Return to: Graduate Programs

In keeping with the mission and values of Saint Joseph’s College, the Theology Department is pleased to offer the Master of Divinity (MDiv) program. Created in accordance with the guidelines in the United States Council of Catholic Bishop’s “Vineyard of the Lord: A Resource for Guiding the Development of Lay Ecclesial Ministry,” this robust program prepares Catholic laity and permanent deacons for ministerial work in the Catholic church and provides prerequisite programming for students planning to pursue the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) degree. An accelerated track is available to students who hold a Master’s Degree in Theology or Ministry. 

Program Highlights

• This program professes fidelity to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the doctrine and heritage of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Students develop an understanding and appreciation of the Catholic faith with a specific emphasis on application in ministry.
• The program is accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE). It is not accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and does not lead to ordination. 

Admission Requirements

• Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• A letter from your pastor attesting that you are a Roman Catholic in good standing
• A 300-600 word essay explaining your discernment process in applying for the Master of Divinity degree and what you feel called to do beyond its completion.

The Master of Divinity consists of 90 credits taken from the following areas: Biblical Studies (9), Theology (21), Moral Theology (12), Liturgy and Spirituality (9), Ministry (18), Electives (18), and a Capstone Practicum in Ministry (3).