," Basil the Great's "Longer and Shorter Rules," Gregory of Nyssa, Evagrius of Pontus, the "Macarian Homilies," such early 5th century works as Palladius of Hieropolis' "Lausiac History," John Casian's "Institutes" and "Conferences," Theodoret of Cyrrhus' "Historia religosa," and the "Sayings of the Desert Fathers." Concludes with an examination of Benedict of Nursia's "Life" (by Gregory the Great) and "Rule."
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2015 Spring Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2010 Spring Term
THEO 8423 Theology in the Twelfth Century (3 credits)
Survey of theology in monasteries and cathedral schools, from the Gregorian Reform to Alan of Lille, including; e.g., Anselm of Canterbury, Peter Abelard, Bernard of Clairvaux, the Victorines, Peter Lombard.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Spring Term, 2005 Spring Term, 2002 Fall Term, 1996 Spring Term
THEO 8424 The Theology of Thomas Aquinas (3 credits)
The critical reading of the texts of Aquinas in developmental sequence with emphasis on the character of the Summa theologiae.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2018 Fall Term, 2016 Fall Term, 2015 Spring Term
THEO 8425 The Theology of Bonaventure (3 credits)
Readings and study of both the academic and the mystical writings of Bonaventure, with special emphasis on the Breviloquium.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Spring Term, 2011 Fall Term, 2008 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term
THEO 8426 The Study of the Bible in the Middle Ages (3 credits)
Medieval exegesis from the Carolingian renaissance to the 13th century, with special attention to the relationship between scripture commentaries and systematic theologies; the multiple senses of Scripture in theory and practice; authors include; e.g., Rupert of Deutz, Bernard of Clairvaux, the Victorines, Aquinas and his teachers.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2018 Spring Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2006 Fall Term
THEO 8427 Late Medieval Augustinianism (3 credits)
Revival of Augustinian thought. Wyclif, Hus to Bradwardine. Via Gregorii. Commentaries on St. Augustine. Anti-Pelagianism and Donatism. Mediation of Augustinian thought to subsequent periods.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2008 Spring Term, 2005 Spring Term, 1993 Fall Term, 1991 Fall Term
THEO 8428 Interpretation of the Bible in the Renaissance and Reformation (3 credits)
Hermeneutical developments from the Victorines. Sources and methods for interpreting historical exegesis. Humanist work on Scripture. The place of the Bible in theology. Luther as doctor of Scripture. Trent and Bible study.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2008 Fall Term, 2004 Spring Term, 1997 Fall Term, 1993 Spring Term
THEO 8429 Erasmus (3 credits)
Biography and developments of his thought. Study of Scripture and the classics. Commentaries on Scripture. Philosophia Christi. Changing attitudes toward Erasmus.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2003 Fall Term, 1994 Spring Term, 1987 Fall Term
THEO 8430 Luther (3 credits)
Developments of Luther's thought in relation to medieval theology. Influence of nominalism and mysticism on Luther. Origins of his hermeneutic and doctrine of justification. Importance of his theology of reformation, law/gospel, and man.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term, 2020 Spring Term, 2017 Fall Term, 2012 Spring Term
THEO 8431 Calvin (3 credits)
Biography and development of his major writings. Systematic construction of the Institutes of the Christian Religion. Calvin on Scripture, sanctification and predestination, and early results in Calvinism.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2011 Spring Term, 2007 Spring Term, 2004 Fall Term, 1999 Fall Term
THEO 8432 Council of Trent (3 credits)
The positive contribution of Trent to the history of Christian thought. The "medieval" and "modern" character of the council. Trent's understanding of the reformers, and the question of "Counter-Reformation." Trent's position on Scripture and tradition, and its justification.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Fall Term, 2010 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term, 2000 Spring Term
THEO 8433 Theological Thought of the Enlightenment and the Nineteenth Century (3 credits)
Important theological developments, including movements and thinkers, in both the Catholic and Protestant traditions, in both Europe and America from the beginning of the Modern Era. Possible movements to be covered in this order: Deism, Rational Supernaturalism, Pietism, Romanticism, Speculative Idealism, French Catholic Thought (Traditionalism, Fideism), Oxford Movement, Tubingen School, Protestant Liberalism, Biblical Criticism and Darwinism, Ultramontanism and Neo-Thomism, Roman Catholic Thought and Modernism, Existentialism, and Atheism. Possible figures covered: Herbert of Cherbury, Tillotson, Locke, Toland, Tindal, Voltaire, Wolff, Semler, Reimarus, Lessing, Rousseau, Butler, Hume, Kant, Jacobi, Hamann, Herder, Coleridge, Schleiermacher, Busnell, Hegel, F. C. Baur, Biedermann, John and Edward Caird, Chateaubriand, Maistre, Lamennais, Bautain, Keble, Newman, Williams, Pusey, Drey, Mohler, Strauss, Feuerbach, Marx, Williams, Goodwin, Jowett, Darwin, Moore, Hodge, Abbott, Ritschl, Herrmann, Harnack, Rauschenbusch, Hodge, Warfield, Leo XIII, Mercier, Garrigou-Lagrange, Olle-Laprune, Blondel, Laberthonniere, Loisy, Le Roy, Tyrrell, Kierkegaard, Nietzsche. Not all significant movements and thinkers are covered in one term.'s (i.e., the master's-level introductory courses), unless the student has passed out of this material on the M.A. Exam.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Spring Term, 2011 Spring Term, 2008 Spring Term, 2000 Fall Term
