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Educational Programs for Adults
7/25/2008
 

Many individuals are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith, beyond what their parish can offer; yet, there is no Catholic college or university nearby for them to attend.  In 2001, the US Bishops’ Committee on the Laity surveyed all accredited Catholic colleges, universities, seminaries and schools of theology which offer classes to lay people through distance learning programs. In some cases, programs are offered at alternate sites beyond the academic institution's campus. In other cases, programs are offered via the internet, sometimes utilizing video, real-time sessions, and email discussions. All of these distance learning options enable students living far from the campus to access new educational resources.

The list below is a second generation of the original one.  It is constantly being updated.  You should always contact the school directly for the latest information.

Note that in addition to all of the academic institutions listed below, there are many more which offer programs on campus. In addition, many dioceses and other Catholic organizations also offer classes in the areas of theology, ministry, spirituality and religious education.

To learn of additional programs available in your local area, contact your Diocese.
 
 
Table of Contents
Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, MO
Brescia University, Owensboro, KY
Caldwell College, Caldwell, NJ
Catholic Distance University, Hamilton, VA
Chaminade University of Honolulu, Honolulu, HI
Creighton University, Omaha, NE
Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA
Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT
Felician College, Lodi, NJ
Franciscan University of Steubenville, Steubenville, OH
Gannon University, Erie, PA
Gannon University, Erie, PA
Holy Apostles College and Seminary, Cromwell, CT
Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, LA
Madonna University, Livonia, MI
Marymount University, Arlington, VA
Mount Marty College, Yankton, SD
Oblate School of Theology, San Antonio, TX
Pontifical College Josephinum, Columbus, OH
Regis University, Denver, CO
Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, CT
Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Wynnewood,, PA
Saint Francis University, Loretto, PA
Saint Joseph's College, Rensselaer, IN
Saint Joseph's College/Maine, Standish, ME
Saint Leo University, St. Leo, FL
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, Winona, MN
Saint Meinrad School of Theology, Saint Meinrad, IN
St. Ambrose University, Davenport, IA
St. John's University School of Theology Seminary, Collegeville, MN
St. Mary's University, San Antonio, TX
University of Dallas, Irving, TX
University of Dayton, Dayton, OH
University of Great Falls, Great Falls, MT
University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN
Ursuline College, Pepper Pike, OH
 
Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis, MO
Description:
A Dominican graduate school offering a DMin degree in preaching, an MA in Pastoral Ministry, an MA in Health Care Mission, and an MA in Pastoral Studies in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Programs are technology-enhanced. Syllabi are web-based with threaded discussion, audio, and streaming video, but professor goes to off-campus site for pre-study and intensive weekends.
Accredited By:
ATS and Regional Accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
MA degrees and DMin degree
Distance Learning:
At alternate sites and via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.ai.edu/programs/academic/internet.php
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Brescia University, Owensboro, KY
Description:
Ministry Formation offers the following options: BA in Pastoral Ministry, AA degree in Catechetical and Youth Ministry and an AA degree in Pastoral Ministry. A Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Pastoral Ministry is also available. Courses matriculating toward the Ministry Formation degrees are available on campus, off-campus at alternate sites, and online.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by SACS
Types of Programs:
AA degree, BA degree, and Certificate programs
Distance Learning:
Alternate sites and via the internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.brescia.edu/index.asp?PageID=6333
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Caldwell College, Caldwell, NJ
Description:
Adults may receive a BA in Theology by means of the External Degree Program. They meet with the professor once and do the work via email or mail.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by MSA
Types of Programs:
BA degree
Distance Learning:
Via email or mail
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.caldwell.edu
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Catholic Distance University, Hamilton, VA
Description:
The Catholic Distance University was established in 1983 to offer adult faith formation and theological education exclusively through online interactive seminars. CDU offers noncredit continuing education, a MA degree in Theology, a BA in Theology Degree (degree-completion), the Catechetical Diploma, and an Advanced Catechist Certificate.
Accredited By:
Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC)
Types of Programs:
MA degree, BA degree and certificate programs
Distance Learning:
All programs are administered through online and paper-based technologies. No residency required.
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.cdu.edu
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Chaminade University of Honolulu, Honolulu, HI
Description:
A Marianist university offering a BA degree in Religious Studies. The university has a close relationship with two other Marianist universities, University of Dayton (Ohio) and St. Mary’s University (San Antonio, TX) where students can take a portion of their classes at the other campuses. All programs presently require some on-campus courses. Some courses are available online.
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by WASC
Types of Programs:
BA degree
Distance Learning:
Alternate sites, via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.chaminade.edu/online/
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Creighton University, Omaha, NE
Description:
A Jesuit university offering an MA in Theology, an MA in Christian Spirituality, MA in Ministry (in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Omaha). Also offers certificate, continuing education/enrichment classes and a BA in Theology. Some classes are offered offsite and some theology courses are offered online.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by NCACS
Types of Programs:
MA degree, BA degree, and certificate programs
Distance Learning:
Alternate sites, via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://moses.creighton.edu/calef/grad/index.htm
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Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA
Description:
The university offers a PhD in Systematic Theology, an MA in Pastoral Ministry, an MA in Religious Education, an MA in Theology and certificate programs. Several graduate courses are offered online. A BA in theology is offered on-campus.
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by MSA
Types of Programs:
PhD, MA and certificate programs
Distance Learning:
Via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.gradtheology.duq.edu/
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Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT
Description:
A Jesuit university offering undergraduate courses in Religious Studies and Applied Ethics via the internet. Courses can apply towards a BA degree.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by NEASC
Types of Programs:
Continuing education / enrichment; Several undergraduate classes that can be applied towards a BA degree.
Distance Learning:
Via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.fairfield.edu/x3875.html
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Felician College, Lodi, NJ
Description:
A Franciscan college sponsored by the Felician Sisters offering an MA in Religious Education, a Post Master’s Certificate in Religious Education, and a Graduate Certificate in Religious Education. Programs are offered fully online.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation - MSA
Types of Programs:
MA degree and certificate programs
Distance Learning:
Via the internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.felician.edu/online/index.asp?psection=r_studies
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Franciscan University of Steubenville, Steubenville, OH
Description:
Franciscan university offering an MA in Theology and Christian Ministry. The majority of the classes are via audio lectures (cassette or MP3) along with a study guide (print or HTML). Students choose what date to start each class and have 6 months to finish it. Six credits must be taken on-campus (3-week summer sessions) or in Rome.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by NCACIHE
Types of Programs:
MA degree
Distance Learning:
By mail/email
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.franciscan.edu/home2/Content/DistanceLearning/main.aspx?id=664&cat=119
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Gannon University, Erie, PA
Description:
A university affiliated with the Diocese of Erie offering a BA in Theology, an MA in Pastoral Studies, a Graduate Pastoral Associate certificate program and a Graduate Religious Education certificate program.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by MSA
Types of Programs:
BA degree, MA degree and certificates
Distance Learning:
Via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.gannon.edu/PROGRAMS/GRAD/pastorl2.asp
Top
 
Gannon University, Erie, PA
Description:
A university affiliated with the Diocese of Erie offering a BA in Theology, an MA in Pastoral Studies, a Graduate Pastoral Associate certificate program and a Graduate Religious Education certificate program.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by MSA
Types of Programs:
BA degree, MA degree and certificates
Distance Learning:
TBD
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.gannon.edu/PROGRAMS/GRAD/pastorl2.asp
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Holy Apostles College and Seminary, Cromwell, CT
Description:
A college and seminary offering an MA degree in Theology via the internet. Students have up to 10 years to complete the degree. Individual courses may also be taken for personal enrichment.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by NEASC
Types of Programs:
MA degree and courses for enrichment
Distance Learning:
Via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.holyapostles.edu
Top
 
Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, LA
Description:
Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension (LIMEX) offers a Master of Religious Education (MRE) degree and a Master of Pastoral Studies (MPS) degree, as well as Certificates in Religious Studies, in Pastoral Studies, in Catechetical Leadership, in Christian Spirituality, and in Parish Life and Administration. Courses are offered at alternate sites and also online.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by SACS
Types of Programs:
Master's degree; Certificate program; Continuing Education/Enrichment
Distance Learning:
Alternate sites and via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.loyno.edu/lim
Top
 
Madonna University, Livonia, MI
Description:
A Franciscan university founded by the Felician Sisters. Numerous courses are offered through distance learning including classes in theology, ministry, religion, church leadership and medical ethics. Classes can be taken for credit for a degree, or for enrichment
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
Bachelor's degree, Associate's Degree, and Continuing Education/Enrichment classes
Distance Learning:
At alternate sites and via the internet, email, videos and audiotapes
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.madonna.edu/pages/distancelearning.cfm
Top
 
