Overview

Viterbo’s religious studies and theology program focuses on social justice and the complexities of religions and spirituality in the modern world. At Viterbo, this process begins with dedicated faculty, both lay and religious, who are actively engaged in theological research and scholarship. Faculty guide and mentor students to examine religious history as well as Christian, Franciscan, and sacramental theologies, scripture, and moral reasoning.

Learning Outcomes
  • Students will analyze practices of faith found in sacred and foundational texts, demonstrating how various people practice their faith.
  • Students will demonstrate knowledge of faith perspectives through history, practices, and sacred, foundational texts, connecting them to doctrinal practices.
  • Students will demonstrate knowledge of the theological values of Francis and Clare of Assisi and Rose of Viterbo and the importance of those values in contemporary life.
  • Students will demonstrate learned leadership skill for functioning as ethical and just leaders in our diverse, contemporary world.
  • Students will articulate the Christian concept of the common good and its application to contemporary issues.

Requirements

Complete ENGL-103 and 104 or 105 or 195. Requirement must be completed before the end of the sophomore year.
Complete one approved sophomore writing intensive course.
Complete three credits of approved quantitative literacy. Requirement must be completed before the end of the sophomore year.
Complete one approved information literacy course. Requirement must be completed before the end of the sophomore year.
Complete one approved oral communication course. Requirement must be completed before the end of the sophomore year.

Complete one Franciscan Values and Traditions course (VUSM-100 level course). Transfer or re-entry students may have one or two mission seminars waived based on the number of transfer or completed credits.
Complete one Living in a Diverse World course. Transfer or re-entry students may have one or two mission seminars waived based on the number of transfer or completed credits.
Complete one Social Justice and Equity course.
Complete one The Ethical Life course (VUSM-400 level).

Complete three credits of historical analysis.
Complete three credits of literary analysis.
Complete four credits of scientific reasoning in the natural sciences.
Complete three credits of scientific reasoning in the social sciences.
Complete three credits of artistic engagement.
Complete three credits of theological inquiry.
Complete three credits of integrating faith and practice.
Complete three credits of philosophical and moral inquiry.

RLST 160, 222, 225, 331, 343, 348, 433, 450, 465, 481, four credits of RLST 181, six credits of RLST electives, three credits of RLST 487. (43 credits)

All majors in the School of Humanities are required to complete one of the following as part of the baccalaureate degree requirements: A minor from any discipline on campus, a year of study in the same language, a study abroad or immersion experience. Please see the university catalog or your advisor for more details. Certain circumstances may warrant a modification of the above and your advisor can explain those circumstances.

Complete three classes (nine credits minimum) of world language in preferably one, but not more than two languages.

Complete a minimum of 40 upper division credits (300/400).
Complete a minimum of 120 college-level credits.