Program Overview

Introduction to the Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Mission Leadership

The Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Mission Leadership is an interdisciplinary online program offered collaboratively by Loyola's Neiswanger Institute for Bioethics & Healthcare Leadership at the Stritch School of Medicine, the Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing, and the Institute of Pastoral Studies. The Neiswanger Institute also partners with Loyola University Chicago's Department of Theology to deepen the theological component of the program.

Program Overview

The integration of courses from theology, spirituality, bioethics, organizational development, and leadership offers a well-rounded degree pertinent to the work being done in Catholic hospitals and health systems throughout the world. The program is shaped to meet the Competencies for Healthcare Mission Leadership designed by the Catholic Health Association.

Program Objectives

The graduate programs equip students to:

• Be articulate on the foundations of Catholic and Christian traditions and how they can shape healthcare
  • Develop a stronger understanding of Catholic ministries
  • Collaborate with church authorities to further Catholic healthcare ministry
• Become conversant in the ethical challenges that can arise in the healthcare milieu
  • Address those circumstances using insight from Catholic ethics and bioethics
• Cultivate and maintain an organizational culture that works in concert with a Catholic vision of healthcare
• Understand the complexities of Catholic healthcare as well as the financial environment in which it functions

Program Structure

The Healthcare Mission Leadership programs can be completed entirely online, offering a highly accessible option for working professionals and individuals looking for greater flexibility. The innovative online environment encourages interaction, collaboration, and a sense of community among students, while also offering a great depth of academic content. The nationally-recognized faculty provides valuable engagement and networking among peers and experts in Catholic healthcare.

Faculty and Community

The key ingredients to a successful experience in an online educational program are the quality of the students and the dedication of the faculty. Students have the opportunity to join fellow physicians, nurses, chaplains, lawyers, social workers, and other healthcare professionals in becoming future leaders in the field of mission integration.