Licentiate of Sacred Theology (S.T.L.)

The Licentiate of Sacred Theology (S.T.L.) with specialization in Sacramental Theology is a research degree which trains students to teach a wide variety of courses, from adult education to graduate courses. The S.T.L. also prepares graduates for scholarly research in the field of sacramental and liturgical theology as well as for teaching in Catholic seminaries, universities, and colleges. As a canonical degree of the Ecclesiastical Faculty of Theology, the S.T.L. is accredited by the Congregation for Catholic Education of the Holy See.

Course Requirements

The S.T.L. is structured around a cycle of seven courses that provide in-depth study of the Christian theological tradition from the New Testament to the present. Special attention is given to Christology, Trinitarian Theology, Theological Anthropology, Theological Method, and Sacramental Theology. The specialization in Sacramental Theology requires five additional courses, and a thesis which treats a question in sacramental or liturgical theology. The S.T.L. generally requires two years (six quarters) of study. The second year, but not the first, may be completed during summer sessions, meeting from mid-June to mid-July.

Coursework

History of Christian Thought I

History of Christian Thought II

History of Christian Thought III

History of Christian Thought IV

Sacramental Thought and Practice in the Twentieth Century

Classics of Twentieth Century Theology

Contemporary Thought

Five electives taken from the Liturgical Institute curriculum

Licentiate Examination

The examination covers areas of concentration in the program, including New Testament foundations, Catholic dogmatic tradition, and six selected theologians.

The S.T.L. Thesis

The licentiate thesis is written in the major area of specialization and may be compared to a substantial scholarly essay, its length normally about seventy-five typewritten pages.

Prerequisites

1.      An S.T.B. or M. Div. degree with a 3.2 academic average in systematic courses and a 3.0 cumulative average.

2.      Official transcripts from all college and graduate programs attended.

3.      Three letters of recommendation: from a pastor or religious superior; from a professor or academic instructor, preferably in theology or a related field; from an employer or supervisor in ministry.

4.      A Personal Statement explaining the applicant’s interest in the program and professional or ministerial goals.