THEO 8434 Schleiermacher (3 credits)
A close reading of the most important theological works of F.D.E. Schleiermacher (1768-1834), the "father of modern theology," with a view to understanding the basic concepts and historical development of Schleiermacher's thought within the context of post-Enlightenment European philosophical-theological ideas and movements.'s (i.e., the master's-level introductory courses on the history of theology), unless the student has passed out of this material on the M.A. Exam.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2017 Spring Term, 2015 Spring Term, 2006 Fall Term, 2001 Spring Term
THEO 8435 Images of the Church through the Ages (3 credits)
Covers the historical journey of the Christian church as it began and developed through its leading images/symbols/models.'s (i.e., the master's-level introductory courses), unless the student has passed out of this material on the M.A. Exam.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Spring Term, 2002 Spring Term, 1994 Fall Term, 1991 Spring Term
THEO 8436 The Roman Catholic Modernist Crisis (3 credits)
Modernist controversies as the explosion of tensions long building between liberalism and orthodoxy, immanentist and extrinsecist religious thought, and tradition and critical history before and after 1900. An interpretation of the episodes in Roman Catholic theology (concerning Loisy, Blondel, von Hugel, Tyrrell) that formed the backdrop to the generation of Vatican II.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2009 Spring Term, 2006 Spring Term, 2005 Spring Term, 2002 Spring Term
THEO 8437 Theology of Jonathan Edwards (3 credits)
Examines Edwards' major theological works and analyzes his chief contributions to American theology. Particular focus on Edwards' understanding of God, original sin, the atonement, freedom, religious experience, true virtue, providence, and the millennium.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2005 Fall Term, 2000 Spring Term, 1992 Spring Term
THEO 8438 Theology in the American Enlightenment (3 credits)
Examines how the Enlightenment influenced Christian thought in the United States between 1700 and 1830, paying special attention to the issues raised by critical reason relative to the understanding of revelation, Christ, the supernatural, church and state, and Christians; e.g., the Unitarian W.E. Channing, the Princetonian Presbyterian C. Hodge, and the Catholic J. England.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2004 Fall Term, 1988 Fall Term
THEO 8439 Theology and Romanticism in the United States (3 credits)
Examines representative American Protestant and Catholic theologies that were most directly influenced by Romanticism; e.g., the Transcendentalism of R. W. Emerson and T. Parker, the Progressive Orthodoxy of H. Bushnell, the Mercersbury Theology of W. Nevin and P. Schaff, the Ontologism and moderate traditionalism of O. Brownson and I. Hecker, the Confessionalism of C. P. Krauth. Concentration upon the roles these theologians assigned to revelation, divine immanence in history, church and society, religious intuition, ecclesiastical and confessional authority.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2003 Fall Term, 1998 Spring Term, 1989 Spring Term
THEO 8440 American Catholic Theology (3 credits)
A historical examination of the theologies of American Catholics from John Carroll to John Courtney Murray. Analysis of major pastoral and systematic theologians (e.g., John England, Francis P. Kenrick, Orestes Brownson, Isaac Hecker, John Ireland, John A. Ryan, Gustave Weigel) within the context of American and European theological developments. Examination of American Catholic perceptions of Christology, grace, ecclesiology, church-state relations, social thought, the Bible, and modern sciences with a focus upon the relationship of religion and republicanism.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Spring Term, 2011 Fall Term, 2009 Spring Term, 2006 Spring Term
THEO 8441 The Social Gospel in American Theologies (3 credits)
Examinations of the social thought of representative American Protestants and Catholics of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, concentrating upon the various perceptions of Christianity's relationship to the social and economic problems of the day. Analysis of the works of Washington Gladden, Richard Ely, Josiah Strong, Walter Rauschenbusch, Edward McGlynn, John A. Ryan, Paul H. Furfey, Dorothy Day, and Virgil Michel.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 1991 Fall Term
THEO 8442 Dionysius the Areopagite: Father of Mysticism? (3 credits)
Intended to be primarily a close reading of (Pseudo-) Dionysius the Aeropagite (ca. 500), whose small corpus of works profoundly influenced subsequent Christian thought. Analyzes his background, his treatises and "epistles," noting his sources and parallels in preceding and contemporary Christian, pagan Neoplatonist, and Jewish mystical literature. Also traces out the Dionysian "trajectory" in selected later Eastern Christian writers.
