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Licentiate in Canon Law

Requires six semesters in which the governing norms of the Catholic Church are studied; a thesis is written, and a comprehensive examination taken on the canons of the Code. Upon the completion of the requirements, the student earns the Licentiate in Canon Law (J.C.L.).

During these semesters, the student becomes acquainted with the whole corpus of church law, understands the law in terms of its theological, philosophical, and historical background, and learns the method and practice of scientific research. The level of research for the licentiate is that expected of professional canonists, specifically the exacting investigation of canonical questions encountered in curial, tribunal, and similar practice, and the articulation of one's findings in written opinions and briefs.

The School of Canon Law offers three ways to complete the six semesters required for the J.C.L. degree:

  1. Three academic years, all on campus: fall and spring, fall and spring, fall and spring;
  2. Two academic years and two summers, all on campus: fall, spring and summer; fall, spring and summer;
  3. Four summers of study on campus during June and July, with on-line courses and on-line Latin during the academic year.

Residence

Depending on the program chosen, on-campus courses fulfill the residence requirements for the licentiate. The actual time necessary to complete the requirements of the degree program will, of course, vary from student to student. Continuous enrollment is required unless an authorized leave of absence has been granted.

Language Requirements

Canon law is an international law. The official texts of the law and of many documents with canonical importance are in Latin. Other texts appear from time to time in various modern languages. Many of the significant commentaries on the law and studies about canon law topics appear in languages other than English.

In order to understand this law more accurately, to interpret and apply it more fully and to instruct others more effectively as to its meaning and proper application, it is important to have access to more than the limited amount available in English translations or studies concerning canon law. The development of an ability to use canonical Latin and the canonical literature in a modern language is an integral dimension of formation as a canon lawyer and subsequent professional work.

Before a formal submission of the proposal for the licentiate thesis, a candidate must demonstrate a fluency in canonical Latin and pass a proficiency examination in one modern language (Italian, German, Spanish, French) administered by the School of Canon Law.

Coursework

The course of studies is divided into six semesters (A-B-C-D-E-F). Semester A is a prerequisite for the other semesters. These courses include required courses and various elective courses offered in the School of Canon Law or in other schools of the university.

The course of studies normally is as follows: