The University of St. Thomas

For Prospective Students

For Prospective Students

Resources for Prospective Students

Catholic Studies Undergraduate Department
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is Catholic Studies?

     A. Catholic Studies is an interdisciplinary degree program that explores Catholic culture as
         expressed in theology, philosophy, literature, history, art, and the professions.  Students
         can pursue a major or minor in Catholic Studies.  The Catholic Studies Department is 
         dedicated to the integration of faith and reason in every aspect of life, and thus, most
         students choose a second degree to complement their studies, such as business,
         biology, pre-law, education, or philosophy.  Watch our video to hear what our students
         and faculty have to say about Catholic Studies

Q: What do you do with Catholic Studies?

     A.  Most Catholic Studies students choose to integrate Catholic Studies into their chosen
          career path.  Current students are preparing for careers in education, law, medicine, 
          business, psychology, and youth ministry, among others.  Check out a few of our
          student profiles.

Q: What are Catholic Studies alumni doing with their degree now?

     A. Catholic Studies alumni are involved in many different fields, including law, medicine,
         religious life, finance, higher education, marketing, counseling, ministry and many others.

Q. How many classes are required for a major or minor?

     A. A major consists of 36 credits (9 classes) or 32 credits (8 classes) for students who are
         pursuing a double-major.  A minor consists of 20 credits (5 classes).

Q: Can I study abroad with Catholic Studies?

     A. Yes!  Our Catholic Studies program in Rome accommodates 32 students each
         semester, and is an integral part of the Catholic Studies experience.  Students live in
         community at St. Thomas' Bernardi Residence on the Tiber River and take courses in
         English at the Dominican Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (the Angelicum).
         Retreats, service, travel and participation in papal liturgies are some of the opportunities
         available to Catholic Studies students studying in Rome.  Check out our Rome video
         and our Rome student blog to get an inside look at the program.

Q. Can I live in a Catholic residential community on campus?

     A. Yes.  Students can choose to live in a house or residence hall that has an intentional
         emphasis on Catholic living. These students live together in communal study, prayer,
         meals and fellowship.

Q: How many St. Thomas students are studying Catholic Studies?

     A. We currently have more than 250 students pursuing a major or minor in Catholic Studies.

Q: Are scholarships available for Catholic Studies students?

     A. Yes. The Department of Catholic Studies awards merit-based scholarships each
         semester.  To apply, one must be a declared Catholic Studies major or minor.  In
         addition, incoming students who are active in the Latino community (and meet all other
         appropriate qualifications) may apply for the Latino Leadership Scholarship.

Q: Are there opportunities beyond the Catholic Studies classroom, such as social 
    events, liturgies, and service activities?

     A. Opportunities for Mass, liturgies, retreats, student led Eucharistic Adoration, and service
         to the wider community are plentiful.  In addition, Catholic Studies provides various
         events and opportunities to promote community and fellowship among students, alumni,
         staff and faculty.  Regular events include a talent show, a casino night, an ultimate
         Frisbee tournament and an ice cream social. 

Q: Who are the Catholic Studies Leadership Interns?

     A. To help foster growth, the Leadership Intern program brings together a group of dedicated
         Catholic Studies students who participate in ongoing leadership formation throughout the
         school year.  The program imparts a vision of Catholic leadership and provides a variety
         of opportunities to grow in leadership skills and character.  These students also attend a
         spring institute.  Past trips have included France, Washington D.C., and Peru, with each
         trip focusing on a different aspect of leadership. 

 

Catholic Studies Graduate Program
Frequently Asked Questions:

 See the Catholic Studies Graduate Program Web site.

 

General Information:

Information Request: Undergraduate Admissions
  Undergraduate Program in Catholic Studies
  Graduate Program in Catholic Studies
View Streaming Video Undergraduate Program in Catholic Studies
Catholic Studies Rome: Study Abroad
Financial Aid: Undergraduate Financial Aid
  Graduate Financial Aid
Application Materials: Undergraduate Online Application
  Master of Arts degree in Catholic Studies Application
University Maps & Directions  Campus Maps