Prerequisite: THEO 6210 and cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8443 Symeon the New Theologian-Sources and Heirs (3 credits)
Examines Symeon the New Theologian (949-1022), the most striking and attractive of the Byzantine spiritual writers, who too often is treated somewhat in isolation from the sources and currents which feed him. Begins with 5th century writers such as Diadochus of Photiki and Mark the Monk, runs through Dionysius, Maximus, and John of the Ladder in the 6th-7th centuries (possibly including the "Gaza School" and Palestinian monasticism), and continues through Symeon, to the Hesychasts of the 14th and 15th centuries, notably Gregory of Sinai and Gregory Palamas.
Prerequisite: THEO 6210 and cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8444 PreNicene Ascetical and Mystical Literature (3 credits)
A survey of Christian literature primarily from East of the Adriatic (at least as presently constituted), dealing with asceticism and the "visio Dei." Begins with Old Testament materials, looks at intertestamental literature including the Qumran Scrolls, and trajectories extending from the Second Temple to Rabbinic-era, Jewish mystical texts. Then moves to the New Testament, with special attention to Paul and Luke-Acts, and continues through the early martyrologies and New Testament apocrypha, in particular the apocryphal acts of the Apostles, and early Manichean materials. Concludes with the Alexandrians, Clement and Origen, and possibly Methodius of Olympus at the turn of the 4th century.
Prerequisite: THEO 6210 and cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2009 Fall Term
THEO 8445 The Development of Roman Catholic Theology from the Enlightenment to the Present (3 credits)
Focuses on the historical development of Roman Catholic theology from the Enlightenment to the present. Treats movements such as French Romanticism, Gallicanism, Ultramontanism, Newmanism, Modernism, New Theology and Transcendental Thomism, Vatican II and post-Vatican II developments. Treats the thought of selected Roman Catholic theologians. In the 19th century: French theologians Chateaubriand, de Maistre, Lamennais, Bautain; the Tubingen theologians (e.g., Drey, Mohler); Newman and the Oxford Movement; the New Apologetics (e.g., Blondel, Laberthonniere); the "Modernists" (e.g., Loisy, Tyrrell). In the 20th century: New Theology and Transcendental Thomism (e.g., Rousselot, Marechal, de Lubac, Karl Rahner, Lonergan, Schillebeeckx); Liturgical Movement (e.g., Jungmann, Casel, Dix); Vatican II and Aggiornamento (e.g., Congar, Kung, Courtney Murray, Balthasar, Ratzinger); Political and Liberation Theologies (e.g., Metz, Gutierrez, Segundo, Leonard Boff); Feminist Theology (e.g., Schussler Fiorenza, Radford Ruether, Pilar Aquino).'s (i.e., the master's-level introductory courses), unless the student has passed out of this material on the M.A. Exam.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2017 Spring Term, 2014 Fall Term, 2011 Fall Term
THEO 8446 History of Christian Theology in the Twentieth Century (3 credits)
Possible schools/movements and figures to be covered: Eschatological school (J. Weiss, Schweitzer), Religionsgeschichtliche Schule (Troeltsch), American Empiricism and Naturalism (William James, D.C. Macinosh, Dewey, Wieman), Dialectical Theology (Barth, Brunner, Gogarten, Bonhoeffer), Christian Existentialism (Marcel, Tillich, Bultmann), Christian Realism (H.R. Niebuhr, Reinhold Niebuhr), the Nouvelle Theologie and Transcendental Thomism (Rousselot, Marechal, de Lubac, K. Rahner, Lonergan, Schillebeeckx), Vatican II and renewed Roman Catholic Theology (Congar, John XXIII, Kung, John Courtney Murray, Balthasar, Ratzinger), Political Theology and Liberation Theologies (Metz, Moltmann, Gutierrez, Segundo, L. Boff, Sobrino). Not all of these movements and figures are covered in one term.'s (i.e., the master's-level introductory courses), unless the student has passed out of this material on the M.A. Exam.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8447 Syriac Christianity (3 credits)
Overview of Syriac Christianity and theology. Surveys the origins and development of Christianity in Mesopotamia and Syria through the 7th century. Examines individuals and groups identified with the linguistic, liturgical and cultural traditions of the Syriac language. Analyzes significant figures and literary and theological works in their historical and cultural contexts. Develops critical and analytic skills for reading primary and secondary sources.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8448 Greek East and Latin West (3 credits)
Examines the relations between Western and Eastern Christian traditions with a focus on the period between the Byzantine recapture of Constantinople from the Latins (1261) down to the Antiochian schism of 1724.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8450 Special Questions in the History of Christian Thought: (3 credits)
Specialized research in one area or problem in the history of Christian thought. Specific topic(s) announced.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Fall Term, 2018 Fall Term, 2018 Spring Term, 2017 Fall Term
THEO 8510 Christian Anthropology (3 credits)
Different concepts of anthropology today. The central interest in anthropology in different fields, including philosophy and theology, in the last 50 years. The relationship between anthropology, theology, Christology. Human existence according to the Old and New Testaments. The realities of history, world, and freedom as related to meaning in human existence.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2017 Fall Term, 2015 Spring Term, 2011 Spring Term
