What is CSTS?
The Catholic Social Thought Scholars Program is a three-year interdisciplinary learning experience which combines study of the Catholic Church's social teachings with a field placement in the community, culminating in a research project designed to address a particular social justice issue.
Catholic Social Thought Scholars not only understand the Catholic social thought tradition, but they are able to use it to address the problems they will as they work for justice in their future careers as teachers, nurses, therapists, accountants, business executives—indeed, in every field of professional endeavor. This is a program for people who want to change the world!
Freshman and sophomores with a 3.2 GPA and a record of volunteer work are eligible to apply in the fall of each school year. CST Scholars receive a $1000 per semester scholarship after a candidacy semester, contingent upon maintaining GPA and a volunteer project. CST Scholars complete 12 credits and receive a Certificate in Catholic Studies.
An Integrated, Experiential Program
Each year's cohort of students is chosen to participate in a fully integrated faith and justice educational program spread out over three or four years. Major program elements include:
- Theological reflection—an integration of the students' study of Catholic social teachings with their own experience
- Weekend immersion experience in Bridgeport followed by Community Service Field Placement with monthly seminars
- Two courses organized around the Church's social teachings, sociological analysis, and related social justice themes
- Capstone research project in which the Scholar integrates his or her student of Catholic social teaching
- Field trips and campus events relevant to the program of study
An Interdisciplinary Approach
Faculty members from diverse departments guide the students' study of the many ts of the Church's social teachings through discussion meetings, course work, and mentorship in research. Through the theological reflection process, special attention is given to the “real-life” problems students encounter in their fieldwork. Key themes from Church documents (such as the option for the poor, the dignity of human life, human rights and responsibilities, the principle of the common good, and the dignity of work) are explored in correlation to the students' fieldwork experiences.
Dr. June-Ann Greeley, Acting Director for 2005–2006
Ph: 203-371-7713
Fax: 203-371-7731
Email: GreeleyJ@sacredheart.edu
Dr. Brian Stiltner, Faculty Assistant to CCTEC (on leave in Fall of 2005)
Ph: 203-365-7657
Fax: 203-371-7731
Email: StiltnerB@sacredheart.edu