The Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (MAPS) provides students with a dynamic combination of theological and ministerial formation, which prepares them to offer an engaging, well-formed witness to the world.
The MAPS is well-designed for those who wish to serve the Church as a lay ecclesial minister, for those called to work in parish-based ministries, for those in permanent diaconate formation programs, and for those who seek to be formed in the theological and pastoral vision of the Church. Students can complete this degree in pastoral studies online or on campus.
The MAPS features a comprehensive core curriculum drawn from all areas of theology (Biblical Theology, Historical Theology, Systematic Theology, and Pastoral Theology) and is accompanied by Pastoral Field Education experiences that provide concrete opportunities for ministerial service. Several electives are crucial for students to explore additional coursework that pertains to their interests or their mission in the Church.
The MAPS is also the basis for the intellectual formation in several dioceses’ permanent diaconate formation programs. It is customizable in the context of these formation programs, with specified electives and program-pacing to meet formational needs. Prospective dioceses with interest in drawing upon the MAPS for their permanent diaconate formation program should contact Dr. Matthew Kuhner for more information.
A student who completes the MAPS can expect:
1. To demonstrate an understanding of the sources of Catholic theology
2. To evaluate contemporary beliefs, assumptions, and societal issues in light of the Catholic intellectual tradition
3. To integrate theological reflection, spiritual development, and ministerial practice;
4. To evidence skills conducive to effective ministry
Program Overview
15 courses (45 credits)
- Foundational Courses
- C215 – Introduction to Theological Studies
- D214 – Spiritual Formation
- Area A: Biblical Theology
- A202 – Old Testament
- A203 – New Testament
- Area B: Historical Theology
- B Area Elective
- Area C: Systematic Theology
- C217 Fundamental Moral Theology
- C226 Liturgical and Sacramental Theology
- C228 Ecclesiology and the Theology of Ministry
- C302 Christology and Trinitarian Theology
- Area D: Pastoral Theology
- D207 Canon Law and Ministerial Leadership
- D217 Pastoral Care
- D302 Pastoral Field Education
- D-Area Elective
- General Electives
- General Elective I
- General Elective II
To explore further the courses available in the MAPS program, click here to view our Course Catalog, which offers a listing of courses and course descriptions!
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
What is a Master's in Pastoral Studies?
A Masters in Pastoral Studies degree at St. Bernard's is a combination of theological and ministerial formation, which prepares students to offer an engaging, well-formed witness to the world. Those preparing for ecclesial ministry will wish to explore this degree program. -
What is the difference between pastoral care and counseling?
The difference between pastoral care and counseling is that pastoral care is an application of the theological training received at St. Bernard's to a specific practical ministry, while pastoral counseling is a specific type of therapy provided by certified pastoral counselors. -
What qualifications do you need to become a pastoral care worker?
The qualifications needed to become a pastoral care worker vary according to context and dimensions of ministry. The Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies is intended to prepare the student for a broad range of contexts and ministries. -
Can you become a counselor with a theology degree?
While those interested in counseling would greatly benefit from a Masters in Pastoral Studies, this degree program will not provide the requisite formation to become a counselor in the clinical, professional sense. -
What are some examples of pastoral care?
Some examples of pastoral care include the corporal and spiritual works of mercy, particularly those that occur within contexts of parish and ecclesial ministry. -
Can I pursue a Masters in Pastoral Studies online?
Yes, St. Bernard's offer's our pastoral studies degree online both synchronously (live via Zoom) and asynchronously (at your own pace) for those unable to attend in person. More information about pursuing pastoral studies online can be found here: https://www.stbernards.edu/distance-learning-and-online-education
