Guidelines for Academic Papers at the CSTM

The accepted style at the CSTM is Turabian, which is actually the Chicago style adapted for use by students and researchers. Here are some helpful writing resources:

As a student in the CSTM, valuable resources are available to help you refine your academic writing skills, including:

• TMST7081 - Research and Writing for Theology and Ministry - Typically offered in both the fall and spring semesters, this course uses your own writing assignments from other courses to teach you the best approach to the kinds of writing assignments commonly given by STM faculty: theological reflection papers, research papers, weekly readings-based papers, and even your thesis or synthesis project. This course is useful for ESL students as well as students wanting to master writing skills in theology on a graduate level.
• CSTM Writing Companions Corner - Located in Room 213 of the Theology and Ministry Library (TML), the Writing Companions Corner offers individual writing tutoring to CSTM students of all levels who are currently involved in coursework. To make a tutoring appointment, see the sign-up sheet posted on our door.
• Connors Family Learning Center (CFLC) - Offers writing tutoring in person and online.  Also offers some ESL services with regard to writing and speaking. For more information, visit the CFLC website.

If you are not sure which option is best for you, or if you have other questions about academic writing, contact Jen Bader, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, at 617-552-4478 or baderje@bc.edu.

Very helpful resources about various topics related to academic writing can be found at these locations:

• Handouts, The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• OWL, the Purdue Online Writing Lab

Remember, however, when recommendations from institutions beyond STM conflict with our own guidelines, CSTM's guidelines take precedence.