Research

Research Policy

In today's complex and ever-changing world, we believe that research is no longer just a fundamental academic exercise, but a necessity, which is why all seminarians from Grades 10 through 12 are required to complete an annual research paper. This policy, a core part of their curriculum, with its evolving focus and methodology, is essential for forming effective priests and lay leaders prepared to minister in the new world. It cultivates a critically engaged and intellectually prepared mind, enabling them to apply their faith and values to contemporary issues. This focus on practical intellectual formation is well-supported by Church documents, with Vatican II's Optatam Totius emphasizing the need for an intellectual foundation adapted to pastoral needs and Pope St. John Paul II's Pastores Dabo Vobis highlighting research as a crucial part of intellectual formation. Similarly, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has underscored the role of the laity as "saints sent forth as heroes" who must possess a deep understanding of the world to fulfill their mission.

Seminarians from Grades 10 through 12 are required to complete a research paper each year. 

In Grade 10, seminarians, as part of their English 10 and Science 10 subjects, work together on scientific and experimental research. Their work involves creating prototypes and measuring their impact in a chosen field. This hands-on approach provides a foundation in practical research methods.

Grade 11 students follow a more structured research path in their Practical Research subject. They individually complete Quantitative Research during the first semester and Qualitative Research in the second. For the fourth quarter, they select one of these papers to defend to the expert panel. Their topics are broad, ranging from humanities and contemporary issues to church documents.

Finally, in Grade 12, seminarians are tasked individually with a research paper for their Inquiry, Investigation, and Immersion subject during the first semester. This research is concentrated on topics within the humanities and contemporary issues. Similar to the lower grades, the final paper is presented to a panel for defense and is published if approved.

Access

All research are locatable the seminary library. Digital copies are available upon approval.