Adult Faith Formation Programs and Research Projects
In 2023, the CCCB Episcopal Commission for Evangelization and Catechesis (ECEC) met with representatives of nine institutions (members of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCUC) and Canadian Catholic seminaries) to discuss their lay formation programs. As a result, the Office for Evangelization and Catechesis (English Sector) created an information resource bank with a list of lay formation programs and research projects that are offered at these Catholic institutions of higher learning. The hope is that this information will be of use to Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers and other interested persons.
The information gathered to-date is available below. This resource will be updated in consultation with the universities, colleges and seminaries going forward. Please contact each institution for more information about its programs or research projects.
Adult Faith Formation Programs Summary Chart
An Overview of All Programs
Research on Adult Faith Formation
Assumption University (University), Windsor, ON
Graduate Diploma in Catholic Studies, (Graduate Diploma), Online Synchronous, $800 (for-credit) or $400 (for-audit), 1–2 years
To study the Catholic intellectual tradition at one of Canada’s most historic Roman Catholic institutes of higher learning.
Description
The Graduate Diploma in Catholic Studies provides an opportunity to study the Catholic intellectual tradition at one of Canada’s most historic Roman Catholic institutes of higher learning. Students will begin by completing a foundational course on the Catholic intellectual tradition which outlines the major concepts of Catholic thought. This course will be followed by courses on social justice and interfaith dialogue. A topics course will be offered that will focus on a special issue. Finally, students will compete a capstone project whereby they will outline, research, and deliver a workshop in any area of Catholic studies. One of the most advantageous components of this program is that it is regarded as a hiring asset by eight Catholic school boards in the province:
- Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board
- London District Catholic School Board
- Conseil Scolaire Catholique Providence
- Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board
- Niagara Catholic District School Board
- Clair Catholic District School Board
- Waterloo Catholic District School Board
- Wellington Catholic District School Board
This diploma is advantageous to students seeking employment in the Catholic education, healthcare, or social services sectors. In addition, given the program’s flexibility, it fits within the busy schedules of working professionals, particularly teachers, consultants, and administrators in search of an added graduate credential for possible career advancement.
Intended Audience
Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Lay Pastoral Workers, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, Graduate Students
Bursaries/Scholarships
Newman Theological College (College), Edmonton, AB
Certificate in Catholic Studies, (Certificate), Online Asynchronous, $90.00/Course, 5-week courses
To provide opportunities for Catholics to learn more about their faith.
Description
The Certificate in Catholic Studies Program offers a comprehensive selection of courses on various aspects of the Catholic faith. All are offered online and asynchronous, so participants can study from the comfort of home and work around their personal schedules. Each course runs five weeks. This program is open to adults and youth of all backgrounds and education levels in all countries.
Participants in the Certificate in Catholic Studies Program, after having successfully completed six certificate courses, may receive credit towards one elective in the College’s B.Th. Program.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary Opportunities
Newman Theological College offers a bursary for Lay Formation students, which includes funds for those participating in the Certificate in Catholic Studies Program.
Regis College (University), Toronto, ON
Windows on Theology Continuous Learning, (No Certification), Hybrid, $160–$225 (varies by course length), 6–8 weeks
To provide participants with theological enrichment for daily and professional life
Description
Non-credit continuous learning series focused on theology and socio-cultural themes. Offered during the day.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Faith Issues Today, (No Certification), In-person, $80–$160 (varies by program length, subject to change), 3–6 sessions
To stimulate reflection of social issues from a faith perspective
Description
Short introductions to themes in theology and society.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Regis St. Michael's Faculty of Theology (University), Toronto, ON
Master of Divinity (MDiv), Regis College, (Degree), In-person or Hybrid, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 3 years (Full-time), up to 8 years (Part-time)
To engage resources received from the tradition, the church, one’s interior life, and one another. To utilize experiential educational practices that cultivate the interrelation of affect and intellect. To accompany students on their journey toward the self-awareness, affective freedom, and intellectual flexibility required today in the formation of men and women for global ministry.
Description
The M.Div. program at Regis College educates students to serve the church, society, and the academy as scholars and pastoral ministers. The degree is conjointly offered with a Bachelor of Sacred Theology (STB) (described below).
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission for the program. We have funding available for part-time domestic students as well.
