Catholic Theology, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Program Overview
The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Catholic Theology from Saint Louis University equips Catholic educators with the theological knowledge and skills to effectively teach religion at the high school level or lead religious education programs. The 18-credit hour program offers a range of required and elective courses, including core doctrinal loci and practical subjects. Graduates qualify for certification as high school religion teachers and other religious education roles.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Catholic Theology is a graduate program offered by the Department of Theological Studies at Saint Louis University. It is designed to support the Bishops’ Curriculum Framework for high school religion teachers. The program focuses on six required doctrinal loci: God/Trinity, Christ, Salvation, Ecclesiology, Sacraments, and Christian Ethics. It also includes five elective doctrinal loci: Bible, Church History, Catholic Social Teaching, Christian Vocations, and Ecumenical/Interreligious Dialogue. The program aims to equip Catholic educators with the necessary theological knowledge and skills to become certified as high school religion teachers, adult religious education coordinators, or directors of religious education. It can also count towards the completion of the 36-credit Master of Arts in Religious Education.
Outline:
The program consists of 18 credit hours of coursework, which can be completed either full-time or part-time. The required courses are offered on a two-year rotation, with many scheduled late afternoons, evenings, and during the summer to accommodate the schedules of Catholic educators.
Required Courses:
- THEO 5000 Introduction to the Old Testament (3 credits)
- THEO 5100 Introduction to the New Testament (3 credits)
- THEO 5440 Christology (3 credits)
- THEO 5500 Sacraments (3 credits)
- THEO 5670 Social Justice and the Catholic Social Teaching Tradition (3 credits)
- THEO 5680 History of Moral Theology (3 credits)
Additional Courses Required for Certification in the Archdiocese of St. Louis:
- THEO 5810 Ignatian Spirituality & Pedagogy (3 credits)
- EDI 5360 Principles and Methods of Catechesis (3 credits)
Careers:
The program prepares graduates for careers as:
- High school religion teachers
- Adult religious education coordinators
- Directors of religious education
Other:
The program is designed to meet the needs of a national audience, providing a core of required courses while allowing for additional electives to meet the particular needs of a local diocesan school system.
Tuition Per Credit Tuition Cost Per Credit Graduate Tuition $1,370
Saint Louis University
Overview:
Saint Louis University (SLU) is a Jesuit Catholic university with a rich history spanning over 200 years. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, student-centered approach, and research-driven environment. SLU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, education, health sciences, law, medicine, nursing, and more.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
SLU provides a vibrant and supportive campus community with a strong emphasis on student involvement. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities, including athletics, service learning, and cultural events. The university also offers resources for student well-being, such as counseling services and wellness programs.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
SLU is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and dedicated faculty.Experiential Learning:
The university emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs.Supportive Community:
SLU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff.Billiken Promise:
This program offers admitted undergraduate students a range of benefits, including virtual internships, guaranteed study abroad opportunities, and flexible scholarships.Academic Programs:
SLU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
94 bachelor's degree programsGraduate:
88 master's degree programsProfessional:
Programs in law, medicine, and other fieldsThe university is particularly known for its strengths in the following areas:
Health Sciences:
Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, and other related fieldsBusiness:
Finance, Marketing, Management, and EntrepreneurshipLaw:
Legal studies and practiceArts and Sciences:
Humanities, Social Sciences, and Natural SciencesOther:
SLU has a beautiful residential campus located in Midtown St. Louis, Missouri. The university also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, offering study abroad opportunities for students.
