Course Summary
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.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
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 [email protected]
Application Details
Application Deadline:
30th April 2025
For EU & those living on the island of Ireland (Late applications may be considered).
01st March 2025
For non EU
Course Start Date: September 2025
Fees
Application Deadline:
1st April 2023 For EU & those living on the island of Ireland (Late applications may be considered). 1st April 2023 For non EU.
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
- Education and health care chaplaincy
- Catechesis & Faith Development
- Sacramental Preparation Coordination
- Retreat Ministry
- Continued academic studies in pastoral theology