THEO 8511 Atheism and Theism (3 credits)
Exploration of the basic theistic and atheistic options regarding the ultimate meaning and value of human life. Socio-cultural and religious roots of these options. Criteria of truth for determining validity. Examination of representative writings, classical and modern, which discuss these options.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2015 Spring Term, 2010 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term, 2000 Fall Term
THEO 8512 God in Contemporary Theology (3 credits)
Nineteenth and 20th century roots (philosophical, social, and religious) of present understandings of God. Classical and contemporary discussion of the nature and validity of theistic language.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Spring Term, 2008 Fall Term, 2002 Spring Term, 2000 Summer Term
THEO 8513 The Structure of Religious Experience (3 credits)
Analysis of the structure of religious experience and related phenomena as explored through a variety of perspectives, such as philosophy, sociology, psychology, and theology. The nature and function of religion in human life in relation to the individual and social development of the human person.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2006 Spring Term, 2001 Spring Term, 1995 Spring Term, 1993 Spring Term
THEO 8514 Hermeneutic Theory and Theological Method (3 credits)
Nineteenth century hermeneutical discussion. Contemporary hermeneutical inquiries and their methodological implications for theology. Phenomenology and hermeneutical theory. Bultmannian and post-Bultmannian developments. Hermeneutics and the critique of ideologies. Points of contact between hermeneutics and linguistic analysis.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2015 Spring Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2008 Spring Term
THEO 8515 Philosophy as Source and Resource for Theology (3 credits)
Critical examination of philosophical texts which have played an important role in framing theological questions and discussions; of representative theological texts for how philosophical issues and presuppositions bear on their interpretation; of representative accounts (historical and contemporary) of the relationship between theology and philosophy.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Fall Term, 2014 Fall Term, 2010 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term
THEO 8516 The Trinity (3 credits)
Historical and systematic presentation of the doctrine of the Trinity. The development of this doctrine in early Christian history. The notions of substance, person, procession, relation, and communion as they occur in patristic tradition and in later Scholastic theology. Other approaches to this doctrine in the light of contemporary philosophy and theology. Role of this doctrine in contemporary Christian experience.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Fall Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2011 Fall Term, 2010 Spring Term
THEO 8517 Christology (3 credits)
Historical and systematic presentation of the doctrine of the Incarnation. Christ, the Mediator between God and humanity, as the fullness of all revelation. Christology in the New Testament. The development of the doctrine of the Incarnation in the Christian church with special attention given to the councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon, Scholastic theology, and contemporary approaches to the mystery of Jesus.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Fall Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2010 Fall Term, 2008 Fall Term
THEO 8518 Soteriology (3 credits)
Specific redemptive function of Jesus Christ and then of the Christian community, the sacraments and the world in which one lives. Grace and human development. Salvation as a personal and societal reality; redemption of the social order. Salvation of the nonbeliever, in particular the relationship between salvation and revelation.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2017 Spring Term, 2009 Spring Term, 2006 Fall Term, 1997 Fall Term
THEO 8519 Ecclesiology (3 credits)
Biblical understanding of the Christian community. Development of the institutional church through history. Current theological models of the church. Current discussion of the mission, functions, and structures of the church in the world today. The relation of the Christian churches to one another.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Fall Term, 2014 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term
THEO 8520 Theology of Christian Liturgy (3 credits)
A systematic study of the Church at prayer in Trinitarian and ecumenical perspectives. The Church's faith in God's saving action through its own ritual self-offering seen in light of human sciences, phenomenology and Christian doctrine. Liturgy examined as symbolic communication, as actualization of Christian community, and in its relationship to the rest of Christian life and theology.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2010 Spring Term, 2006 Fall Term, 2005 Spring Term, 2003 Spring Term
THEO 8521 Christian Eschatology (3 credits)
Analysis of Biblical and historical forms of Christian eschatology. Comparison of Christian perspectives with cyclic approaches to history and apocalyptic approaches to the end of history. The centrality of eternal life to the Christian message of the Kingdom of God. Resurrection as the principal locus of Christian expectations.
