Selecting your theological objective

As a graduate school of theology and ministry, several academic programs are offered to meet the diverse needs of men and women who wish to deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith and tradition and/or acquire various skills needed for ecclesial service to the Church. Below is an overview of the different programs. Use the highlighted link to activate a page with in-depth information on that program.

Doctor of Ministry in Christian Spirituality

The DMin in Christian Spirituality provides a top-level program to advance one's professional and pastoral interests and capabilities.

Masters Degrees

The Union offers four Masters Degree programs. The Master of Divinity (MDiv) and the Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (MAPS) are two forms of a professional degree designed for persons who desire to serve in positions of ministerial or pastoral leadership. The MAPS is a shorter version of the MDIV, while the MDIV is a lead-in to DMin programs.

The Master of Arts (MA) in Theology and the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) are academic degrees, focused on attaining knowledge of various theological disciplines. The MA prepares one seeking to pursue doctoral studies in various theological disciplines. Many already employed pursue the MTS to enrich their theological background in various vocational fields.

Two special programs are available that offer double degrees: the MDiv and MA; the MAPS and Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling. Each broadens one’s capabilities to pursue further theological studies or to minister in various pastoral situations.

Certificate Programs

In addition, a wide variety of Graduate Certificate programs are offered either as "stepping stones" to our degree programs or as a supplement to enriching their theological or pastoral perspective. Current certificates offered are in the fields of Carmelite Studies, Franciscan Theology and Spirituality, Spirituality Studies, Spiritual Direction Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Theological Studies, Word and Worship or Lay Liturgical Practice.

Continuing Education

Courses can also be taken without regard to degree and certificate programs for general theological interest, either to audit or to gain credits.

Distance Education

We are expanding our distance education program. The Graduate Certificate in Franciscan Theology and Spirituality and in Theological Studies are fully online along with other courses being offered either online or as hybrids (part online, part classroom) to serve your interests.