Master of Divinity (MDiv), St. Michael’s College, (Degree), In-person & Hybrid, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 3 years (Full-time), up to 8 years (Part-time)
To appropriate and integrate the Catholic intellectual heritage and its significance/relevance for understanding the current cultural context. To develop and apply the pastoral skills required for inclusive ministerial leadership which will assist in identifying current social issues (local and global) from a faith perspective. To foster a sustainable and authentic spirituality that appreciates the diversity of the Church and world in order to communicate the Gospel.
Description
This program teaches individuals to appropriate and integrate the catholic intellectual heritage and its significance/relevance for understanding the current cultural context (ecumenism, interfaith, ecology). A diploma or certificate for Eastern Catholic students can be pursed concurrent with this degree, or a Certificate in Theology and Ecology, at no additional cost.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well.
Master of Theological Studies (MTS), Regis College, (Degree), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 2 years (Full-time), up to 8 years (Part-time)
To foster among students a general understanding of theology as a discipline and of the Roman Catholic tradition within it. This understanding will include knowledge of the major areas of systematic theology, the exegesis of Sacred Scripture, the principles and issues of moral theology, the history of the Church and the role of spirituality in integrating faith and life experience to prepare students for their service to the Church and to the world.
Description
The Master of Theological Studies Program is a first degree in theology that complements previous professional or academic training. These studies take place in a Roman Catholic faith community grounded in Ignatian spirituality that prepares students to respond insightfully and creatively to the needs of the world with generosity and discernment.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well.
Master of Theological Studies (MTS), St. Michael’s College, (Degree), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 2 years (Full-time), up to 8 years (Part-time)
To enable students to think theologically by considering different theological areas, perspectives, and methods. To facilitate the attainment of survey knowledge of the Catholic theological tradition with the possibility of attaining a focused knowledge in a specific discipline.
Description
This program is designed to strengthen the religious basis of the individual’s life and work, whether in a secular career or church-related career, by providing the individual with a general theological understanding as well as the opportunity for in-depth study and specialization. A diploma or certificate for Eastern Catholic students can be pursed concurrent with this degree, or a Certificate in Theology and Ecology, at no additional cost.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well.
Master of Arts in Ministry and Spirituality (MAMS), Regis College, (Degree), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 2 years (Full-time) or 3–6 years (Part-time)
To practice a contemplative model of theological reflection that supports their personal and professional development. To discern the creative action of God in one’s own life and in the life of the church and society for service.
Description
This program is designed for women and men with active ministerial experience who seek to expand and deepen a social and spiritual vision through theological study and reflection on the personal and societal dimensions of work and service in a post-modern culture. It emphasises a deepening of theological understanding as well as training in specialized pastoral skills. Students may also concurrently pursue a Diploma in Spiritual Direction within the program requirements, at no additional cost.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well.
Master of Religious Education Degree (MRE), St. Michael’s College, (Degree), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 2 years (Full-time) or 3-8 years (Part-time)
To appropriate and integrate the Catholic intellectual heritage and understand its relevance for educational ministry in current cultural contexts. To develop and apply the knowledge and skills required for inclusive educational ministry, in response to contemporary social issues, from a faith perspective.
Description
This professional program is designed to prepare individuals for the ministry of religious education. It welcomes individuals from various aspects of this ministry such as teaching or supervising in schools, parishes, dioceses, or international settings.
Intended Audience
Catholic Teachers and Administrators
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well.
Master of Theology (ThM), Regis College (Degree), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 1.5 years (Full-time) or 4–6 years (Part-time)
To deepen the student’s knowledge of theology and to further their preparation for doctoral study or pastoral ministry.
Description
The program is designed to deepen the student’s knowledge of theology and to further their preparation for doctoral study or pastoral ministry. The degree can also be pursued concurrently with the Licentiate in Sacred Theology (STL) (described below). It is course-based, or pursued with courses plus a short thesis.
Intended audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Lay graduate students, and all who seek additional enrichment beyond “first-cycle” formation degrees.
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well. Some scholarships available for international students.
Master of Theology (ThM), St. Michael’s College (Degree), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 1.5 years (Full-time) or 4–6 years (Part-time)
To deepen a student’s knowledge of theology and further their preparation for pastoral ministry or for doctoral study.
