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Adult Studies

Bachelor of Arts in Theology - Accelerated

Catholic higher education values the role of divine revelation in human life. In the tradition of Christian Humanism, the study of Theology is key to self-comprehension. Earn your bachelor’s degree in Theology or a Theology Certificate on your time at DeSales University. Explore Christian scripture, doctrine, ethics, and history in DeSales’ accelerated Theology program.

Program Details

Official Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Format
Online
Online
Credit Hours
120
Program Start
Start Anytime
Application Deadline
Apply Anytime
Average Time to Degree
3-4 Years

Why Get Your Theology Degree at DeSales University?

The Theology program at DeSales University helps you to appreciate the divine calling to a life of love. Beginning with human experience, theology addresses the ultimate concerns of our existence. It searches for understanding by way of systematic reflection and leads to the practice of a meaningful life consistent with an intelligible faith.

Theology offers transferable skills sought by today’s employers. Our grads have gone on to work in law, politics & government, education, healthcare, ministry, and more.

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Program Highlights

Flexible Options

  • Earn a full degree or a certificate at your own pace. Follow an accelerated plan of study to earn your degree faster or progress as conservatively as you want. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so you can start when you are ready. All classes are online unless otherwise noted with numerous start dates throughout the year. A personal advisor will ensure you're getting exactly what you need to succeed. The certificate offers an introduction to the method of theological thought, a consideration of central topics in the field, and an opportunity to pursue a topic of personal interest. Gain an integration of faith and reason that allows entry into professional positions in church service, like teaching, administration, etc., or advanced degree work in theological disciplines.

Professional Development Opportunities

  • The accelerated bachelor’s in theology from DeSales includes independent study. You’ll apply what you learned to real-world scenarios. Our expert faculty and their existing connections can help you build a network of professionals and colleagues. With the support and resources from DeSales’s Adult Studies program, you'll have a community behind you to explore and grow in your career.

Value/ Return on Investment

  • DeSales offers efficient, low-priced tuition with various financial aid and tuition deferment opportunities. Our strong alumni success rate means you are sure to get the most out of your time at DeSales. Through the guidance of faculty and DeSales’ career services, you will find your professional path and get connected to career opportunities

What Will You Study?

The Theology program at DeSales covers coursework in the various disciplines: scripture, doctrine, ethics, and history. Curriculum follows the Catholic, Christian humanist tradition of St. Francis de Sales. The number of courses may be reduced depending on the number of transferable credits (up to 75) recognized and/or any credits earned through prior learning assessment. Successful completion of the clinical field experience components of the program are necessary for admittance to student teaching and/or certification.

Examples of courses you may take as part of the Accelerated Theology major include:

  • Catholic Theology
  • The Gospels
  • The Church and Sacraments
  • Faith and Reason
  • Philosophy of Religion
  • The Meaning of Death and Dying

Outcomes & Careers

When you graduate from DeSales University with a B.A. in Theology you'll be able to:

  • Explain the nature and philosophical foundations of theology, especially highlighting the relationship between faith and reason.
  • Articulate the contents of theology in terms of its various disciplines: scripture, doctrine, ethics, and history.
  • Explain what it means to be a Catholic, in terms of the Church’s fundamental doctrines.
  • Articulate specifically what it means to be a Catholic in the Christian humanist tradition of St. Francis de Sales.
  • Demonstrate familiarity with the Church’s spiritual, pastoral, and ethical tradition in preparation for the various pastoral fields in which they may serve.
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Admission Criteria

  • A High School Diploma or GED, and at least one of the following must apply:
  • You have been out of high school for 5+ years
  • You have a full-time career and/or other significant non-academic responsibilities, such as being self-supporting or having financial dependents
  • You already have a bachelor's degree and are now pursuing a certificate or second degree
Visit Admissions Tuition & Fees
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Prerequisites

Already Attended Some College?

We will be happy to evaluate your prior college courses. DeSales accepts up to 75 credits from regionally accredited colleges and universities. All transferred credits must be applicable to some curriculum offered at DeSales University. You must complete at least 15 three-credit (or more) courses at DeSales University to earn a degree from DSU.

Please note that only credits are transferred; your grades for transfer courses are not calculated into your GPA at DSU.

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