COURSES

As an expression of Villanova's Augustinian values and heritage, all Villanova undergraduate students are required to take two Theology and Religious Studies courses to graduate.

Students will select one THL-1000 and one upper-division course. Our scholars are trained in theology, social ethics, history, anthropology, philosophy, literary studies, and race, gender, and sexuality studies, offering a wealth of learning opportunities depending on a student's area of interest.

Course offerings reflect the diversity of our changing global context: 

• Religious diversity: coverage of Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism and indigenous traditions, among others
• Regional diversity: North America, African Diaspora, Europe and Asia 
• Historical diversity: Ancient, medieval and modern periods 
• Social diversity: Race, gender, class, sexuality, politics and economics

Students in the major choose to focus on one of three curricular tracks: Theology and Culture examines the mutual interplay between theology and culture and the practical ways in which they interact in various historical, political, social, and economic contexts. Catholic Studies investigate the distinctive elements of Roman Catholicism, whether ecclesiological, historical, sociological, moral, spiritual, theological, biblical, or liturgical. Global Religious Experience explore Christian and non-Christian religions in a comparative frame, situating beliefs, practices, and experiences deemed “religious” in a broader global context.