Prerequisite: REST-Phd student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2012 Fall Term, 2007 Spring Term, 1996 Spring Term, 1989 Spring Term
THEO 8522 Major Figures in Modern Theology (3 credits)
Intensive examination of the writings of a thinker who has had a significant impact on theology within the last hundred years. Focuses on the primary texts of a particular theologian or school of thought. Also assesses their contribution to theology and the life of the Church and examines critical evaluations.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Spring Term, 2018 Spring Term, 2017 Spring Term, 2013 Fall Term
THEO 8523 Doctrinal Themes in Contemporary Protestant Systematic Theology (3 credits)
Analysis and evaluation of important contemporary Protestant systematic theologians in terms of a single theme or related set of themes to be chosen by the instructor.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2013 Fall Term, 2005 Spring Term, 2003 Fall Term, 1998 Spring Term
THEO 8524 Doctrinal Themes in Contemporary Roman Catholic Systematic Theology (3 credits)
Analysis and evaluation of important contemporary Roman Catholic systematic theologians in terms of a single theme or related set of themes to be chosen by the instructor.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Fall Term, 2014 Spring Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2011 Spring Term
THEO 8525 Theological Method: Interdisciplinary Implications (3 credits)
Exploration of methodological interrelations between theology and other academic disciplines in terms of a single theme or related set of themes to be chosen by the instructor.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2009 Fall Term, 2008 Fall Term, 2006 Fall Term, 2003 Fall Term
THEO 8526 Fundamental Themes in the Theology of Bernard Lonergan (3 credits)
Study of major texts of Bernard Lonergan. Themes vary: grace, Trinity, Christology, method. Also considers developments by other authors.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2020 Spring Term
THEO 8527 Fundamental Themes in the Theology of Karl Rahner (3 credits)
Intensive examination of major themes and texts in Karl Rahner's writings. Focuses on the primary texts, assesses their contribution to theology and the life of the Church and examines critical evaluations.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2012 Fall Term, 2007 Fall Term
THEO 8528 Theology of Karl Barth (3 credits)
An examination of Karl Barth's major texts, primarily, but not exclusively, his Church Dogmatics. Themes may include his Christology, method, moral theology and/or political theology. An examination of his relation to those who came before him, those against whom he reacted, as well as those who developed his thought in the 20th and 21st century.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8529 Nouvelle Theologie (3 credits)
A study of the theological movement of the 20th century known as "la nouvelle théologie" or "ressourcement" that reacted to neo-scholasticism and sought to reunify theology through a reappropriation of the sources - the liturgy, Scriptures, and the Early Church Fathers. Representative figures include Henri de Lubac, Jean Daniélou, Henri Bouillard, Yves Congar, Louis Bouyer, Marie-Dominique Chenu, and Hans Urs von Balthasar.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Fall Term, 2013 Spring Term
THEO 8530 Theology of the Holy Spirit (3 credits)
An examination of the biblical, historical and systematic aspects of pneumatology. Attention given to the Holy Spirit and the doctrine of the Trinity with consideration of the ecumenical implications of the Filioque, the Spirit in creation and redemption, the mission of the Holy Spirit relative to that of the Son, and the importance of pneumatology for the entire spectrum of Christian doctrine.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8531 Theology of Grace (3 credits)
An examination of the doctrine of grace in its historical developments and in contemporary systematic theology. Attention given to the following: nature and grace, distinctions in the types and modalities of grace, grace and human freedom/predestination, justification and sanctification, grace in the church and the world. Also includes consideration of ecumenical convergences and/or divergences (Catholic and Protestant, Eastern and Western Churches).
