Department of Theology, Philosophy, and Classical Languages

Theology | Philosophy | Classical Languages

Theology

The Department of Theology at Texas Lutheran University offers three versions of a major in theology. The Pre-Seminary Concentration is designed for a student who plans to pursue seminary or other post-graduate studies. The Youth Ministry Concentration is designed for a student pursuing a full-time lay vocational career in youth ministries, and/or pursuing post-graduate studies. For a student who is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), this concentration also provides the theological background necessary for those who are in the candidacy process to become an associate in ministry. The Liberal Arts Concentration is designed for students who desire to explore all aspects of life from the perspective of faith as well as of reason within the academic study of theology and, in most instances, will develop and complete a second major as well. While most of our majors are members of the ELCA, many majors are in other groups, such as the Lutheran Church- Missouri Synod, Episcopal, Roman Catholic, United Church of Christ, Presbyterian, Methodist, Baptist, and non-denominational communities.

Pre-Seminary Concentration

• Critical thinking and theological knowledge development
• Field experiences/internships
• Research projects
• Foundations for living a “service oriented” lifestyle
• Proficiency in languages such as Latin, Greek, Hebrew, Spanish, and French
• Interaction with persons from diverse religious backgrounds
• Proficiency in the Lutheran Christian tradition, including the life of Martin Luther and Lutheran doctrine and confessions

Youth Ministry Concentration

• Proficiency through interdepartmental support courses in teaching, recreation, music, communication, and adolescent development/cultural trends
• Foundation for philosophy and theology of youth ministry
• Proficiency in assessment skills and corresponding methodologies for practical youth ministry
• Event and travel planning for youth groups
• Knowledge of viable youth ministry resources and publishing houses
• Encouragement to attain proficiency in languages such as Spanish, French, Latin, Greek and Hebrew

Liberal Arts Concentration

• Breadth and depth in theology in a second major
• Thinking and acting regarding issues of ultimate importance
• Maximum flexibility
• Emphasis on vocation
• Opportunities for extensive independent study on subjects of your choice
• Along with other concentrations in theology, encouragement to study abroad in Africa, Europe, Asia, etc.
• Encouragement to attain proficiency in languages such as Latin, Greek, Hebrew, Spanish and French

Special Opportunities
Students who do well in theology may be asked to be departmental assistants. Some of the duties include:

• Tutoring
• Conducting review sessions for theology classes
• Editing or writing for the departmental newsletter, Faith & Reason
• Editing or writing for the Theology-Philosophy Review
• Working on an annual symposium
• Participating in departmental meetings

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Philosophy

The study of philosophy energizes and expands the mind through the investigation of ideas. Philosophical inquiry enhances the critical reflection and understanding that are essential to the kind of liberal arts education Texas Lutheran encourages students to pursue. The philosophy department faculty introduces students to the history of ideas, the processes of analytical reasoning, the quest for goodness, and the importance of self-reflection. The outcome is growth in knowledge, understanding and wisdom. A major concentration, as well as a minor, is offered as preparation for advanced work in philosophy and other disciplines – as well as for life!

Career Opportunities
Graduates in philosophy (some with additional graduate study) may enter diverse fields, including:

• Law
• Government service
• Social service
• Ministry
• Teaching

Special Opportunities
Along with the regular courses in philosophy, independent study opportunities and a senior seminar are available for majors. Small classes encourage discussion and the interchange of ideas. Even classes at the introductory level provide opportunities for student participation. Visiting guest philosophers have been a regular enhancement to the curriculum.

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Classical Languages

The minors available in Greek and Hebrew studies are designed to enhance a
student's major area of study through the opportunity to achieve literacy
in New Testament Greek and Biblical Hebrew, respectively.

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