In keeping with the values of Saint Joseph’s College, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the doctrines and heritage of the Catholic Church, the Online Theology Program offers the Master of Arts in Theology, Advanced Diaconal Studies. The MA-ADS is a special 30-credit degree program providing theological and pastoral education for ordained deacons and for those in formation in diocesan diaconal programs. 

For admittance into this program, an ordained deacon must present a letter from his diocese stating he is in good standing, and a diaconal candidate must present a letter from his diocese stating he is in formation.

The student learning outcomes of the Master of Arts in Theology, Advanced Diaconal Studies are as follows:

• Identify the historical and social contexts, literary forms, and ecclesial context of Sacred Scripture

• Appreciate the theology of the life of worship in the Church

• Understand Catholic doctrines of the Trinity, Christology, ecclesiology, and Christian anthropology

• Become grounded in the foundations of Catholic moral theology

• Know and apply the guiding principles for the practice of ministry of the deacon