Theology & Religious Studies at USD

Join Professor Emily Reimer-Barry in London, England, this summer!

THRS 330: Reproductive Justice and Catholic Theological Ethics will be offered as a three-week intensive course in London from June 28–July 18.

Applications open January 14 and close February 18. Space is limited so don’t wait to register!

THRS 330 is a level two domestic diversity course that also satisfies upper division theological and religious inquiry or ethical inquiry (but not both). Previous students describe the course as “a perfect mix of academic excursions and cultural immersions,” “amazing!” and “incredibly interesting.” You can learn more at https://sandiego.via-trm.com/program_brochure/24970 (sandiego.via-trm.com in Bing).

This is a course for curious thinkers who want to learn more about the framework of reproductive justice, which was developed in the US by women of color activists and scholars in order to advance social justice inclusive of reproductive autonomy and rights. The course will consider areas of both common ground and conflict between a reproductive justice framework and Catholic theo-ethical principles and teachings. As the class explores the history of women’s movements and religious and historical landmarks in London, students will consider what role religious voices should play in politics, health care, and social activism today.

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"Theology and Religious Studies at USD provides multidisciplinary training in the exploration of religious meaning. We create opportunities for students to explore religion as a constitutive element of human experience and values, and to acquire skills for engaging diverse dimensions of religion with openness and respect. "

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Theology and Religious Studies at USD provides multidisciplinary training in the exploration of religious meaning. We create opportunities for students to explore religion as a constitutive element of human experience and values, and to acquire skills for engaging diverse dimensions of religion with openness and respect. #usdcas

Dr. Suzanne Mulligan, author of Dwelling with Dignity: Catholic Social Teaching and Homelessness, gave a public lecture at the University of San Diego: College of Arts and Sciences on Thursday (link to book in comments). Special thanks to the Frances G. Harpst Center for Catholic Thought and Culture for sponsoring both her lecture and a lunch with students from University Ministry at USD. It is clear that USD students care deeply about the complex problems related to the housing crisis, affordable housing, and dignity of unhoused persons. In her lecture, Dr. Mulligan explained that CST rejects the notion that housing is a commodity, rejects the throw-away culture, and prioritizes the common good. She encouraged both interpersonal and structural responses.

As the fall semester begins, the Department of Theology and Religious Studies is proud to celebrate two faculty members recently recognized for their outstanding contributions.

Victor Carmona, PhD, associate professor, was awarded the Steber Professorship at USD’s Fall Convocation. His project explores the experiences of Catholic parishes in the Cali-Baja region to deepen Catholic social thought on migration in a synodal key.

Peter Bennett, adjunct assistant professor, received the Learning Communities Faculty Award for Mentoring Excellence. A dedicated advocate for transfer students, Bennett’s thoughtful and respectful approach to mentorship continues to make a lasting impact.

We’re grateful for their scholarship, care, and commitment to our students and communities. Congratulations to both!

Congratulations class of 2025! May you foster peace, work for justice, and lead with love!

Congratulations to Grant Sobek and Julia Neugebauer on their induction into Theta Alpha Kappa, the honors society for the study of religion. Dr. Karen Teel, chair of the department, led the ceremony today in the French Parlor. Grant and Julia will be “corded” in their final semester. Until then, best wishes on your studies!! 👏👏👏

To learn more about one of our summer study abroad classes, check out this video from Dr. Emily Reimer-Barry:

Summer THRS Course in Salzburg, Austria, 2025 Click here for the course brochure and to sign up:https://sandiego.via-trm.com/program_brochure/24861/Explore the idyllic city of Salzburg through a faculty-...

Summer study abroad applications close this week - on Wednesday February 12th. Please encourage interested students to apply! USD Study Abroad THRS faculty will be teaching courses in Salzburg, Paris, and London in summer 2025.

Thank you Martha and Johneisha for presenting the work of Christie’s Place and for sharing your personal testimonies with students in THRS 332. We learned so much about meeting people where they are, harm reduction, and peer navigation frameworks. https://christiesplace.org/