Catholic Studies

Program Overview

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Through courses in art, history, literature, and philosophy, students gain a comprehensive perspective on the significant contributions of Catholicism to society and human fulfillment. The program emphasizes critical thinking, intellectual discussions, and a deeper appreciation for the Catholic faith.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Catholic Studies program at StFX utilizes courses in various disciplines such as art, history, literary studies, religious studies, philosophy, and the social sciences. This interdisciplinary approach allows students to gain a broader perspective on the influence of Catholicism in world culture and history, as well as on moral and spiritual life. The program emphasizes the significant contributions of Catholicism to the arts, sciences, society, human fulfillment, and the overall human condition.

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Objectives:

• Provide students with a deeper understanding of Catholic beliefs, traditions, and contributions to contemporary culture.
• Explore the influence of Catholicism on world culture and history.
• Examine moral and spiritual themes from a Catholic perspective.
• Encourage intellectual discussions and critical thinking in relation to Catholicism.
• Foster a deeper appreciation for the Catholic faith and its role in the world.

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Program Description:

The Catholic Studies program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of Catholicism. The program delves into the history of the Catholic Church, its impact on society, and its contributions to art, literature, and philosophy. Students also gain an understanding of Catholic moral teachings and their application to contemporary issues.

• Intimate learning environment: Small class sizes and personalized attention ensure a more engaging and interactive learning experience.
• Exploration of challenging and valuable themes: Students engage with critical questions about human existence, morality, spirituality, and the role of faith in society.
• Experienced faculty: The program boasts accomplished scholars with expertise in various disciplines related to Catholic Studies.
• 2000-year relationship between Catholicism and the Western world: The program acknowledges the deep historical connection between Catholicism and Western society, allowing for a deeper understanding of both.

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Other:

• The program is particularly beneficial for students interested in teaching careers.
• Many professionals in fields such as medicine, law, finance, business, and education find that spiritual study offers valuable insights for their day-to-day work.

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Outline:

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First Year:

• Major developments in the history of the Catholic Church: Students explore topics such as early Christianity, the Papacy, Ecumenical Councils, Mission, Internal Reforms, Reformation and Counter Reformation, the Enlightenment, World Wars, and the Catholic Church today.
• Theological and philosophical themes: Students examine themes like persecution, martyrdom, sin, moral life, death, faith, and divine love.

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Subsequent Years:

• Further exploration of specific topics within Catholic Studies: Students may choose to focus on specific areas of interest such as Catholic art, literature, philosophy, or history.
• In-depth study of primary sources: Students engage with original texts and documents related to their chosen area of focus.
• Independent research projects: Students conduct independent research on a topic of their choosing, culminating in a written thesis or research paper.

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Assessment:

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Assessment methods:

• Essays and research papers: Students demonstrate their understanding of complex concepts through written assignments.
• Presentations and class discussions: Students actively participate in classroom discussions and presentations, fostering critical thinking and communication skills.
• Examinations: Exams assess students' overall knowledge and ability to apply concepts from the course material.

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Assessment criteria:

• Depth of understanding: Students' ability to critically analyze and discuss complex themes and issues related to Catholic Studies.
• Clear and concise writing: Students' ability to communicate their ideas effectively through written assignments.
• Strong research skills: Students' ability to locate, evaluate, and synthesize information from various sources.
• Effective argumentation: Students' ability to develop well-supported arguments based on evidence and logical reasoning.

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Teaching:

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Teaching methods:

• Interactive lectures: Professors use lectures to introduce key concepts and facilitate class discussions.
• Seminars: Small-group seminars encourage in-depth exploration of specific topics and allow for more individualized attention.
• Guest lectures: Experts in various fields are invited to share their knowledge and perspectives with students.
• Field trips and study tours: Students engage in real-world experiences related to their studies.

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Faculty:

The program boasts accomplished scholars with expertise in various disciplines related to Catholic Studies. These include:

• Dr. David Cunning
• Dr. Daniel Doiron
• Dr. Robert Kennedy
• Dr. Margaret MacLean
• Dr. Sarah Murphy

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Unique approaches:

• Interdisciplinary focus: The program integrates various disciplines to provide a holistic understanding of Catholic Studies.
• Focus on primary sources: Students engage with original texts and documents to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
• Emphasis on critical thinking: Students are encouraged to critically analyze and evaluate information, developing their own perspectives on complex issues.

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Careers:

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Career paths:

• Teaching: The program prepares students for careers in teaching at the secondary and post-secondary levels, particularly in Catholic schools and institutions.
• Ministry work: Students may choose to pursue roles in ministry within the Catholic Church or other faith-based organizations.
• Policy and governance: The program equips students with the knowledge and skills to engage in policy development and governance roles in various sectors.
• Religious social worker: Students may choose to pursue careers in social work, focusing on providing support and services to individuals and families from diverse faith backgrounds.
• Careers in various fields: The program provides valuable intellectual and analytical skills that can be applied to a wide range of professional fields, including law, medicine, business, and research.

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Opportunities:

• Graduate studies: The program prepares students for further academic pursuits in Catholic Studies or related fields.
• Leadership roles: Graduates of the program are well-equipped to take on leadership roles in various organizations and communities.
• Volunteer opportunities: The program encourages students to engage in volunteer work within their communities, making a positive impact on society.

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Other:

• The program offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year, such as guest lectures, workshops, and retreats.
• Students have opportunities to connect with other students through clubs and organizations, such as the Catholic Students' Association.
• The program provides access to a range of academic resources, including the StFX library, which houses a comprehensive collection of books and journals related to Catholic Studies.