Marian University (www.marian.edu) has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission to offer a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry. The university is accepting applications now for the inaugural cohort, which will begin classes in fall 2018.
The two-year, full-time terminal degree is designed for adult learners presently serving, or intending to serve, the Church as a pastoral minister. Applicants in roles of ecclesial lay leadership, catechetical positions, and/or volunteer lay ministers in general can benefit from the curriculum, which offers a broad background in practical/pastoral theology that fosters a professional approach to ministry within the context of contemporary culture.
“Not only is our vision to form transformative leaders, but our mission is to promote our Franciscan values,” Sister Margaret Schreiber, program director, said. “These values, as well as guidelines for certification as an ecclesial minister, provide a strong foundation for those who are called to serve God’s mission.”
Admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.00
- Pastoral ministry work experience
- Application for admission with responses to essay questions
- Three letters of recommendation (one academic, two pastoral)
- Interview with program faculty, if selected
The program requires completion of 10 didactic classes, two leadership seminars, and two supervised ministry experiences. Over the course of two years of full-time study, students will complete the courses as a cohort, which adds to the learning experience. Two classes will meet on Marian University’s campus on the near-westside of Indianapolis on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and one class will be taken online.
Degree completion provides a path to several employment opportunities, including:
- Director of Diocesan Offices
- Directors of Faith Formation
- Directors of Youth Ministry
- Lay Ecclesial Ministry
- Parish Life Coordinators
- Pastoral Life Coordinators
- Pastoral Care of the Sick and Elderly
- Preparation for Chaplaincy (CPE Required)
Questions about the program can be directed to Sr. Margaret Schreiber mschreiber@marian.edu or 317-955-6557. For questions about applying to the program contact GRadmissions@marian.edu or 317.955.6128. Applications can be submitted online at marian.edu/applynow.
About Marian University Indianapolis
Marian University (www.marian.edu), founded in Indianapolis in 1937, is the only Catholic liberal arts university in central Indiana. It serves a student body of nearly 4,000 through dedication to excellent teaching and learning in the Franciscan and liberal arts traditions. Marian University is one of Indiana’s 31 independent colleges and one of 244 Catholic colleges and universities nationwide. Since 2001, Marian University has been led by President Daniel J. Elsener, whose vision and leadership are transforming the university. In 2013, Marian University opened the Michael A. Evans Center for Health Sciences, home to its College of Osteopathic Medicine. Marian University has amassed 39 national championships in cycling, captured the NAIA Football National Championship in 2012 and 2015, and won back-to-back NAIA Women’s Basketball National Championships in 2016 and 2017.