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8532 Ecumenism (3 credits)
A study of ecumenism, the efforts of the Christian churches to restore unity, ecumenical principles, the nature, goal and reception of dialogues, major Catholic encyclicals and directives on ecumenism, and significant recent ecumenical agreements between churches. An assessment of the points of ecumenical convergence and remaining differences on select doctrinal topics involving the Catholic Church.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2011 Fall Term
THEO 8533 Christians and Muslims in Dialogue (3 credits)
A survey of the efforts made to advance Muslim-Christian relations. An examination of joint declarations issued by formal dialogues as well as select individual contributions of Muslim and Christian scholars. Primary attention to those dialogues sponsored by the sub-unit on Dialogue with Peoples of Living Faiths of the World Council of Churches, and the Pontifical Council of Interreligious Dialogue. Includes dialogues co-sponsored and/or organized by Muslim organizations.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term, 2019 Fall Term, 2017 Spring Term
THEO 8534 Fundamental Theology (3 credits)
A historical and systematic study of the fundamentals of theology: faith, revelation, tradition, and Church. Attention given to: faith as the response to revelation, the connection between faith and reason, revelation as God's self-communication, the relationship between scripture and tradition, and the role of the magisterium in preserving and interpreting sacred scripture and tradition.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Fall Term
THEO 8535 Public Theology in Postmodern Context (3 credits)
The interpretation and application of the gospel to a given cultural context in the light of Scripture and Tradition. Not identical with the normative reflections of social ethics nor assuming the narratives of liberation and political theology, public theology focuses on public issues for the sake of the churches and on Christian meanings for the sake of the public square and the common good.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8536 Theology of Hans Urs von Balthasar (3 credits)
Study of the major texts of Hans Urs von Balthasar, with special attention given to his trilogy. Possible themes include: Balthasar's elucidation of beauty as essential to theological discourse, Balthasar's efforts to reunite theology and spirituality through the fundamental connection between holiness and the theological enterprise, and Balthasar's Christological and Trinitarian theological method. A consideration of Balthasar's contribution to theology today.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Spring Term
THEO 8537 Theology of Jürgen Moltmann (3 credits)
An examination of the theology of Jürgen Moltmann, both in its development and in its major themes. An emphasis on the close connection between theology and practice in Moltmann and the way his work represents a specific understanding of the task of theology.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8538 African Christianity (3 credits)
An introduction to the key components, characteristics, and features of Christian theologizing in Africa. Further studies other relevant aspects of African theology, including religion and politics, comparative and applied ethics, the places of other African religions (especially traditional religions), and the contributions of African Christianity to global Christianity.
Prerequisite: Admitted to REST-Ph.D. program or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8539 World Christianity (3 credits)
An introduction to Christianity in the contemporary global context. Addresses the dynamism of Christianity’s ongoing expansion, commonalities and differences in its expression, and the impact of its disparate contexts and situations on the mutual influence between Christianity and its neighboring world religions and cultures.
