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In This Section
Faith and Reason at the Service of Humanity, Creation, and the Common Good
The Faith, Science, and Technology pathway invites students to address perennial questions surrounding human dignity, creation, and the common good through the lens of faith and reason. Grounded in the conviction that each person is created in the image of God, we form students to safeguard the inherent dignity of every individual amid ethical challenges. Affirming the world as God's good creation, we form students to envision innovative responses to ecological challenges, ensuring the thriving of our entire common home. Committed to the well-being of both our local and global communities, we form students to orient scientific and technological advancement toward the abundant life of all. Recognizing that we come to know God more fully through both faith and reason, we teach students to integrate ancient wisdom with modern science in pursuit of Truth.
Structure of the FST Pathway
Faith, Science, and Technology is one of four Pathways that make up SVC Honors.
Before beginning the FST Pathway, all SVC Honors students share a common first year of coursework, lectures, service opportunities, and social celebrations. This shared foundation fosters meaningful relationships and a strong sense of community with other SVC Honors students, while fostering collegial friendship among FST students.
Embarking further on the Faith, Science, and Technology pathway, you will explore the intersections of faith, science, and technology through specialized coursework, lectures, reading groups, research experiences, and events.
The FST Capstone Seminar during the students’ senior year includes an option to participate in an international STEM-focused study abroad experience during the Winter or Spring Break. You will get to visit museums, research facilities, and natural wonders all while experiencing diverse global perspectives and vibrant cultural traditions firsthand.
SVC Honors
Signature Academic Experience
Faith and Innovation Summit
This weekend-long event brings together top scientists, theologians, and tech innovators for keynote talks, interactive workshops, and student-led panels. Imagine collaborating with peers to pitch a faith-informed solution to a pressing technological issue—like sustainable energy or ethical gene editing—in a hackathon-style competition judged by industry and academic leaders. With opportunities to network with professionals and present original research, the Summit empowers students to lead at the forefront of faith, science, and technology, making it a highlight of the program that students eagerly anticipate each year.
Program Highlights
Deep Inquiry Harmonizing Faith and Reason
As an FST Scholar, you’ll take thought-provoking courses taught by world-leading scholars that challenge you to explore the intersection of faith, science, and technology. Your journey culminates in a STEM-focused study-abroad experience to a location like Japan, the Dominican Republic, or Germany to visit museums, research facilities, and breathtaking natural wonders. Drawing from your travel experiences and pre-trip research, you’ll develop an FST Capstone project that brings your learning to life in a meaningful and impactful way.
Inspiring Engagements Beyond the Classroom
As an FST Scholar, you will immerse yourself in learning that extends beyond coursework. From hands-on field trips to cutting-edge research labs, these experiences will spark curiosity and deepen your own understanding of the relationship between faith, science, and technology. They’ll provide a strong foundation for career development by connecting classroom learning to real-world challenges. Whether in debating the ethics of AI or exploring the cosmos through a theological lens, such experiences will broaden your perspective and ignite your curiosity.
Fellowship in Community
Each semester, you’ll dive into dynamic discussion groups, and service-learning projects that bring FST’s mission to life. Imagine bonding with peers under the stars during a team building retreat or debating questions like “Can technology deepen spirituality?” Through partnerships with local organizations, you’ll apply tech-driven solutions to real community needs. These experiences build more than just your resume—they build a sense of purpose, equipping you to integrate faith, innovation, and service in a rapidly changing world.
Meaningful Mentorship
Mentorship and social events connect you with faculty and upperclassmen who guide you along your path. These opportunities will fuel your academic passions, sharpen your career goals, and shape you into a leader ready to make a difference. Expert faculty will help tailor your path—whether it’s securing a research fellowship or prepping for the Faith and Innovation Summit. Upperclassmen mentors share practical know-how, from juggling challenging coursework to balancing purpose and ambition. You’ll forge lifelong connections while building a network that lifts you up for life.
Purposeful Service Through Scientific Innovation
As an FST Scholar, you will have opportunities to channel your passion for science into meaningful community service projects and internships. You might serve as a research assistant, consultant, camp counselor, pharmacy technician, or teacher’s assistant. These hands-on roles not only support local communities, but they also build valuable skills and experience that prepare you for future success in your career.
Expected Coursework and Other Requirements
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Anticipated Courses and Events
Academic Requirements
Faith, Science, and Technology Core Curriculum
Complete 6 Honors courses in disciplines and electives where the integration of faith, scientific inquiry, and technological understanding is central. Courses recommended will emphasize that faith and reason work together in the pursuit of truth.
- Theology
- Philosophy
- Natural Science
- Ethics
FST Capstone Seminar
Students will work toward completing and presenting a Notable Endeavor by conducting research, leading a project, or designing a program that builds on the FST Pathway at a higher and more personal level.
Enrichment Opportunities
- Service projects
- Reading groups
- Academic events
- Social gatherings
These experiences encourage students to take stewardship of our communities and creation seriously.
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Key Courses
Gospel of Life Gospel of Creation: Why is it better to exist than not to exist? What is good about being human? Do we possess an inviolable dignity? Dialoguing with both ancient wisdom and modern science, this course invites students to consider why - for the Catholic theological tradition - the claim that one has been created can be considered “good news” (“gospel”). Topics range from biblical theologies of creation to Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, from the awesome intelligibility of the universe to the defense of human life.
Foundations of Sustainability: This course is designed as an introductory course on environmental sociology. The course will examine the varied forces and perspectives that have an impact on environmental policy-making. Subject areas include environmental policy-making, the concepts of ecology and sustainability, renewable and nonrenewable resources, pollution, energy policy, and global environmental degradation.
Science for International Development: This course explores how scientific technologies are used to address urgent and long-term challenges in underserved communities, especially those facing poverty and lacking infrastructure. Through case studies, you'll examine effective and ineffective approaches to humanitarian and environmental issues. Lab sessions provide hands-on opportunities to design and evaluate solutions. Topics include technology acceptance, sanitation, shelter, agriculture, and water access and treatment.
Application and Contact Information
If you are interested in applying to SVC Honors, first apply for admission to Saint Vincent College: Apply to Saint Vincent College.
If your application meets the criteria, you will be invited to apply for SVC Honors. To be considered, you must submit a separate Honors application by February 15.
An interview is also required. Once your application is submitted, someone will reach out to schedule a brief interview.
If you have any questions or would like more information on SVC Honors, please contact our Director of Honors, Dr. Jerome Foss. He can be reached at: jerome.foss@stvincent.edu or 724-805-2652
After completing your freshman year as an SVC Honors student, you'll have the opportunity to choose the Pathway that best supports your academic and career goals. If you're interested in learning more about the FST Pathway specifically, please contact Dr. Jason Vohs at jason.vohs@stvincent.edu.
Explore other SVC Honors Pathways
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SEEK Scholars
Follow the path of Service, Exploration, Experience, and Knowledge (SEEK) while grounded in the tradition of Catholic Social Thought. Embrace stewardship for all creation by serving the poor, defending human dignity, and advancing social justice. -
Aurelius Scholars of the Great Books
Explore the world through the Western intellectual tradition by studying the great texts, ideas, and perennial questions of the Western world. -
Benedictine Leadership Studies
The Benedictine Leadership Studies (BLS) program invites you to explore who you are as a leader—a disciple called to serve others and promote the common good.