Master of Arts in Philosophy and Theology for Ministry

Saint Louis University’s Master of Arts in Philosophy and Theology for Ministry, offered through the College of Philosophy and Letters, provides the interdisciplinary foundations for intelligent ministry in the church and further divinity studies required for ordination. For future priests, the SLU degree also offers the opportunity to satisfy one year of the four years of graduate theological studies required for ordination. To complete the M.A., students must integrate studies with their ministerial engagements or life experiences relevant to reflection on ministry. The St. Louis area offers a wide range of opportunities for such engagement. In addition, students may engage in the many service opportunities offered through Saint Louis University, which is a national leader in student service. Saint Louis University’s Master of Arts in Philosophy and Theology for Ministry provides the intellectual foundations for intelligent service of the Gospel and further studies in divinity. Together with suitable prerequisites in philosophy, the program allows students to complete the philosophical coursework and one year of theological coursework required for ordination in the Catholic priesthood, as stipulated in the "Program of Priestly Formation (PPF). Students will be able to assess relevant literature in philosophy and theology. Students will be able to discuss connections among major thinkers and ideas that have shaped the history of philosophy and theology.  Students will be able to analyze challenges in the contexts of ministry using philosophy, theology and other relevant sources of knowledge (personal experience and other disciplinary knowledge if pertinent).  Students will be able to evidence professional integrity in their reflection on challenges in contexts of ministry. Philosophers have long questioned the nature of existence and agency. Theologians have engaged with philosophical traditions in developing their understanding of individual and collective beliefs. This programme offers you an opportunity to explore these intersections. You will study the metaphysical, ethical and theological traditions that have shaped contemporary thinking.  

Career Path 

Graduate career path includes Secondary School Teacher (Religion/Philosophy), Scientific Journal Editor (Philosophy/Theology Focus), Community Education Program Coordinator, Curriculum Developer (Faith-Based Education Programs), Academic Advisor (Humanities/Religion Focus), Adult Education Instructor (Faith/Philosophy), Research Assistant (Philosophy/Theology Studies), Director of Religious Education, Parish Education Coordinator, Youth Ministry Director, Catechetical Leader, Interfaith Program Director, Spiritual Formation Director, Ministry Program Coordinator, Faith-Based Outreach Consultant, Advocacy Specialist (Interfaith/Religious Freedom), Cultural Affairs Officer (Religion/Education), Humanitarian Aid Coordinator (Faith-Based Organizations), International Development Specialist (Faith-Based Programs), NGO Program Coordinator (Faith/Community Outreach),Public Information Officer (Religion/Community Engagement), Community Development Specialist (Religion/Education), Corporate Ethics Specialist.