Description
The program is designed to deepen a student’s knowledge of theology and further their preparation for pastoral ministry or for doctoral study. It is course-based, or pursued with courses plus a short thesis. It serves a variety of aims, including advanced theological research, preparation for some forms of teaching, preparation for doctoral study, the scholarly enhancement of the practice of ministry, and disciplined reflection on a specialized function in ministry.
Intended audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Lay graduate students, and all who seek additional enrichment beyond “first-cycle” formation degrees.
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well. Some scholarships available for international students.
Certificate in Theological Studies (CTS), Regis College, (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 1 year (Full-time), up to 4 years (Part-time)
It may provide academic background for those interested in making applications to masters degrees.
Description
This certificate provides university graduates with a general university-level foundation in Christian studies.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well.
Certificate in Theological Studies (CTS), St. Michael’s College, (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 1 year (Full-time), up to 4 years (Part-time)
It may provide academic background for those interested in making applications to masters degrees.
Description
CTS provides university graduates with a general university-level foundation in Christian studies.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well.
Doctor of Ministry (DMin), Regis College, (Degree), Hybrid, $7,208/year, ($15,520/year for International students), 5 years
To assist students in gaining advanced expertise in the general practice of ministry as well as advanced skill in a specialized area of research particular to their ministry.
Description
Advanced, professional degree offered by Toronto School of Theology in a distance delivery format to students with an appropriate first degree in theology, and pastoral experience. The program provides the opportunity to develop a comprehensive and critical understanding of ministry in which theory and practice inform and enhance one other.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Domestic students with need may have tuition remission up to 100%.
Doctor of Ministry (DMin), St. Michael’s College, (Degree), Hybrid, $7,208/year, ($15,520/year for International students), 5 years
To assist students in gaining advanced expertise in the general practice of ministry as well as advanced skill in a specialized area of research particular to their ministry.
Description
The DMin program is designed to develop excellence in the practice of ministry through a creative coordination of theological reflection, professional development, social analysis, and personal integration.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Domestic students with need may have tuition remission up to 100%.
Diploma in Interfaith Dialogue, St. Michael’s College, (Diploma), Online Synchronous, $100/course, 2–3 years
To understand and recount the historical origins, central teachings, devotional practices, and social/political influences of at least four major religions (informational and confessional aspects).
Description
This program introduces students to the beliefs and practices of other major religions that make up the demographics of the Canada (which reflect the major religions of the world generally), so that students can engage in meaningful dialogue with men and women of other religions.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bachelor of Sacred Theology (STB), Regis College, (Degree), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 3 years (Full-time)
To engage resources received from the tradition, the church, one’s interior life, and one another. To curate a rich variety of expressions of religious meaning (textual, artistic, architectural, liturgical, social praxis). To accompany students on their journey toward the self-awareness, affective freedom, and intellectual flexibility required today in the formation of men and women for global ministry.
Description
The thirty-unit Bachelor of Sacred Theology is a “first-cycle” program, must be pursued concurrent with the Master of Divinity (described above), that provides first formation in ministry.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well.
Licentiate in Sacred Theology (STL), Regis College, (Degree), In-person, $602/course ($2,700/course for International students), 1.3 years (Full-time)
To prepare Regis College students to teach Catholic theology and pursue a program of advanced study and research.
Description
This “second cycle” degree students to teach Catholic theology and pursue a program of advanced study and research in areas relevant to advanced ministerial formation. It is undertaken concurrently with the Master’s of Theology (ThM) described above.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Lay graduate students, and all who seek additional enrichment beyond “first-cycle” formation degrees.
Bursary
Full-time domestic students with need would receive 100% tuition remission. Funding available for part-time students as well. Some funding for international student available.
St. Augustine's Seminary (Seminary), Toronto, ON
Master of Theological Studies (MTS), (Degree), Combination of In-person & Online, Approximately $600/course, 2 years (Full-time)/Up to 8 years (Part-time)
For those seeking a comprehensive and foundational formation in the Church’s teachings and theological tradition.
Description
The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) is offered conjointly with the University of Toronto. A 20-course master’s degrees, the M.T.S. offers a foundational introduction to the core areas of Catholic theology. From this core, M.T.S. students choose a focus from a range of areas in theology, culminating in a comprehensive capstone research project.
