Major: Theology
Are you involved in a religious practice? Do you find yourself thinking about the nature of justice, mercy, suffering, and joy? Do you long to join with others who share your desire to dig deeper into your belief system?
If so, you might want to consider majoring in theology. Theology majors study a religious faith in depth. They examine that faith's stories, rituals, and teachings, which together provide a framework for both daily life and spiritual reflection. Most theology programs also include the study of other faiths, as well as urgent issues confronting us all, such as the environment.
Theology majors study a particular religion or religious community. Classes focus on the religion's beliefs, teachings, history, practices, ethics, and present-day situation.
“[W]hen faith and learning mesh, the result is genuinely thrilling!”
--David G. Truemper, Professor and
Chair of Theology, Valparaiso University
Are You Ready To...?
- Learn Hebrew, Latin, ancient Greek, or another language
- Spend a lot of time reading, writing, and reflecting
- Have intense, wide-ranging conversations with other students
- Visit various religious communities to observe and sometimes join in their services
- Spend a semester doing an internship or service-learning project
It Helps to Be...
Interested in combining soul-searching with demanding academic study. Most theology majors are already participating in a particular religion when they start college and choose a program with the same focus.
College Checklist
- Does the program encourage you to take a hard look at your beliefs, or does it focus on strengthening them?
- Will the program help you understand and communicate with people whose beliefs anre different from yours?
- Does the program provide a religious community that will support you spiritually?
- Will you be required to learn a biblical language such as Hebrew?
- What hands-on learning opportunities does the program provide?
- What is the ratio of female to male students and faculty?
Did You Know?
- Theology is offered mostly by Catholic schools -- which often do a fantastic job of examining other faiths.
Course Spotlight
Many theology programs offer ways to get involved with the larger community. These activities might be called "fieldwork," "internships," "practica," or "service learning." You might volunteer in a nonprofit organization that serves homeless youth. Or maybe you'll assist the clergy in a congregation. Whatever the exact name or nature of the activity, this is a chance to put your values to work. As you help others, you'll learn lessons to which books can only point.
