Theological Studies

Curriculum Objectives

This unit studies each of the four women Doctors of the Church – Hildegard of Bingen, Catherine of Siena, Teresa of Avila and Thérèse of Lisieux. It considers their significance in their particular historical contexts, their theological insights and the relevance of these insights in the twenty-first century.  The unit also explores the contributions these women can make to discussions about the role of women as teachers and leaders in the contemporary Church.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this unit of study, students will be able to:

• demonstrate an understanding of the ways in which the women Doctors of the Church are theological sources.
• demonstrate an understanding of the historical contexts of the women Doctors of the Church, and the significance of these women to their particular contexts.
• describe and analyse the theological insights contained in the lives and writings of the women Doctors of the Church, and
• identify connections between the lives and theological insights of the women Doctors of the Church and contemporary global, social, professional, personal and ecclesial contexts.

Assumed Knowledge 

T8106 and B8101

Study hours

10 hours per week for 12 week session, comprised of:

• At least one hour per week for online lectures.
• At least three hours per week of reading.
• At least six hours per week of directed study, including optional and assessable online activities.

Teaching methods

Online lectures; online activities; guided reading; scaffolded assessments; feedback on assessments.

Indicative Assessment

At the Institute we use a range of assessment tasks, including essays, research papers, online posts, critical reflections, projects and praxis exercises. Within a unit of study each set of assessment tasks is designed as an integral part of your learning experience. These tasks vary across units and programs. All assessment tasks are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework level appropriate for graduate awards.