BA Catholic Studies

The Catholic Studies program will provide you with an informed understanding and appreciation of the depth and breadth of the Catholic tradition and its unique contribution to society—past and present. In our rigorous, interdisciplinary program, you’ll explore Roman Catholicism as a religious and cultural reality that expresses and motivates multiple forms of human expression.

As a Catholic Studies major, you'll be taught by faculty members who are experts in the study of Catholicism as well as other disciplines, including: artists, economists, historians, literary critics, musicians, political scientists and sociologists, as well as philosophers and theologians.

Chicago has one of the largest Catholic populations in the United States and a rich theological, pastoral, ethnic, architectural, artistic and musical heritage for you to experience firsthand.

You'll have a wide array of resources at your fingertips. Our Center for World Catholicism and Intercultural Theology, an internationally renowned research institute, focuses on Catholicism around the world. And our Vincentian Studies Institute is the leading center in the world for the study of the Vincentian tradition. Catholic Studies majors also have the opportunity to choose one of two study-abroad programs in Italy and to take selected courses at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Along with Catholic Campus Ministry, we support the Catholic Learning Community, which helps you explore the spiritual, academic and service aspects of your faith.