UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS IN THEOLOGY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Theology students sit with their professors.

Our program aims to render faith and religion as intelligible, meaningful, and relevant in diverse contemporary cultural contexts—both locally and globally.

Our programs explore the inter­­sec­tions of Catholic theology, re­ligion, and culture(s). In every­thing, we draw upon the rich le­ga­cy of St. Augus­tine’s pas­­sio­na­te pur­suit of truth, a purposeful en­­dea­vor that evokes the union of mind and heart, links faith with rational reflec­tion and, in dia­lo­gue with culture(s) and other re­li­gious tra­di­tions, builds unity in the midst of diversity. Theological and religious studies as conceived, studied, and ad­vanced at Villanova are inter­dis­ciplinary and inte­gra­tive. Students pursue their objectives from diverse theological and religious perspectives, place them in dialogue with each other, and integrate religious and theological knowledge with experience and other forms of knowing.

 

WHY THEOLOGY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES?

Our programs prepare you for graduate studies and for careers in humanitarian, philanthropic or other nonprofit, charitable organizations. Some graduates work in religious organizations or educational institutes as a campus, youth or parish minister, educator, catechist, retreat worker, administrator, counselor, or spiritual director, or in one of the many other positions such organizations offer.

Want to learn more? Explore our Careers page.

The study of theology and religion enhances the exploration of other fields in science, engineering, business, nursing and the humanities, especially if you plan to enter professions such as law, medicine, business, human services, government, education, journalism and social work, or pursue advanced studies in these and related fields, where broad, interdisciplinary and ethical perspectives matter.

Studying theology and religion prepares you to formulate responses to our world's most demanding questions, that is, for anything that requires intellectual, spiritual and ethical skills. It enriches your intellectual and spiritual life, thoughts and moral choices as you prepare yourself for professional careers.

In addition to nourishing your personal interests, the study of Theology and Religion is rewarding professionally. It enables you to understand the complexities of life on our planet and prepares you to make a positive difference in the world. In fact, employers in a wide range of fields value Theology and Religious Studies majors for being able to think outside of the box.

Our programs prepare you for graduate studies and for careers in humanitarian, philanthropic or other nonprofit, charitable organizations. Some graduates work in religious organizations or educational institutes as a campus, youth or parish minister, educator, catechist, retreat worker, administrator, counselor or spiritual director, or in one of the many other positions such organizations offer

Want to learn more? Explore our Careers page.

Brett Grainger, Th.D.
Associate Professor
Director, Undergraduate Program
brett.grainger@villanova.edu
610-519-6944

Department of Theology and Religious Studies
800 E. Lancaster Ave.
St. Augustine Center Room 203
Villanova, PA 19085

  

    

HEAR FROM THL-1000 FACULTY

Check out the reels on our Instagram account @villanovatheology to hear from three of our faculty about what they hope students will take away from their THL-1000 courses.