The St. Augustine’s Seminary M.T.S. Degree is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and is offered conjointly with the University of Toronto, in collaboration with the Toronto School of Theology.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, Youth Ministers
Bursary
Students can apply for Tait Bursary to cover cost of one course.
Master of Religious Education (MRE), (Degree), Combination of In-person & Online, Approximately $600/course, 2 years (Full-time)/Up to 8 years (Part-time)
For Catholic educators and all those seeking a comprehensive and foundational formation in the Church’s teachings and theological tradition, with a particular emphasis on the Catholic meaning and practice of education.
Description
The Master of Religious Education (M.R.E.) is offered conjointly with the University of Toronto. This 20-course master’s degrees offers a foundational introduction to the core areas of Catholic theology. From this core, M.R.E. students move toward a greater specialization in the Catholic meaning and practice of education, culminating in a supervised practicum project.
The St. Augustine’s Seminary M.R.E. Degree is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and is offered conjointly with the University of Toronto, in collaboration with the Toronto School of Theology.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, Youth Ministers
Bursary
Students can apply for Tait Bursary to cover cost of one course.
Certificate in Theological Studies, (Certificate), Combination of In-person & Online, Approximately $600/course, 2 Semesters (Full-time)/Up to 4 years (Part-time)
To provide a foundational knowledge of the Catholic theological tradition
Description
The 7-course Certificate in Theological Studies (C.T.S.), offered conjointly with the University of Toronto, gives students an introduction to the essential theological subjects. Perfect for students who need a shorter program that doesn’t sacrifice the core theological courses.
The St. Augustine’s Seminary C.T.S. is offered conjointly with the University of Toronto, in collaboration with the Toronto School of Theology.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, Youth Ministers
Bursary
Students can apply for Tait Bursary to cover cost of one course.
Diploma in Theological Studies (DTS), (Diploma), Fully Online or a Combination of Online & In -person, Approximately $700/course, Full-time/Part-time
To provide a foundational introduction to the core theological subjects.
Description
The 10-course Diploma in Theological Studies (D.T.S.), similar to the C.T.S., offer students a more compact introduction to theology. Students in the D.T.S. have the possibility of completing the program fully online.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, Youth Ministers
Bursary
Students can apply for Tait Bursary to cover cost of one course.
Diploma in Lay Ministry (DLM), (Diploma), Combination of In-Person & Online, Approximately $700/course, 2 Semesters (Full-time)/(Part-time)
To offer to those already serving or hoping to serve as Lay Ministers the chance to enhance their ministry through theological education.
Description
The 10-course Diploma Lay Ministry (D.L.M.), similar to the C.T.S., offer students a more compact introduction to theology. Students in the D.L.M. can complete all but the capstone course in lay ministry online. The goal of the D.L.M. is offer to those already serving or hoping to serve as Lay Ministers the chance to enhance their ministry through theological education. While the D.L.M. is not a certification program for ministry, it offers a coordinated combination of foundational courses.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, Youth Ministers
Bursary
Students can apply for Tait Bursary to cover cost of one course.
St. Jerome's University (University), Waterloo, ON
Master of Catholic Thought, (Degree), In-person, $800/course (+ one-time $300 incidental fees), 5 years (Part-time)
To provide graduate level foundation in Catholic theology; personal and professional development; to provide a ‘theology of the world’ for people in leadership in Catholic institutions
Description
5 required courses + 2 elective courses + final research paper/project
The MCT program is recognized by the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Certificate in Faith and Leadership, (Certificate), Hybrid, $800/course, 1 year
To provide those in leadership positions in Catholic institutions with a micro-credential that explores important issues regarding the relationship between faith and leadership
Description
Three courses (Ethics and Leadership; Current Issues in Faith and Leadership; an elective)
This is a brand-new certificate that will be piloted in 2023-2024.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
It’s possible that the home institutions of those who seek this certificate will provide some financial support.
More Information Forthcoming
From Information to Transformation program, (No Certification), In-person, Cost paid by each home institution, 2 years
To provide participants with a deeper understanding of themselves as faith-filled Christians within the life of the church and as leaders in their own Catholic community and respective vocational contexts
Description
Six modules over two years; mentorship; integration of knowledge of Catholic faith, critical reflection and the nurturing of the spiritual and personal growth of the participants; faith formation and leadership program
A gift and symbol of recognition of completion is given at the end
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary
Each Catholic institution that sends participants to FITT pays the costs for their participants.