Prerequisite: Admitted to REST-Ph.D. program or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8540 Interfacing Theology and the Natural Sciences (3 credits)
Ways in which theology and the natural sciences (e.g., physics, biology, and geology) have been related historically provide the perspective from which to examine current efforts to reflect on God, the world and humanity in a scientific age. Basic scientific facts and established theories inform theological discourse, and scientists are consulted for more in-depth understanding. Methods for teaching constructive relationship of the disciplines are explored and demonstrated by students.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8550 Special Questions in Systematic Theology (3 credits)
Specialized research in one area or problem in systematic theology. Specific topic(s) announced.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2019 Spring Term, 2018 Spring Term, 2016 Spring Term
THEO 8610 Moral Theology: The Catholic Tradition (3 credits)
General outlines of the development and exposition of Catholic moral theology through an examination of historical studies of Christian Ethics written in the 20th century and of selected original texts. Moral teaching in early Christianity; development of systems of moral teaching; the history of casuistry; moral theology as a separate theological discipline; the understanding of the love commandment as found in different periods.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Spring Term, 2009 Fall Term, 2006 Spring Term, 2003 Spring Term
THEO 8611 The Protestant Tradition in Christian Ethics (3 credits)
Study of selected writings of the Reformers on ethical subjects and of selected ethical writings from important Protestant schools of theology. Representatives of sectarian Protestant thought on ethical topics. Contemporary developments in Christian ethics found in the writings of outstanding Protestant thinkers in this century.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Fall Term, 1987 Spring Term
THEO 8612 Basic Issues in Christian Social Ethics (3 credits)
Social teaching of the Christian churches. A systematic treatment of issues such as the relation between love and justice. The teachings of the Christian churches on matters such as war and peace; the rights and duties of states and citizens; the rights, duties, and obligations of members of a family; the rights, duties, and obligations of parents with respect to their children.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2008 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term, 2003 Fall Term, 2002 Fall Term
THEO 8613 Method in Theological Ethics (3 credits)
Exploration of contemporary developments in methodological approaches to theological ethics. Particular attention to the theological nature of methodology as well as the interrelationship between other academic disciplines and the formation of method in theological ethics.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8614 Health Care Ethics (3 credits)
Exploration of theological perspectives on medicine. Particular attention to thinking on health care within the Catholic tradition, as well as developments across the Christian tradition. Emphasis on theological methodology as well as engagement with select ethical issues in medicine.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term
THEO 8615 Body, Gender and Sexuality (3 credits)
Analysis of how the human person's being a body directs our thinking in Christian theology. Human bodies as essential to what humans are, as both a possible limit on humans and an occasion of transcendence. The body as a source of thinking about persons and how they should act. The nature of sexual differentiation and of gender and implications for Christian anthropology and ethics. Human sexuality and its influence on individuals and communities.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term
THEO 8616 Theology and Economics (3 credits)
A theological evaluation of economic theories and practices, particularly as they bear on the rise and ascendancy of the global market. Includes a history of economic thought with particular attention to moral theory. The tradition of economic thought within Christian theology.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Spring Term, 2012 Fall Term
THEO 8617 Catholic Social Thought (3 credits)
A comprehensive examination of the engagement of Catholic faith with the public square. Detailed analysis of fundamental themes within the Catholic Social Teaching tradition through a study of the documents of the papal encyclical tradition, social thought originating from and upon the U.S. context, and the various interpretations of the Catholic Social Teaching tradition. Consideration of Catholic socio-ethical engagement with emerging concerns in public discourse.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Fall Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2013 Spring Term
THEO 8618 Liberation Ethics and the Option for the Poor (3 credits)
An exploration of the ethical dimensions of liberationist theological reflection, addressing the contributions and challenges to Christian moral discourse, analysis, and reflection, which emerge from the theologies of liberation and their stance of solidarity with the victims of injustice. Attention given to both the commonality and diversity present in this theological movement. Consideration of the implications of the option for the poor for ethical reflection and action.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2009 Fall Term
THEO 8619 Theology, Technology and Ethics (3 credits)
Provides an historical overview of theological discourse on technology, considers effects of current technologies (e.g., biotechnology, social communications, artificial intelligence, energy and transportation), addresses ethical principles pertaining to their research, development, deployment and use from the perspective of Catholic and other Christian traditions, and explores and demonstrates effective methods for teaching this interdisciplinary subject. May include the views of other world religions
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8620 Theology of Creation and Ethics (3 credits)
Explores how the theological traditions of Christianity, Judaism and Islam recognize as moral problems the loss of biological diversity, degradation of ecological systems and threats to the biosphere caused by human actions. Critically examines contemporary theological efforts (e.g., reconstructionist and eco-feminist) to address these problems. Develops effective approaches to teaching at the undergraduate level. The traditions and perspectives of other world religions (e.g., Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism) may be included.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Fall Term
THEO 8621 Virtue Ethics (3 credits)
Covers a range of topics in contemporary reappropriations of virtue ethics, with brief historical background. Includes fundamental virtue theory (Aristotle, Aquinas, MacIntyre’s After Virtue); contemporary contributions to virtue approaches (e.g., biblical virtue ethics, virtue and limits to moral agency) and applied virtue ethics. Both Protestant and Catholic approaches are treated at length.
Prerequisite: Admitted to REST-Ph.D. program or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term
THEO 8622 Freedom, Sin and Conscience (3 credits)
Explores the Christian understanding of the role of freedom in the moral life, paying particular attention to the role of sin in restricting freedom. Examines the theology of conscience and its primacy in theological ethics. Covers controversies emerging from the practical interaction of freedom, sin, and conscience, including the dangers of erroneous conscience, the prospects of collective conscience and the notion of social/structural sin.
