The specialization in Sacramental Dogmatic Theology aims to prepare experts in the field of the sacraments. The emphasis falls on theology, with an integrated curriculum of liturgical and sacramental courses in which our Pontifical Athenaeum is traditionally specialized.
The curriculum in Sacramentary Dogmatic Theology has recently been renewed with an update of courses and teachers. The new program presents an increase in Benedictine teachers who teach fundamental courses. In addition, the program offers courses that characterize its theological specificity by integrating them with courses of our Pontifical Liturgical Institute (PIL). Unlike the PIL, which focuses more on historical-liturgical aspects and offers academic degrees in liturgy, this specialization focuses on the theological analysis of the sacraments and offers academic degrees of license and doctorate in Theology.
In addition to these two academic degrees, Sacramental Dogmatic Theology also offers a "Master" in Theology. The "Master” is a short specialization with a one-year course of study. Unlike other countries, however, it is not an academic title.
The Theological Triennium (combined with the Philosophical Triennium) aims to provide the basic training necessary to pursue theological studies and to receive priestly ordination. It faithfully follows the lines drawn by the Apostolic Constitution Sapientia Christiana. However, not only is particular attention paid to the content but also to a style of teaching. Our students are guided to think theologically following the saying of our patron Saint Anselm: credo ut intelligam.
So that starting from that knowledge which is faith we can then arrive at the affirmation: "The more I understand, the more deeply I believe". This has made it possible to develop a way of doing theology that can ultimately be identified as an interweaving of experience, spirituality, liturgy and a symbolic approach with strong cultural implications. These characteristics make it a suitable place for all those, monks and not, who want to be introduced to existentially relevant theological thinking. Taking into account also its internationality and its location in Rome, it is a unique place of basic formation.
In order to be admitted to the 1st cycle for the Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology (ST.B.) it is necessary to have a high school diploma, which admits to the Civil University in the student's country of origin. In addition, the student must present authentic certifications showing the attendance and passing of the respective exams of a two-year preparatory studies in theology with the characteristics and subjects indicated in Art. 51 1° a) present in the Decree of reform of ecclesiastical studies of Philosophy. If the certificate is considered sufficient by the Dean, the student is admitted to the first cycle of theological studies (Triennium) as a regular student. If, on the other hand, the certificate is considered insufficient, the student must take those exams which, although provided for in the above Decree, have not been taken. The Dean may also decide that the student must only undertake preparatory studies in theology for a semester or a year.
To obtain the ST.B. degree, the requirements are:
In total, the student's academic activities must reach the value of at least 180 ECTS. The Baccalaureate exam (thesis + comprehensive exam) is worth 13 ECTS. This information reflects the Statutes and Ordinances (III. B. 1. A) according to the latest revisions approved by the Council of the Faculty of Theology on May 10, 2012 and by the Academic Senate on May 17, 2012.
Through its academic, research and training activities Sant'Anselmo wishes:
