The Certificate in Religious Education is designed to prepare students to teach religion in a parochial school (elementary or secondary) or to direct the religious education program of a local church. The program provides students with a basic understanding of educational theory and practice along with a formal certificate that they can cite when applying for a position in a school or church.
The bishop of Buffalo has indicated that his office would look favorably upon applicants who have earned a Certificate in Religious Education from St. Bonaventure, and other dioceses would probably have a similar opinion.
The program consists of 18 hours of course work, divided into three parts:
- Four introductory courses in Education (taken with Education majors);
- Two courses in Religious Education (offered by the Theology Department); and
- A non-credit Internship in Religious Education (120 hours of supervised work in a school or church).
The Certificate program is open only to students who are working toward a major or minor in theology. Students may apply to be admitted to the program once they have formally declared their major or minor. Application forms may be obtained from the department chair.