Pastoral Theology
Download the program description (PDF)Master of Pastoral Theology
The MPTh is a 30-credit program composed of the following elements:
Six academic courses (18 credits):
three foundational courses (9 credits):
- THO5301 PASTORAL THEOLOGY (3cr.)
- IPA5321 PASTORAL MINISTRY AND PSYCHOLOGY (3cr.)
- IPA5322 PASTORAL MINISTRY AND SOCIOLOGY (3cr.)
two courses (6 credits) to be chosen from:
- THO5302 CATECHETICAL PASTORAL THEOLOGY (3cr.)
- THO5303 LITURGICAL PASTORAL THEOLOGY (3cr.)
- DCA5310 CHURCH LAW AND PASTORAL MINISTRY (3cr.)
- THO5304 CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY IN ITS SOCIAL DIMENSION (3cr.)
- THO5305 CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY AND ITS DEVELOPMENT (3cr.)
one elective (3 credits) to be chosen from:
- the previous list
- THO5307 STUDIES IN PASTORAL PRACTICE I (3cr.) or THO5308 STUDIES IN PASTORAL PRACTICE II (3cr.)
- any other course which, in the judgment of the Faculty, fulfils the objectives of the program.
Students may propose any course which they consider relevant to their particular future ministry. Given the present context of the Church, the following areas are particularly suggested: spiritual direction, basic counselling skills, ecumenical ministry, mission and new evangelization.
Two practicums (12 crédits):
- IPA5481 PROFESSIONAL MINISTRY PRACTICUM I (6cr.)
- IPA5482 PROFESSIONAL MINISTRY PRACTICUM II(6cr.)
Duration of the Program
Students are expected to fulfill all requirements within two years. The maximum time permitted is four years from the date of initial registration in the program.
Minimum Standards
The passing grade in all courses is C+. Students who fail two courses (equivalent to 6 credits) must withdraw from the program.
Fast-track from MA to PhD program
Students enrolled in the MA program may be allowed to transfer to the PhD program without being required to write a master’s thesis provided they meet the following conditions:
- Achievement of an A- average in the last two years of undergraduate studies;
- Completion of at least four graduate courses (12 credits) with a grade of A- or better in each;
- Satisfactory progress in the thesis program;
- Written recommendation by the supervisor;
- Approval by the graduate studies committee.
The student must request permission to fast-track during the fourth session of registration or earlier and must register in the PhD in the fifth session at the latest. Following the transfer, all of the requirements of the doctoral program must be met.
Transfer from MA with thesis to MA with research paper
Students in either the MA (with thesis) or MA (with research paper) may transfer between the two options and qualify for the MA as long as all degree requirements are completed.