The Core is an opportunity to inquire into the fundamental aspects of being and our relationship with God, nature and our fellow human beings.
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2. A comprehensive examination, oral and written, to be taken in March or April of senior year. The examining board is regularly to be composed of three professors responsible for the courses of the major program designated by the Chair. The examination covers substantial topics of the courses the student has taken for the major. Guidelines are available from the Department. The purpose of the comprehensive examination is to test: 1) general and specific theological knowledge, 2) ability to form sound theological judgments on difficulties, 3) capacity for integrating substantial theological topics, 4) ability to communicate acquired knowledge.
3. The Senior Seminar (THE 4347) and Senior Thesis (THE 4348) constitute a two-semester sequence which all majors experience together. The Senior Seminar involves exploration of a great text, theologian, or topic. In addition, each student produces an essay. In the Senior Thesis, the student expands that essay into a high-quality thesis, delving more deeply into the research and argumentation. Further, the students participate in an academic symposium, delivering presentations on their thesis and taking questions. A celebratory meal concludes the symposium.
Philosophical learning cultivates habits of mind conducive to sound theological reasoning. Knowledge of classical languages (Latin, Greek, Biblical Hebrew) enhances one’s exploration of the Scriptures and of the tradition. Knowledge of modern languages (French, German, Italian, Spanish) facilitates academic research and apostolic service.