St. Mary’s University (University), Calgary, AB
B.A. in Social Justice & Catholic Studies (SJCS), (Degree), In-person, $9,900/year (tuition and fees), 4 years
To help students explore the richness of the Catholic intellectual tradition and, then, to use this knowledge to make our world a more just place. This is a unique interdisciplinary program that encourages critical reflection on the structural injustices that characterize society, both locally and globally, and upon the Catholic tradition and its engagement with the world. Drawing upon the theories and practices of a wide range of different disciplines, this degree equips students with the critical, analytical, and ethical skills necessary to live and work responsibly in an increasingly integrated global community.
Description
Grounded in the mission of St. Mary’s University to care for the whole person and rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, the Social Justice & Catholic Studies degree is a unique interdisciplinary program that encourages reflection on the injustices that characterize society, and upon the Catholic tradition and its engagement with the world.
Drawing upon the theories and practices of a wide range of different disciplines, this degree equips students with the critical, analytical, and ethical skills necessary to live and work responsibly in an increasingly integrated global community. Students will explore history, philosophy, and religious ideas in the Catholic tradition alongside critical political, social, and ethical issues confronting society and the environment.
Students will choose an emphasis in either Social Justice or Catholic Studies, and take an experiential learning course in their final year of study. They will put learning into practice, establish community relationships, and gain meaningful work-related experience with a community partner.
The unique degree is fully accredited by the Campus Alberta Quality Council (CAQC).
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, All are welcome
Bursary
St. Mary’s University offers an extensive range of scholarships and bursaries to students. Inquiries about scholarships and bursaries should be directed to awards@stmu.ca.
Diploma in Ministry (DPMN), (Diploma), Delivery Method, (Contact StMU’s Registrar registrar@stmu.ca for program cost), 4 years
(1) to provide the intellectual formation for those candidates seeking ordination to the permanent diaconate, and (2) to prepare individuals for lay ministry in the Church.
Description
Framed by the Roman Catholic tradition, the Diploma in Ministry program is designed for persons seeking a deeper knowledge of the faith and a comprehensive theological education in preparation for ministry and service as lay persons and permanent deacons in the Church. This program is suited to persons with life experience and a mature Catholic and Christian faith.
The program consists of four units offered over four years of study.
Each unit consists of 54 contact hours. Units are taught in six-hour session on Saturdays for once a month from September through May. Each unit is the equivalent to 4.5 academic credits and may be counted toward completion of a St. Mary’s degree program with the approval of the Registrar.
This diploma is accredited by the Board of Governors of St. Mary’s University.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, All are welcome
Bursary
St. Mary’s University offers an extensive range of scholarships and bursaries to students. Inquiries about scholarships and bursaries should be directed to awards@stmu.ca.
History 381 / Religious Studies 305: Rome and Christian Spirituality, (3-credit experiential learning course), In-person, (Contact Registrar for Cost), 1 semester (2-week trip)
To explore the development of Christian spirituality from its origins to the present day through the lens of Rome
Description
This in-depth travel study course explores the development of Christian spirituality from its origins to the present day through the lens of Rome. From ancient imperial capital to centre of the Roman Catholic Church today, the city of Rome presents a living history like no other city! This two-week course examines how Christians throughout history have approached God in prayer and practice, and how these diverse spiritualties have intersected with art, architecture, politics, and culture.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, All are welcome
Bursary
Saint Paul University (University), Ottawa, ON
Certificate in Adult Faith Education/Catechesis, (Certificate), Hybrid, Cost TBD, 1 year
A theory and practice-based program designed to educate leaders/catechist for adult faith education/catechesis
Description
A combined Theory-Practice based Programme to offer formation to leaders for Adult Faith Education/Catechesis offered through the Centre for Religious Education and Catechesis, Saint Paul University.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Retreat House Leaders, Spiritual Directors
Bursary
Bursary Opportunities TBD.
More Information Forthcoming
St. Peter's Seminary (Seminary), London, ON
Master of Divinity (M.Div.), (Degree), In-person, Tuition set by Western University, 3 years (Full-time)
To provide those seeking to minister in our churches, schools, and hospitals with a theological – pastoral foundation.