Marymount University, Arlington, VA
Description:
Offers an MA in Pastoral Counseling and in Spiritual Care, as well as an MEd in Catholic School Leadership.
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by MSA
Types of Programs:
MA and MEd degrees; graduate certificate
Distance Learning:
Via the Internet and alternate sites
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.marymount.edu/academic/graduate.html
Top
 
Mount Marty College, Yankton, SD
Description:
A Benedictine college offering an MA in Pastoral Ministries via online distance learning. Students attend a four day weekend session at the beginning of each trimester and then complete the rest of the course work via email and the internet. Degree can usually be completed in 2 to 2˝ years.
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
MA degree
Distance Learning:
Alternate sites and via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.mtmc.edu/academics/majors/pastoral_ministries/index.html
Top
 
Oblate School of Theology, San Antonio, TX
Description:
Sponsored by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, the school sees itself as a missionary institution whose focus is missionary. DMin degrees are offered in Clinical Pastoral Education, in Ministry Supervision and in US Hispanic/Latino Ministry. Students attend a three week session in June and January and complete the rest of the course work from home via distance learning. Certificate programs are also available.
Accredited By:
ATS, Regional accreditation by SACS
Types of Programs:
DMin degree, certificate program
Distance Learning:
Alternate sites and via mail, email, and internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English and Spanish
Website: http://www.ost.edu/WEB2006/DEGREES/D_Min.htm
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Pontifical College Josephinum, Columbus, OH
Description:
A Catholic seminary which also offers enrichment courses for continuing education.
Accredited By:
ATS and Regional Accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
Enrichment courses
Distance Learning:
At alternate sites
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.pcj.edu
Top
 
Regis University, Denver, CO
Description:
A Jesuit university offering online programs and programs at alternate sites in Colorado and Nevada, including a BA degree in Religious Studies.
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
BA degree, MA degree, certificate programs and enrichment classes
Distance Learning:
Alternate sites in Colorado and Nevada and via email and internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.regis.edu/sps.htm
Top
 
Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, CT
Description:
MA degree in Teaching – Catholic School Leadership is offered, as well as certificates in Catholic School Leadership, in Religion (in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Hartford) and in Spiritual Direction. Individual courses are available online
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by NEA
Types of Programs:
Individual courses
Distance Learning:
Via internet and email
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.sacredheart.edu/pages/17_online_learning.cfm
Top
 
Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Wynnewood,, PA
Description:
A seminary offering certain classes for enrichment and for an MA degree or certificate via alternate sites and online/email. Areas include Catholic Theology, Sacred Scripture, Catholic Religious Studies, Youth Ministry, Liturgical Music & Liturgical Studies, Pastoral Service with Concentration in Ministry to African-American Catholics, Catholic Social Ministry and Catechist Diploma.
Accredited By:
ATS and Regional Accreditation by MSA
Types of Programs:
MA degree, certificate programs and continuing education/enrichment classes
Distance Learning:
Alternate sites and via the internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.scs.edu/academic.htm
Top
 
Saint Francis University, Loretto, PA
Description:
Sponsored by the Franciscans of the Third Order Regular, the university offers an online certificate in Catholic Studies, as well as enrichment courses.
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by MSA
Types of Programs:
Certificate in Catholic Studies and continuing education/enrichment courses
Distance Learning:
Via the internet, e-mail and mail
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.cermusa.francis.edu/csd/Certificate.htm
Top
 
Saint Joseph's College, Rensselaer, IN
Description:
Saint Joseph College, in conjunction with four dioceses in Indiana, prepares competent laity for ecclesial ministry positions through the Ecclesial Lay Ministry Program.. This is a diocesan certificate program, but an individual with a B.A./ B.S. from an accredited institution, may earn a second B.A. in Lay Ecclesial Ministry following completion of the Certificate program with additional coursework in theology and pastoral ministry.
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
BA and continuing education/enrichment
Distance Learning:
At alternate Deanery Sites across the diocese
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English & Spanish
Website: http://www.saintjoe.edu/majors/
Top
 
Saint Joseph's College/Maine, Standish, ME
Description:
Rooted in the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy, the college offers an MA in Pastoral Theology and BA in Theological Studies through distance learning. No on-campus attendance is required. Students may begin their study anytime; no need to wait for the start of a semester.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by NEASC
Types of Programs:
BA and MA degrees using the internet and email/phone.
Distance Learning:
Via the internet and mail
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.sjcme.edu/gps/religiousstudies.htm
Top
 
