The Department of Religious and Theological Studies at St. Edward's is focused on providing students with a comprehensive approach to the study of religion and theological inquiry. 

Courses within this department explore the history, thought and ongoing development of global religions with attention also to Christian theology. Throughout their studies, students investigate the meaning and purpose of life through a close examination of religion. Core courses provide a solid foundation in the discipline, and the ability to select from a diverse selection of courses allows students to pursue their particular interests. These courses help students develop faculties for critical thinking and in attaining a historical view of religion. 

Students who graduate from programs within the Department of Religious and Theological Studies will be prepared for graduate school, non-profit opportunities, teaching, ministry and a variety of professional roles.

Departmental Mission

The Department of Religious and Theological Studies constructs a dynamic space to explore theology and religious studies with faculty who are passionate about their field, educating their students and serving the larger community.

Students

Our students learn to think critically and creatively about their religious tradition as well as the traditions of others, developing an ability to explore the “big questions” of human existence.  Students do this by engaging religion in its historical, textual, theological and cultural dimensions.

University

We support and shape St. Edward’s University’s Mission through our service and leadership to the campus community.

Academy

The faculty are committed to their ongoing disciplinary immersion and to shaping that discipline through engaging colleagues and students in critical conversation, original research and publication.  We model for students the scholarly life and invite students to participate with us in this endeavor.

Church

We provide pastoral and educational service and leadership to the church and faith communities.  We support our students as they contribute and emerge as leaders to their faith communities.  

Scholarships

Returning students majoring in Religious and Theological Studies and Catholic Studies who have completed the FAFSA may be eligible for the Lillian Cervenka Endowed Scholarship and the Kinsella Trust Scholarship. Students with questions about these awards should inquire with St. Edward’s University’s Financial Aid Office.

Faculty & Staff

Student Organizations

Theta Alpha Kappa (TAK)

Theta Alpha Kappa is the national honor society for Religious Studies and Theology. It is the only national honor society dedicated to recognizing academic excellence in baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate students and in scholars in the fields of Religious Studies and Theology. Theta Alpha Kappa has grown to more than two hundred chapters nationally in four-year educational institutions ranging from small religiously affiliated colleges to large public research institutions. 

Annual Lectures

Nostra Aetate Lectures

The Nostra Aetate lectures are inspired by Nostra Aetate, a groundbreaking Catholic document issued more than 40 years ago, at the close of the Second Vatican Council. The document expressed a commitment to interreligious dialogue and an appreciation for diverse faith traditions. It exhorted Catholics “to recognize, preserve and promote the good things, spiritual and moral,” that abide in the world religions. The work that the document called for continues in many parts of the Catholic Church, and this lecture series reflects St. Edward’s University’s commitment to foster and promote interreligious dialogue. The lectures are sponsored by the School of Arts and Humanities and Campus Ministry at St. Edward's University.

The Most Reverend John McCarthy Lecture Series on the Catholic Church in the 21st Century

St. Edward's created this lecture series to honor Bishop John McCarthy, who led the Diocese of Austin from 1985 to 2001.  The series presents a rich and academic dialogue about the past, present and future of the Catholic Church and underscores the university's commitment to its Catholic roots and Holy Cross Heritage.  Over the years, the series has brought some of the most influential Catholic voices from the around the nation and world to our campus

Departmental Newsletter

Our alumni, students, and faculty are constantly pursuing opportunities both within and beyond the academy. A new departmental newsletter will be available soon.