In keeping with the mission and values of Saint Joseph’s College, the Theology Department is pleased to offer 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