<p>BC is one of my top choices for a number of reasons. Something that I am wondering about, however, is the religious influence. I understand that there is a theology requirement, Mass, and such, but for someone who does not attend church…what’s it like being there? Can anyone comment on this? Thank you</p>
<p>Don’t worry, neither is my family and all 3 of the kids in my family have gone to BC. Technically we’re catholic, but we haven’t been to church since I was in elementary school. There is a theology class requirement,(but it’s more like learning about all kinds of religions and what they believe in, etc.) as far as I know there is almost nothing else related to religion that is mandatory. Apart from a quick mass at the induction ceremony on your first day freshman year, you don’t have to go to a single mass or anything like that. I’m sure you’ve seen a few references to Jesuit philosophy on BC’s website, and all that really boils down to is giving back to the community, no heavy religious stuff. I hope that helps, and goodluck in April!</p>
<p>You can choose from a wide variety of courses to fulfill the theology requirement…some of the courses take a historical approach, some a philosophical approach, etc. NOBODY will force religious belief or practice on you.</p>
<p>People ask this question all the time. If you search around a bit in this BC sub-forum, you will find multiple threads addressing this topic. Coming from a current, non-religious, BC student, the atmosphere is not oppressive. However, there are times where the Catholic identity is made abundantly clear, i.e. lack of school provided contraception.</p>
<p>Mass is offered on campus but there is no requirement to attend. The theology requirement can be fulfilled in numerous courses. One of the theology professors is Jewish, which adds another perspective when discussing the Bible. And don’t forget, that some ancient theologians were also great philosophers in their own right; such discussions tend towards the philosophic side…</p>
<p>But while ~65% of students are Catholic, BC also welcomes folks from all religions, or no religion. The vast majority of students just don’t care, and the faculty have no way of knowing.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>