Prerequisite: Admitted to REST-Ph.D. program or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
THEO 8650 Special Questions in Moral Theology (3 credits)
Specialized research in one area or problem in moral theology. Specific topic(s)announced.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term, 2019 Spring Term, 2018 Spring Term
THEO 8710 Special Questions in Interdisciplinary Studies (3 credits)
Specialized research in one area or problem in interdisciplinary studies. Specific topic(s) announced.
Prerequisite: REST-PhD student or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2007 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term, 1996 Fall Term, 1992 Fall Term
THEO 8711 Teaching Theology at the College Level (0 credits)
Explores effective means of teaching theology and religion in a liberal arts college setting. Addresses pedagogical techniques, learning styles, course design and assessment. Provides opportunities for new instructors to develop their communication and course management skills and to receive feedback from their students and faculty mentors. S/U grade assessment.
Prerequisite: Admitted to REST-Ph.D. program or cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Fall Term, 2021 Fall Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term
THEO 8995 Independent Study in Theology (1-3 credits)
Faculty-supervised, independent study/research of a specific area or topic in Theology.; cons. of graduate prog. dir.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Fall Term, 2021 Spring Term
THEO 8999 Doctoral Dissertation (1-12 credits)
S/U grade assessment.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Fall Term
THEO 9970 Graduate Standing Continuation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Designated as less than half-time status only, cannot be used in conjunction with other courses, and does not qualify students for financial aid or loan deferment.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term, 2022 Summer Term, 2022 Spring Term
THEO 9974 Graduate Fellowship: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Designated as full-time status. If a student is already registered in other courses full time, this continuation course is not needed.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Fall Term
THEO 9975 Graduate Assistant Teaching: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Designated as full-time status. If a student is already registered in other courses full time, this continuation course is not needed.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Fall Term
THEO 9976 Graduate Assistant Research: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Designated as full-time status. If a student is already registered in other courses full time, this continuation course is not needed.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Spring Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2010 Spring Term, 2009 Fall Term
THEO 9984 Master's Comprehensive Examination Preparation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week toward their master's comprehensive exam.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2015 Spring Term
THEO 9985 Master's Comprehensive Examination Preparation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week toward their master's comprehensive exam. May be taken in conjunction with credit-bearing or other non-credit courses to result in the status indicated, as deemed appropriate by the department.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2017 Spring Term, 2016 Spring Term
THEO 9986 Master's Comprehensive Examination Preparation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week toward their master's comprehensive exam. May be taken in conjunction with credit-bearing or other non-credit courses to result in the status indicated, as deemed appropriate by the department.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2019 Spring Term, 2012 Spring Term
THEO 9987 Doctoral Qualifying Examination Preparation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week toward their doctoral qualifying exam.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2009 Fall Term
THEO 9988 Doctoral Qualifying Examination Preparation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week toward their doctoral qualifying exam. May be taken in conjunction with credit-bearing or other non-credit courses to result in the status indicated, as deemed appropriate by the department.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term, 2017 Fall Term
THEO 9989 Doctoral Qualifying Examination Preparation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week toward their doctoral qualifying exam. May be taken in conjunction with credit-bearing or other non-credit courses to result in the status indicated, as deemed appropriate by the department.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2017 Fall Term, 2017 Spring Term
THEO 9991 Professional Project Continuation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week on their professional project. Any professional project credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Professional Project Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2007 Fall Term
THEO 9992 Professional Project Continuation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week on their professional project. Any project credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Professional Project Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2007 Fall Term
THEO 9993 Professional Project Continuation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week on their professional project. Any professional project credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Professional Project Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2007 Fall Term
THEO 9994 Master's Thesis Continuation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week on their master's thesis. All six thesis credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Master's Thesis Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Summer Term, 2020 Spring Term
THEO 9995 Master's Thesis Continuation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week on their master's thesis. All six thesis credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Master's Thesis Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Summer Term, 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term
THEO 9996 Master's Thesis Continuation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week on their master's thesis. All six thesis credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Master's Thesis Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2018 Summer Term, 2017 Fall Term
THEO 9997 Doctoral Dissertation Continuation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week on their doctoral dissertation. All 12 dissertation credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Doctoral Dissertation Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Fall Term, 2021 Summer Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term
THEO 9998 Doctoral Dissertation Continuation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week on their doctoral dissertation. All 12 dissertation credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Doctoral Dissertation Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Fall Term
THEO 9999 Doctoral Dissertation Continuation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week on their doctoral dissertation. All 12 dissertation credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Doctoral Dissertation Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term, 2022 Summer Term, 2022 Spring Term