Recommended
resources to help you explore graduate school opportunities:
Peterson’s Guide to Graduate and Professional Programs: An
Overview. (Princeton, N.J.) and Getting What
You Paid For: The Smart Student's Guide to Earning an M.A. or a Ph.D. by
Robert Peters. You can also get tips on "former friendly" graduate
programs and financial aid information from the
Former Volunteer section of our website or by clicking
here.
In this section, is some
information for those who are considering advanced theological training. There are several
options that exist for lay people who are interested in some type of
theological education. Just a few of these are:
Diocesan Programs:
Many dioceses have short and longer term programs for people interested in
specific topics, as well as for those interested in such things as
directing RCIA (The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults), entering
the Diaconate, becoming a Master Catechist, or a Spiritual Director. Usually, more information on these programs is available through the Adult
Education Office, RCIA Office, or Vocations Office in the diocese.
Catholic Colleges:
Catholic colleges often have very practical courses which are offered
through the Religious Studies Department. These courses vary from college
to college, and may often be taken through adult education or extension
programs.
Seminaries:
In many cases, both diocesan and non-diocesan seminaries offer courses for
enrichment as well as full degree programs for lay persons interested in
pursuing a career in the Church. Options on degree programs vary, but
generally they include at least two of the following:
n M.A. (Masters of Arts
in Theology). This, like other M.A.'s, is an academic degree, a
prerequisite for a Ph.D. It prepares one for teaching. Usually an M.A.
candidate concentrates on a particular area of theology (Scripture,
Systematic Theology, Church History) and gains expertise in that field.
n M.T.S. (Master of
Theological Studies). Like the M.A., this is usually a two-year course
of study. Unlike the M.A., it is usually more pastoral in emphasis and is
geared toward the person interested in a specific ministry. It usually
consists of a concentration in a particular field of study.
n M.Div. (Masters of
Divinity). Although the M.Div. is the degree usually pursued by
candidates for the priesthood, more and more seminaries are making this
degree available to interested lay persons. Usually 2-3 years of full-time
study are required, and the successful candidate will have a broad
knowledge of different areas of theology and pastoral studies, including
Canon law, Counseling, Liturgy, and Ethics, as well as those mentioned as
possible areas of concentration for the M.A. and more.
Pursuit of each of these degrees requires a good deal of
time as well as money. Although it may be difficult for lay persons to get
financial aid for these programs, it is not impossible. Often research
will turn up possible sources of scholarships, including diocesan grants
(sometimes available in connection with previous work done in the diocese
and a commitment to future work in the diocese). See
www.usccb.org/laity/laymin/faq.shtml.
Information on diocesan seminaries is frequently
available through the Vocations Office of the diocese.
A list of "former friendly" theology programs is listed in the Former
Volunteers section of our website.
