What is the academic program?

During their sophomore, junior, and senior years, Chaminade Scholars are required to enroll in three special seminar-style courses. These three-credit hour courses are designed to help Chaminade Scholars think theologically about their own lives as a calling from God and to develop their skills as Christian leaders. These courses satisfy requirements for the University General Education Thematic Cluster.

These courses are as follows:

• The Christian Tradition of Prayer (REL 356): A study of the act of faith expressed prayer in the Christian tradition, and the use of prayer as a means of discerning God's ways in one's life. The course examines Christian prayer and the roots of Christian prayer found in the Jewish scriptures, as well as study of the New Testament. Following this foundational study, various approaches to prayer are examined, highlighting the contribution of significant movements and individuals in various periods of Church history.
• Vocation and the Arts (ASI 357): An exploration of ways in which individuals have lived and expressed their vocation through the arts. Studies works of art (including music, theater, literature, and visual art) as examples and models of those artists who have lived lives of discernment and discipleship. Students use autobiography as a tool for self-reflection and growth in understanding of one's vocation.
• Christianity and Contemporary Society (ASI 358): An investigation into how to build communities that will positively impact society and methods to increase the effectiveness of Christian leadership. Students have the option to complete a research project in which their own sense of calling is articulated in light of the theological convictions of the Church. Research grants are available from the Program for Christian Leadership to support these projects.