Exploring Diploma Programs at Adamson University
Adamson University (AdU), a private Catholic institution in Manila, Philippines, operated by the Congregation of the Mission, offers a wide array of academic programs encompassing graduate studies, law, liberal arts, sciences, engineering, nursing, pharmacy, architecture, business administration, education, and levels from secondary to preschool. As a member of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, Adamson University is also known for its athletic programs. This article delves into the various diploma programs available at Adamson University, highlighting their strengths and academic focus.
A Brief History of Adamson University
Founded on June 20, 1932, by George Lucas Adamson as the Adamson School of Industrial Chemistry, the institution initially focused on industrial chemistry education. Over time, it expanded its offerings and was renamed Adamson School of Industrial Chemistry and Engineering in 1936. Key figures like Alexander Athos Adamson and Evdoxia Savaides Adamson played significant roles in the university's development. George Lucas Adamson served as the university's president for 35 years, a period that saw the university gain membership in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines. Throughout its history, Adamson University has been led by several presidents, including Spanish priest Leandro I. Montañana and Fr. Rolando S. Dela Goza, C.M., the first Filipino president. The university celebrated its diamond jubilee in 2007 and has been designated as a historical site by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
Location and Campus
Adamson University is situated in San Marcelino Street, Ermita, Manila, within the "University Belt." Its neighbors include the Technological University of the Philippines, Santa Isabel College Manila, Emilio Aguinaldo College, and Philippine Normal University. The university has occupied several locations throughout its history, settling in its current location in 1946 and expanding its campus by acquiring the Meralco building in 1968 and the St. Vincent Building.
Academic Strengths
Adamson University is particularly known for its strong focus on engineering, computer science, and business programs.
Engineering Programs
The College of Engineering at Adamson University offers degree programs in civil, computer, electrical, and mechanical engineering. These programs are characterized by modern facilities and equipment, preparing students for careers in the engineering field.
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Computer Science and Information Technology
The university's programs in computer science and information technology are highly regarded. The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical knowledge, fostering strong problem-solving skills among students.
Business and Management
Adamson University's College of Business Administration provides degree programs in marketing, business management, accounting, and finance. The focus is on real-world applications and experiential learning, ensuring students receive an up-to-date business education.
Other Notable Programs
In addition to its flagship programs, Adamson University also has commendable programs in architecture, pharmacy, education, and the arts and sciences.
St. Vincent School of Theology (SVST)
St. Vincent School of Theology (SVST) is the Graduate School of Theology of Adamson University. It offers degrees such as Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Ph.D. in theology), Master of Arts in Theology (MA Theology), Masters in Pastoral Ministry (MPM) and Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (AB Philosophy). The diploma non-degree courses are Philosophy for Theological Studies (PTS), Introductory Theological Formation (ITF) and Christian Theology for the Laity (Hapág-Layko Program).
Doctor of Philosophy in Theology Program
The Doctor of Philosophy in Theology Program is aimed at forming contextual professional theologians who are capable of doing solid and sustained theological reflection, teaching, academic research and pastoral praxis in their own contexts.
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Academic Prerequisites
A student must have graduated from Masters in theology with academic degree (Thesis Program) as specified by the Commission on Higher Education in the Philippines or its equivalent in other countries.Those who have graduated from other non-thesis programs of Masteral courses other than theology shall have their credentials evaluated by the Dean or Director of Admissions.
