Bachelor of Arts in Theology
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Degree
Bachelor's
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School
Art & Sciences
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Program Feature(s)
Internships
Program Overview
Grounded in the Franciscan theological tradition of seeking Wisdom and the University's Franciscan values, the Bachelor of Arts in Theology aims to educate and form disciples and scholars for a wide range of ministry positions, as well as advanced studies at the graduate level. Graduates learn to contemplate the Word of God from the heart of the Church and to "rebuild the Lord's house" in the local community, following the footsteps of St. Francis.
Whether you feel called to ministry, already serve in a ministry position, or simply want to deepen your knowledge of the faith, this program combines theological inquiry, faith-driven service and communal formation to help you reach your goals.
On This Page
Program Contact
Brian Pedraza, Ph.D. | Program Director
Phone: (225) 526-1986
Email: Brian.Pedraza@franu.edu
Theology at FranU
“The Theology program has helped me form my intellect and will towards the plan that God wants for me, the professors and community at Fran U have been like no other. I have experienced Christ-like love from the FranU community, and I am blessed to have the privilege of being a student at such a wonderful university. ”
Trey
Theology Student
Theology Potential Career Outcomes
Christian Ministry
Serve in churches, missions or faith-based organizations as pastors, youth ministers, worship leaders or outreach coordinators. These roles allow graduates to guide spiritual growth, lead congregations and support communities through faith-based initiatives.
Graduate Education
Continue academic studies in theology, divinity, religious studies or related fields to prepare for teaching, research or advanced ministry roles. Graduate programs can lead to careers in higher education, seminary instruction or specialized pastoral care.
Nonprofit & Community Leadership
Work with nonprofits, advocacy or humanitarian groups where theological insight supports community development, social justice and ethical leadership. Graduates may shape programs that address poverty, education and health care.
Endless Opportunities
A theology degree opens doors to careers in counseling, education, chaplaincy, writing, ethics consulting and more, where faith, compassion and leadership intersect. Whether serving in various fields, theology graduates bring a unique perspective rooted in service and meaning.
Program Highlights
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Comprehensive curriculum - The theology bachelor’s degree program consists of 121 credit hours, including 60 hours in core theological content. You’ll be immersed in the subject matter directly related to your major and take courses ranging from Christian spirituality to Christology and Mariology. Learn more about the courses you’ll take.
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Gain hands-on experience - You’ll put your education into action through the ministry capstone project. This project provides you with the opportunity for hands-on experience with a local church, school, or religiously affiliated organization.
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Knowledgeable faculty - Our theology faculty members are highly skilled professionals with extensive content expertise and have the mandatum, which is a mandate to teach with the official doctrine of the Catholic Church. View our faculty members.
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One of few Catholic theology programs - FranU’s theology bachelor’s degree program is unique in that we are the only Catholic institution in Louisiana, outside of New Orleans, to offer a theology degree. What’s more, our program is endorsed by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge.
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Connect and network - FranU theology majors can connect and network with others working in the Catholic faith. Our program serves as the academic hub for the Diocesan diaconate, lay formation, and spiritual direction programs, which require enrollment in our theology coursework.
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Franciscan values - We are a member of the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities (institutions characterized by Franciscan values). We’re guided by our core values of service, reverence and love for all of life, joyfulness of spirit, humility and justice.
Request More Information
Want to know more about the Bachelor of Arts in Theology? Find out how the program can help you reach your goals by requesting information.
Theology Faculty
Our Theology faculty members are highly-skilled professionals with extensive content expertise and have the Mandatum, which is a promise to teach with official doctrine of the Catholic Church.
Learning Outcomes - What Will You Learn in the Theology Major?
Upon completion of the theology program, graduates will be able to:
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Assess a theological or ministerial problem by the appropriate use of Catholic scripture;
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Apply the theological principles of Catholic systematic theology to contemporary theological, spiritual or ministerial problems;
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Organize significant Christian events historically;
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Evaluate ethical decisions from the perspective of Catholic moral theology;
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Construct written and oral presentations for academic or catechetical audiences.
Program Goals
The goals of the Bachelor of Arts in Theology include:
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Educate students with an integrated knowledge of theology;
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Develop skills necessary for 21st-century careers as well as entry into graduate or professional training programs;
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Provide evidence-based educational experiences that promote integrated knowledge of theology, vocational discernment, community engagement and Franciscan core values and
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Provide educational experiences that also meet the needs of the communities we serve.
Declaration of Major
A student may declare the theology major at any time but must meet with the program director to help develop his/her individual degree plan. Requirements for acceptance into the program are the same as for acceptance to Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University.
Graduation Requirements
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Completion of 121 credit hours as noted in the curriculum plan;
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Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better on all college work (a grade of C or better in all related coursework);
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Fulfillment of the residency requirement; and
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Clearance of all indebtedness to the University, including the return of all materials borrowed from the University library.
Prepare for a Career in Ministry or Graduate Studies with a Bachelor's Degree in Theology from FranU
Our Bachelor of Arts in Theology program provides a comprehensive curriculum that connects students with others working in the Catholic faith and prepares them for careers in church ministry positions. Guided by our Franciscan values, you’ll be prepared to be a servant leader in your career and/or graduate education.
Spiritual Direction Internship
Are you drawn to helping others deepen their relationship with God? The Theology Program’s Spiritual Direction Internship offers a transformative opportunity to cultivate your gift of discernment within a supportive wisdom community. Through this immersive experience, you’ll grow in spiritual insight, learn to accompany others on their faith journey and respond to the call of spiritual direction with purpose and grace.
Catholic Theology and Catechesis Certificate Program
The Catholic Theology and Catechesis Certificate builds the theological foundation necessary for individuals who feel called to serve God by serving others. Students enrolled in the Catholic Theology Certificate program can gain a deeper understanding of theology and are equipped to teach the Catholic faith.
The Dominus Project
The Dominus Project refocuses faith formation back on the home. We offer inspiring content and practical resources for families, consultation and accompaniment for pastors and parishes and academic and pastoral education for anyone wanting to go deeper in their faith.
Theology At FranU Accreditation
For information about our SACSCOC accreditation, please visit our Institutional Accreditation page.
The Learning Experience
Get a preview of FranU’s Theology program. Check out the complete curriculum in SmartCatalog.
- THEO 1310: Introduction to Theology
- THEO 2320: The Old Testament
- THEO 2321: The New Testament
- THEO 3330: Christology & Mariology
- THEO 3345: Christian Healthcare Ethics
Award-Winning Excellence at FranU
Our nationally recognized programs set the standard in higher education.
See What Sets FranU ApartWhere Progress Makes Headlines
FranU Holds Ribbon Cutting for Renovated Health Professions Building
Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University celebrated a $2M renovation of its School of Health Professions, enhancing labs, classrooms and hands-on healthcare training.