Description
The M.Div. is a professional, theological degree, recognized through the Association of Theological Schools of Canada and the United States (ATS), providing a solid foundation for pastoral ministry. In addition to theological studies, students must complete three (3) full credits of Field Education comprising of field placements and theological reflection. Graduates are found in parish pastoral ministry, campus and hospital ministry, youth ministry, and diocesan offices.
The Faculty of Theology of St. Peter’s Seminary administers this degree program by virtue of the Seminary’s affiliation with Western University through King’s University College, and through our membership with the Association of Theological Schools (ATS).
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers, Chaplains (Hospital, School, Military …)
Bursary Opportunities
Lay Students are invited to apply for the “Saint Catherine of Sienna Bursary” and assistance through the “Ontario Student Opportunity Trust Fund”. Applications must be received by October 1st of the academic year.
Notes
Occasionally, a course may be offered online synchronously.
Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), (Degree), In-person, Tuition set by Western University, 2 years (Full-time)
To provide the student with a greater knowledge of the Catholic theological tradition.
Description
The M.T.S. degree is a theological degree recognized through the Association of Theological Schools. It is a postbaccalaureate, introductory theological degree for those seeking greater knowledge of the Catholic theological tradition. This degree does not prepare students for professional ministry in the Church. It is not recognized as a graduate degree by the Ontario Council on Graduate Studies. The term “Master” is used in accordance with the practice of ATS. A 50-60 page thesis is a required component of the M.T.S. degree.
The Faculty of Theology of St. Peter’s Seminary administers this degree program by virtue of the Seminary’s affiliation with Western University through King’s University College, and through our membership with the Association of Theological Schools (ATS).
Intended Audience
Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry
Bursary
Students are eligible to apply for the Ontario Student Opportunity Trust Fund bursary. Applications must be submitted to the Director of Finances by October 1st of the academic year.
Certificate of Pastoral Ministry, (Certificate), In-person, Tuition $2,500/year, 3 years (monthly, weekend modules)
To prepare the participants to minister in a parish setting
Description
The Certificate in Pastoral Ministry (CPM) Program is a three-year program designed to educate and form the laity in ways that will foster and enrich their service in the Roman Catholic Church. The program is based on the four dimensions of formation: intellectual, human, pastoral, and spiritual.
Participants benefit from an extended learning community by studying with the candidates for the Permanent Diaconate (PD) program and their spouses. Gathering once a month on a Saturday, from September to May, participants join the PD candidates in a day long intellectual learning session, celebrate liturgy, and build community.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catechists
Bursary
The “Mary Rogister Bursary” is made available by Mr. George Rogister of St. Michael’s Parish, London, Ontario, in memory of his wife. The aim is to award it to a participant associated with St. Michael’s Parish.
St. Thomas More College (University), Saskatoon, SK
Certificate in Catholic Studies, (Certificate), Hybrid, $8,500, 1–2 years
To provide students with an interdisciplinary understanding of Catholicism and its history, artistic and literary culture, philosophical and theological thought, and role in contemporary society.
Description
The certificate in Catholic Studies provides an interdisciplinary approach to the academic study of Catholicism from the beginnings of Christianity in the ancient world to the presence of Catholicism as the largest Christian community in the world today.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary Information
Program Link
BA in Religion and Culture, (Degree), In-person, Approximately $14,000, 4 years
To engage in the academic study of religion and its impact in the world.
Description
Undergraduate program that offers courses in both Eastern and Western Religions
We also offer a Certificate in Religious Literacy (21 credit units)
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers
Bursary Information
Program Link
Certificate in Religious Literacy, (Certificate), In-person, $8,500, 1–2 years (21 credit units)
To provide students with a clear understanding of and appreciation for each religion’s internal diversity — intramural distinctions that arise due to intersectional forces shaping believers’ interpretation of their faith and its institutions; e.g., forces of gender, race and class, colonial histories, and neocolonial/global economies.
Description
The Certificate in Religious Literacy equips students pursuing degrees in Law, Business, Healthcare, Social Services, Education, and Public Policy with a working knowledge of the beliefs and practices within a variety of religious traditions.
Intended Audience
Lay Pastoral Workers, Catholic Teachers and Administrators, Clergy, Religious Men/Women, Interested Lay People Who Are Not in Ministry, Catholic Health Care Workers