Academic Course Load
- Basic Courses (6 Units):
- Methods in Theological Research
- Advanced Scientific Research Methods
- Core Philosophy (9 Units):
- Contemporary Philosophies of the Human Person
- Contemporary Ethical Theories
- Contemporary Researches on Ancient Philosophies
- Contemporary Researches on Medieval Philosophies
- Contemporary Researches on Modern Philosophies
- Advanced Metaphysics
- Contemporary Critical Theories
- Contemporary Philosophy of Nature
- Phenomenological Method
- Advanced Hermeneutic Studies
- Contemporary Philosophies of Religion
- Asian Philosophies
- Filipino Philosophy
- Contemporary Philosophies of Science
- Structuralism, Post-structuralism, and After
- Feminist Philosophies
- Intercultural Philosophies
- Areas of Concentration (27 Units):
- Concentration on Systematic Theology - any 7 of the following:
- Patristics
- Medieval Theologies and Theologians
- Modern Theologies and Theologians
- Contemporary Theologians
- History of Theological Methods
- Contemporary Theological Methods
- Recent Documents of the Church
- Asian Religions and Theologies
- Language, Symbols and Theology
- Contemporary Christologies
- Contemporary Developments in Ecclesiology
- Eschatology in Contemporary Perspectives
- Studies in Indigenous and Popular Religions
- Contemporary Developments in Ecumenism
- Contemporary Developments in Interreligious Dialogue
- Theologies of Creation
- Spiritual Theology: History and Prospects
- Spiritual Traditions: East and West
- Contemporary Theologies of Liberation
- Inculturation: History and Prospects
- FABC and PCP II: Theological Directions
- Filipino Theologies: History and Prospects
- Theologies of the Sacraments
- Theology of the Eucharist: History and Celebration
- Liturgical Inculturation
- Concentration on Moral Theology - any 7 of the following:
- Methods in Moral Theology: History and Prospects
- Catholic Social Tradition: Contemporary Developments
- Christian Sexual Morality: Contemporary Developments
- Life, Death, and Dying: Ethical Reflections
- Medical Ethics
- Contemporary Issues in Moral Theology
- Social Analysis: Theological and Pastoral Perspectives
- Migration: Theological and Ethical Perspectives
- Magisterium and Moral Theology
- Virtue Ethics
- Contemporary Approaches to Ecotheology
- Concentration on Systematic Theology - any 7 of the following:
- Foreign Languages (6 Units):
- Latin
- Biblical Greek
- Hebrew
- French
- German
- Dissertation (12 Units):
- Seminar in Dissertation Writing
- Dissertation Writing
- Comprehensive Examination:
- At the end of one’s course work, the student shall take an oral comprehensive examination.
- Public Defense:
- The final assessment for the Doctoral Program shall be a public defense.
Master of Arts in Theology Program
This academic degree is a Master’s thesis program aimed at preparing individuals involved in the practice of theological education to have a basic, comprehensive, and critical grasp of the Scriptures and the Christian tradition in the context of contemporary global issues and developments. The different major concentrations are made available to allow for basic specialization in some central theological fields.
Areas of Concentration (Majors)
- Systematic Studies
- Moral Studies
- Biblical Studies
- Liturgical Studies
- Vincentian Spirituality
Academic Prerequisites
An applicant must have graduated with any Bachelor’s Degree (four-year university course) as specified by the Commission on Higher Education in the Philippines or its equivalent in other countries.They must have taken up at least 12 units of Theology or Philosophy in their undergraduate courses from their previous university or equivalent institutions of learning.
Academic Course Load & Curriculum
- Basic Courses (6 Units, for all Areas of Concentrations):
- Research Methods 1- Methods and Materials for Research Writing
- Research Methods 2- Practical and Empirical Methods
- Core Courses (12 Units, for all Areas of Concentrations unless specified):
- Introduction to Scriptures
- Fundamental Systematic Theology: Revelation and Faith
- Fundamental Moral Theology
- Christology and Soteriology (Systematic Studies, Moral Studies, Liturgical Studies, and Vincentian Spirituality only)
- Biblical Hebrew and Greek (Biblical Studies only)
- Major Courses (18 Units per Area of Concentration):
- Systematic Studies
- Triune God
- Creation and Eschatology
- Theological Anthropology, Sin and Grace
- Ecclesiology
- Missiology
- Liberation Theologies
- Moral Studies
- Christian Sexual Ethics
- Life and Biomedical Ethics
- Catholic Social Teachings
- Environmental Ethics
- Contemporary Issues in Moral Theology 1
- Special Moral Questions
- Biblical Studies
- Pentateuch and Historical Books
- Prophetic and Wisdom Literatures
- Synoptics and Acts
- Pauline and Catholic Epistles
- Johannine Writings
- Contemporary Approaches to Biblical Studies and Exegesis
- Liturgical Studies
- Introduction to Liturgy and Sacraments
- Sacraments of Christian Initiation 1: Baptism and Confirmation
- Sacraments of Christian Initiation 2: Eucharist
- Sacraments of Healing: Reconciliation-Anointing
- Sacraments of Commitment 1: Holy Orders
- Sacraments of Commitment 2: Matrimony
- Vincentian Spirituality
- History of Christian Spirituality
- Theology and Christian Spirituality
- Contemporary Spiritualities
- Retreat Giving and Spiritual Direction
- Spiritual Discernment
- Vincentian Spirituality
- Systematic Studies
- Elective/Practicum (Units vary per Areas of Concentration):
- Systematic Studies & Moral Studies (3 Units)
- Biblical Studies (12 Units)
- Liturgical Studies (12 Units, required course: Theology of Inculturation)
- Vincentian Spirituality (12 Units, required course: East and West)
- Thesis Writing and Defense (6 Units, for all Areas of Concentrations)
- Comprehensive Examination
- A student shall take an oral comprehensive examination in front of a panel of three (3) members representing three theological fields: one on the field of concentration (Major) and 2 from other fields to be determined by the Program Chairperson.
