Theology
Religious ideas influence all aspects of human life—from armed conflict in the Middle East to marriage equality and climate change. Theology is the study of how people talk about God and, in so doing, talk about justice, truth, right and wrong.
Theology and a more just and humane world
In small classes, you’ll learn from world-class faculty who examine the professional field of theology and how it motivates people’s views of laws, politics, churches and international and intercultural relations. Within their historical, cultural and traditional contexts, you’ll examine the sacred texts, faith traditions and ethical rules of Catholic and other Christian beliefs as well as Islam, Buddhism and other major religious traditions. Your awareness of the religious roots of national and international issues will grow; and you’ll learn to write, discuss and critically engage cultural and individual problems at a whole new level.
More ways to learn, on campus and beyond
Practical experience is built into the theology curriculum. You’ll have many opportunities to combine academic study with compassionate service to people in need, in the Chicago area and around the world. You might complete an internship with an organization that serves homeless youth, or assist a congregation, or both. The university partners with the Interfaith Youth Core, a national organization that brings together young people of different religious and moral traditions for service and dialogue around shared values.
Dominican is the only school in the region where students have the option of completing an accelerated “3-1” program in theology that leads to both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just four years (instead of the usual six years). You’ll earn your bachelor’s at Dominican in three years and—with only one additional year of study—earn your master’s degree in Hispanic Ministry at the prestigious Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. You’ll save not only time but also tuition dollars.
The university provides theology students with outstanding resources, including the St. Catherine of Siena Center, which brings faith and scholarship to the critical issues of church and society, and the Albertus Magnus Society, which explores the intersection of religious belief and scientific insight.
Shantal Cole
Theology Graduate
“My journey at Dominican was just amazing. I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship from the university, and it inspired me to achieve a level of academic success that I never thought possible. Now I want to give something back as a pastor.”
Amazing opportunities
Undergraduate research and creative expression is a Dominican trademark. Theology—with its focus on the deeper unity underlying all reality— is a rich source of topics for such expression. Students have two options for capstone projects. You can engage in supervised ministry projects with diverse communities to receive hands-on experience with real-life problems in caring for others, or work alongside two faculty members to produce your own research on a topic of interest. Recent examples include a study of theology in J. R. R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings and an analysis of the role of women leaders in Hispanic faith traditions.
Prepare for a life of service, meaning and achievement
A survey of U.S. employers by Hart Research Associates found that 93% of bosses say that “a job candidate’s demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly and solve complex problems” is the most important factor in hiring decisions. That is the essential skill set of our theology graduates. Our curriculum is designed to prepare you for lifelong intellectual and professional competence. In the workplace, Dominican graduates know what they’re doing. They’re thoughtful, creative, open to new ideas and able to adapt and thrive through long and meaningful careers. They have earned their way into leadership positions in the professions of their choice.
Brent Smith
Theology Graduate
“Dominican gives proper emphasis to the vision of theology as “faith seeking understanding.” I am indebted to my professors at Dominican for fostering in me a sincere appreciation for the joys of scholarship, done for the sake of recognizing God’s presence in our world.”
