Theology - Pastoral Theology

This level 9 programme forms part of a minister’s continuing journey of growth and development, strengthening capacity for ministry leadership in the Church, which includes taking significant responsibility for the work of individuals and groups, and for leading and initiating mission-focused activity in a wide (and sometimes unpredictable) variety of professional levels and contexts.

The minimum entry requirement for the programme is an honours primary degree in which Theology comprises at least an equal joint honours component. Applicants should normally have obtained at least a Second Class Honours, Grade I overall, and Second Class Honours, Grade I in Theology. Applicants should also have significant experience in ministry practice. Individual and group interviews form an essential part of the selection process. The Faculty of Theology may also accept applicants whom it deems to have achieved an equivalent standard. They may be required to take additional courses in Theology to qualify for admission. In particular, applicants who have obtained a minimum 2H1 in the Higher Diploma in Pastoral Theology (level 8) may be considered for admission to a one-year MTh (level 9) in Pastoral Theology. As part of the application process, such applicants will submit a Major Essay (5,000–7,000 words) on a topic relevant to Pastoral Ministry, written under the supervision of a member of the Faculty. The evaluation of this essay will form part of the admission interview, and its content may provide a foundation for the eventual Masters dissertation. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to satisfy the English language requirements of St Patrick’s Pontifical University. St Patrick’s Pontifical University also accepts applications to its programmes from all prospective students who possess the ability, knowledge and experience through its widening participation schemes. The University operates a Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)and Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme which recognises relevant prior learning and experience for admission and/or credit purposes. Full details are available on the University website. If you have any queries please contact admissions@spcm.ie Candidates whose first language is not English will be required to satisfy the English language requirement. Successful individual and group interviews are an essential part of the selection process.