- Public Defense
- The final assessment for the Master’s Program shall be a public defense.
Masters in Pastoral Ministry Program
This professional degree is a non-thesis Master’s program aimed to equip individuals involved in different pastoral ministries with an appropriate and critical grasp of basic theological frameworks and effective pastoral skills necessary to do ministry in their pastoral contexts.
Academic Prerequisites
An applicant must have graduated with any Bachelor’s Degree (four-year university course) as specified by the Commission on Higher Education in the Philippines or its equivalent in other countries.They must have taken up at least 12 units of Theology or Philosophy in their undergraduate courses from their previous university or equivalent institutions of learning.
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Academic Course Load & Curriculum
- Core Courses (15 Units)
- Introduction to Scriptures
- Fundamental Systematic Theology: Revelation and Faith
- Fundamental Moral Theology
- Ecclesiology
- Christology and Soteriology
- Major Courses (18 Units)
- Pastoral Theology
- Pastoral Administration, Leadership and Management
- Missiology
- Theology of Ministries
- Pastoral Counselling and Psychology
- Poverty and Community Development Studies
- Elective/Practicum (12 Units)
- Seminar 1
- Seminar 2
- Elective 1
- Elective 2
- Comprehensive Examination
- At the end of one’s academic coursework, the student shall take an oral comprehensive examination in front of a panel of three (3) members representing different theological fields: one from pastoral ministry and 2 others from different theological fields to be determined by the Program Chairperson depending on the majority of courses taken.
- After having passed the comprehensives, the student shall apply for graduation in Adamson University and shall be proclaimed graduate in Masters in Pastoral Ministry.
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy Program
This is a 4-year college degree program offered at Adamson University under the College of Education and Liberal Arts (CELA). This is offered to provide special training for students who wish to major in Philosophy or as preparation for a professional advanced program in Law, Education, Theology and Graduate Studies in Human Sciences.
Academic Prerequisites
An Applicant must be a high school graduate.He or she should have taken and passed the Adamson University Entrance Exam (UEE).
Academic Course Load & Curriculum
All courses will be taken at St. Vincent School of Theology (SVST).
*Philosophy Curriculum 2023, effective 1st Semester, School Year 2023-’24
- Minor Courses
- First Year
- First Semester (23 Units)
- Introduction to Philosophy
- Logic
- History Of Western Philosophy 1 (Ancient And Medieval)
- Purposive Communication
- Understanding The Self
- Pathfit 1 - Movement Competency Training
- National Service Training Program 1
- Searching For God In The World Today
- Second Semester (23 Units)
- Seminar On Plato/Aristotle
- Science, Technology, and Society
- Mathematics in the Modern World
- The Contemporary World
- Advanced Philosophy of Human Person
- Pathfit 2- Exercise-Based Fitness Activities
- National Service Training Program 2
- Responding to God’s Call by Becoming Fully Human
- First Semester (23 Units)
- Second Year
- First Semester (23 Units)
- Metaphysics
- Reading in Philippine History
- History of Western Philosophy 2 (Modern And Contemporary)
- GE Elective 1
- Foreign Language 1
- Pathfit 3 - Dance
- Celebrating God’s Presence as a Christian Community
- History of Indian Philosophy
- Second Semester (23 Units)
- Epistemology
- Ethics
- Cosmology (Philosophy Of Nature)
- Foreign Language 2
- History of Chinese Philosophy
- GE Elective 2
- Pathfit 4 - Sports
- Transforming The World With St. Vincent
- First Semester (23 Units)
- First Year
- Major Courses
- Third Year
- First Semester (24 Units)
- Modern Asian Thoughts
- Phenomenology
- Philosophy Of Religion
- Art Appreciation
- Allied Elective 1
- GE Elective 3
- Hermeneutics
- Free Elective 1
- Second Semester (21 Units)
- Comparative Philosophy (East-West)
- Political Philosophy (Social Critical Theory)
- Philosophy of Science
- Aesthetics
- Allied Elective 2
- Thesis Writing 1
- Seminar on Filipino Philosophy
- First Semester (24 Units)
- Fourth Year
- First Semester (18 Units)
- Seminar on Contemporary Philosophy
- Philosophy of Language
- Allied Elective 3
- Philosophy of Education
- Free Elective 2
- Rizal’s Life and Works
- Second Semester (9 Units)
- Special Questions in Philosophy 1 (Philo.
