Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry program at the University of the Incarnate Word prepares leaders for contemporary ecclesial ministries, including parish ministry, religious education, and youth ministry. The 36-credit hour program emphasizes scripture, theology, and ministry, and culminates in a supervised Pastoral Project. Graduates are equipped to articulate a vision of Catholic mission, shape ministry settings, and lead catechetical programs.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Program Overview:

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Pastoral Ministry graduate program at the University of the Incarnate Word is crafted to prepare leaders in contemporary ecclesial ministries, specifically in Catholic parish ministries, religious education, spirituality and spiritual development, youth ministry and catechetical leadership, or as a mission leader in Catholic healthcare or education.

Objectives:

• To enable students to describe and integrate into ministerial practice a theology of revelation as embodied in scripture, tradition and creation, as well as a Catholic theology of God, church, sacraments and ethics.
• To foster sound practices of compassionate pastoral care appropriate to their skill levels and training.

Program Description:

The 36-credit hour degree plan is structured around three core areas of study: scripture, theology (historical, sacramental, liturgical, moral and ecclesial aspects) and ministry. The program typically culminates with an individually designed supervised Pastoral Project. Students have the flexibility to incorporate a second field into their degree plan through other UIW graduate departments, particularly the Dreeben School of Education or the School of Osteopathic Medicine.

Outline:

Program Content and Structure:

The M.A. in Pastoral Ministry program consists of the following core courses:

• Scripture
• Theology (historical, sacramental, liturgical, moral and ecclesial aspects)

Careers:

Potential Career Paths and Opportunities:

The M.A. in Pastoral Ministry program prepares graduates for leadership roles in various ecclesial ministries, including:

• Catholic parish ministry
• Religious education
• Spirituality and spiritual development
• Youth ministry
• Catechetical leadership
• Mission leadership in Catholic healthcare or education

Outcomes:

Successful completion of the program enables graduates to:

• Articulate a vision of Catholic mission appropriate to their ministry setting.
• Shape a vision for their ministry setting in working for the mission.
• Identify the theological, pastoral and socio-cultural principles and values underlying the Christian community.
• Shape a vision for a parish or other faith community seeking to live out the Gospel together.
• Oversee initial and ongoing formation for catechists.
• Shape and lead catechetical programs appropriate to the age, culture and other characteristics of those participating.