What Certificates are available through St. Bernard’s?

Students may pursue Certificates in Youth Ministry, Catechetical Leadership, Pastoral Ministry and Parish Business Management.

Do I have to be enrolled in a Certificate program to take classes?
No, students may register to take classes without being enrolled in a specific certificate program. Certificate courses may be taken for personal enrichment also.  You can download a current Certificate Brochure here:  Spring 2010 Brochure 

 

Do I need to have prior experience in ministry before I register for a Certification course?
No, an interest in the course topic and desire to learn more are the only requirements.  No prior expereicne is necessary.

 

Yes.  Please make an appointment with the Director of Admissions to discuss the application process, how to ransfer credits and specific Certificate requirements.

 

Should I have the support of my parish to pursue a Certificate?
Students are expected to talk with parish administrative and support staff about their interest in pursuing certification. A letter of recommendation from the student’s parish leadership is required when applying for enrollment into one of the Certificate programs.

 

How often are classes offered?
Classes are offered throughout the academic year. The academic year is divided into 3 semesters:  fall, spring and summer. Classes offered vary semester by semester. For more information on each semester’s offerings, please dowload specific Certificate brochures noted above.

 

What is the average amount of time it takes to complete a Certificate program?
While the time it takes will vary depending on personal circumstances, most Certificate programs can be completed within 2 years, assuming the student completes at least 1 course per semester.

 

How much does one course cost and how much would it cost to complete a Certificate?
Each course within the Certificate Program costs $100.00. Each certificate requires approximately 10-12 courses.

 

Does St. Bernard's offer financial aid for students enrolled in a Certificate program?
Unfortunately no.  Students in the Certificate program are not eligible for tuition assistance through St. Bernard’s, the Diocese of Rochester or Federal Student Aid. Students may seek assistance from their parish communities, however, not all parishes are able to support ministry training.  

 

Can I get credit for prior ministry experience related to the certificate program I am pursuing?
In some situations it may be possible. Please call the Admissions Office to discuss your specific needs.

How do I register for classes?
Registration for classes is very easy. Class registration can be done in-person or online. To register in-person, students need to complete the paper registration form and mail it in with payment or bring it to St. Bernard’s during the registration period. To regoster online,  please click here: Register Now! Online Registration Forms. 

 

What if I started a certificate under the old Certificate Program now want to continue?
Please contact Fr. George Heyman at (585) 271-3657 ext. 292, or email at gheyman@stbernards.edu to inquire how you can continue within the program.

 

How do I apply/matriculate into the Certificate program?
Please contact the Admissions Office at St. Bernard’s for information.  A completed application consists of a completed application form and a letter of recommendation from parish support staff. Please download the application and recommendation forms here.