- First Semester (18 Units)
- Third Year
Curriculum for the Ordained Ministry
This non-civil degree program is a four-year theological and pastoral training aimed at preparing seminarians for their future priestly ministry. This academic theological formation is intended to fulfill the canonical requirements for the formation of priests and is patterned after the Ratio Formationis for Theological Education in the Philippines. A candidate for the priesthood can also take up the Master of Arts in Theology Program while pursuing the Curriculum for the Ordained Ministry.
Academic Pre-requisites
An applicant must have graduated with any Bachelor’s Degree (four-year university course) as specified by the Commission on Higher Education in the Philippines or its equivalent in other countries.The student shall have taken up at least 15 units of Theology AND at least 30 units of Philosophy in their undergraduate courses from a previous university or equivalent institutions of learning.
Academic Course Load
Students shall finish the academic course load of a total of 162 Units of Theology within a specified period, as specified in the Curriculum for the Ordained Ministry program.
- First Year
- First Semester
- Introduction to Scriptures
- Fundamental Systematic Theology: Revelation and Faith
- Fundamental Moral Theology
- Church History 1: Ancient and Medieval
- History of Christian Spirituality
- Ecclesiastical Latin
- Research Methods 1: Methods and Materials for Research Writing
- Second Semester
- Pentateuch and Historical Books
- Christology and Soteriology
- Christian Sexual Ethics
- Patristics
- Introduction to Liturgy and Sacraments
- Pastoral Theology
- Research Methods 2: Practical and Empirical Methods
- Biblical Greek and Hebrew
- First Semester
- Second Year
- First Semester
- Synoptics and Acts
- Triune God
- Church History 2: Modern and Contemporary
- Ecclesiology
- Pastoral Counselling and Psychology
- Poverty and Community Development Studies
- Sacraments of Christian Initiation 1: Baptism and Confirmation
- Second Semester
- Johannine Writings
- Theology of Ministries
- Missiology
- Life and Biomedical Ethics
- Church History 3: Philippines and Asia
- Sacraments of Christian Initiation 2: Eucharist
- Pastoral Administration, Leadership and Management
- Institutional Paper 1
- First Semester
- Third Year
- First Semester
- Prophetic and Wisdom Literatures
- Creation and Eschatology
- Contemporary Issues in Moral Theology 1
- Sacraments of Healing: Reconciliation-Anointing
- Canon Law 1: History, General Norms and People of God
- Sacraments of Commitment 1: Holy Orders
- Marian Theology and Popular Religiosity
- Second Semester
- Contemporary Approaches to Biblical Studies and Exegesis
- Pauline and Catholic Epistles
- Catholic Social Teaching
- Theological Anthropology, Sin and Grace
- Theology of Inculturation
- Canon Law 2: Canon Law and Marriage
- Sacraments of Commitment 2: Matrimony
- Institutional Paper 2
- First Semester
- Fourth Year
- First Semester
- Liberation Theologies
- Ecumenism and Interfaith Dialogue
- Homiletics 1: Theology and Spirituality of Preaching
- Canon Law 3: Sanctions, Processes and Administrative Laws
- Liturgical Presidency: Mass and other Sacramental Celebrations
- Thesis Proposal/Synthesis Paper Writing
- Second Semester
- Ad Audiendas Confessiones
- Homiletics 2: Practice of Preaching and Public Speaking
- Synthesis Course (Comprehensive Review)
- Comprehensive Exams
- Synthesis Paper Defense
- First Semester
After fulfilling one’s academic course load, the student shall defend their Synthesis Paper in front of a panel constituted by the Dean and/or Program Chairperson. Passing the Synthesis Paper Defense makes the student eligible to take the Comprehensive Examination.
Comprehensive Examination
After defending one’s thesis proposal, the student shall take oral comprehensives in front of a panel of fi…
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