Church and Social Justice
Required Course
This is an examination of the Catholic Church’s relationship to society and its responses to a variety of social, political and economic issues.
Catholic Studies Major & Minor
Catholic Studies at Stonehill is an interdisciplinary and ecclesiastically oriented major that engages students not just in history but also in contemporary issues – social, economic and political.
Program Overview
Stonehill College, in its mission statement, identifies itself as “a community of scholarship and faith, anchored by a belief in the inherent dignity of each person.” The Catholic Studies program helps fulfill the values and spirit of the College’s mission by:
• Fostering critical thinking, free inquiry and the interchange of ideas, while providing students with the tools to recognize, understand and appreciate the diversity of intellectual traditions within Catholicism.
• Enhancing the experience of students who have arrived at the College with an interest in Catholic culture or who develop an interest in response to their coursework.
• Integrating courses of study from different departments by providing students with opportunities to explore Catholicism from multiple perspectives.
• Preparing students for postgraduate opportunities related to Catholic studies, e.g. graduate work, ministry, service and education.
Campus Resources
In addition to dedicated faculty and extensive course offerings, another valuable resource available to students pursuing this major is the library. Over the years, acquisitions in Roman Catholicism were chosen across the disciplines rather than concentrating solely on theology.
The quality and quantity of books are above average for an undergraduate program in Catholic Studies. The same holds true for periodicals.
The Catholic Studies program offers a unique experience to explore the Catholic faith from an academic perspective. I had the freedom to delve deeply into topics that interested me, and worked closely with professors who had just as strong a passion and interest as me.
Career Development Resources for Students
The Stonehill Career Development Center offers extensive assistance to students seeking employment, pursuing advanced studies or participating in postgraduate service opportunities. By completing internships and utilizing mentors, students are empowered to build lifelong career management skills.
Catholic Studies Internship Opportunities
Internships, directed studies and study abroad opportunities are available to students in the Catholic Studies program. Three common internships include campus ministry, parish ministry and Catholic ministry. Learn more about our internships.
Catholic Studies Graduate Outcomes
Catholic studies majors have opportunities to experience careers in a variety of sectors, including teaching, research, writing and service work. Continue exploring where our graduates have enhanced their vocation through postgraduate service opportunities.
Featured Catholic Studies Courses
American Catholic Social History
This course is a historical presentation of the numerous social issues, conflicts and varied solutions in American Catholicism from the late 19th century forward, with emphasis on how the many issues of society impacted Catholicism. The course demonstrates how the application of faith and various theological and philosophical theories were used in resolution of social conflict.
Internship in Campus Ministry
This internship provides experience with the practical aspects and operations of a Catholic campus ministry program. Working with campus ministers and applying theological and social principles, students will be introduced to retreats, liturgical ministry, service (local and overseas), and student ministry.
Contact Us With Any Questions
Nathaniel P. DesRosiers
Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Religious Studies & Theology Department Chair, Catholic Studies Program Director
Religious Studies