John Trokan, D.Min., Chairperson
Religious and pastoral studies is presented as an academic discipline and as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. In its courses for the core curriculum requirements, the department provides opportunities for the student to deepen her/his critical understanding of the spiritual and specifically Christian dimension of life. On a professional level the department provides a comprehensive program to prepare laity and religious to fill the growing need in the church for religious educators and for lay pastoral ministers.
The Religious and Pastoral Studies Department offers a bachelor’s degree with a major in religious education which fully qualifies majors to work both in the Catholic schools as religion teachers and as directors of religious education in congregations and parishes where there is no school system. The program in pastoral ministry prepares students for initial professional involvement in campus ministry, family ministry, youth ministry, retreat work, liturgical ministry, ecumenical work, pastoral care, parish administration, various forms of social action, and creative modes of parish and congregational education. Comprehensive theological training, professional pastoral studies and field education under the supervision of specialists are integral parts of this program.
In addition to the professional programs the department provides a major and a minor in academic religious studies. This will supply the prospective graduate with an adequate, well-rounded preparation for advanced studies. The department encourages students to consider including a second area of study in their curriculum, such as socio-psychology, education, social work, gerontology, or music. Studies in music are especially encouraged for prospective music ministers and liturgists.
Credit for religion/theology courses taken at the Mount or as transfer credit more than 10 years ago is subject to validation by the student’s successful completion ("C" or better) of a more recent upper-level college course or standardized exam in the same discipline. This validation requirement does not apply if the courses are part of an earned degree or regionally accredited college credits that are part of a nursing school diploma.
All majors in pastoral ministry, religious education or religious studies are required to complete a core theology curriculum. REL 101, Introduction to Religion, is recommended as a prerequisite for all majors.
Learning Outcomes