Saint Leo University, St. Leo, FL
Description:
Saint Leo offers individual undergraduate courses in Religion via the internet.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by SACS
Types of Programs:
Undergraduate courses
Distance Learning:
Via the internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://info.saintleo.edu/COL/
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Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN
Description:
BA degree in Theology through the Woods External Degree program. An MA in Pastoral Theology and a Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Theology also are offered but require some residency time. These include eight weekend residencies, one 3-day liturgy praticuum, and two 7-day intensive courses.
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
BA and MA degrees; Certificate
Distance Learning:
Via internet/email
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.smwc.edu/cgi-bin/site.pl?3208&dwContent_contentID=347&menuID=804&weight=52
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Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, Winona, MN
Description:
The Institute in Pastoral Ministries offers an MA in Pastoral Ministries, an MA in Pastoral Administration, a Professional Certificate in Pastoral Ministry and a Professional Certificate in Pastoral Administration. Courses begin after Easter and conclude before Advent and involve assignments and reading at home. A two-week residency occurs mid-summer where students and faculty immerse into critical dialogue, common prayer and relaxation.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
MA degrees and Professional Certificates
Distance Learning:
Via internet/email
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.smumn.edu/ipm
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Saint Meinrad School of Theology, Saint Meinrad, IN
Description:
Founded by the Benedictine Monks from Switzerland, Saint Meinrad’s offers an MA degree in Catholic Thought and Life and an MA degree in Theological Studies in various part-time formats. Main distance format is a weekend course, which entails meeting on the main campus or Indianapolis satellite site all day Saturday and Sunday, once a month for three months, per 3-credit course. Other distance formats include totally online courses, or web-hybrids (three monthly Saturdays of classroom instruction
Accredited By:
ATS and Regional Accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
MA degrees
Distance Learning:
Weekend courses, alternate sites, online courses, web-hybrids
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.saintmeinrad.edu/programs_lay_ovr.aspx
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St. Ambrose University, Davenport, IA
Description:
A liberal arts university associated with the Diocese of Davenport, St. Ambrose offers the MA of Pastoral Studies degree. Courses include online classes which “meet” once a week via the internet during the fall and spring semesters. Remaining courses are offered during a three-week summer residency. Students can complete the degree in 2 to 4 years.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
MA degree
Distance Learning:
Via internet and intensive on-campus sessions
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.sau.edu/mpth/default.html
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St. John's University School of Theology Seminary, Collegeville, MN
Description:
A Benedictine university, St. John’s offers graduate level courses for credit towards an MA or MDiv degree. Workshops in pastoral ministry. The Virtual Monastery offers ongoing formation and continuing education for religious communities.
Accredited By:
ATS and Regional Accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
Master's degree; Certificate program; Continuing Education/Enrichment
Distance Learning:
Via the internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.csbsju.edu/sot/programs/default.htm
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St. Mary's University, San Antonio, TX
Description:
Offers the MA degree in Pastoral Ministry and a Certificate of Graduate Theological Studies. Distance learning sites include Austin, Marble Falls, College Station and Temple.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by SACS
Types of Programs:
MA degree; Certificate program
Distance Learning:
At alternate sites
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.stmarytx.edu/grad/pastoral_ministry/
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University of Dallas, Irving, TX
Description:
The University of Dallas School of Ministry offers the MA in Theological Studies degree online. It also offers online the Catholic Biblical School designed for Catholic adults wanting solid formation in Bible study.
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by SACS
Types of Programs:
MA degree and Adult Faith Formation
Distance Learning:
Via Internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English & Spanish
Website: http://www.udallas.edu/irps/online.cfm
Top
 
University of Dayton, Dayton, OH
Description:
A Catholic Marianist institution, the University of Dayton offers a program called the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation. Classes include Scripture, Sacraments, Catholic Beliefs, Church History, Jesus, and other related topics. The classes are designed to support adult faith formation and the catechetical ministry of the Church
Accredited By:
ATS and Regional Accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
Continuing Education/Enrichment classes
Distance Learning:
Alternate sites and via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English and Spanish
Website: http://vlc.udayton.edu
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University of Great Falls, Great Falls, MT
Description:
The University was founded through the collaborative efforts of the Sisters of Providence, the Ursuline Sisters, the Catholic Bishop of Great Falls and the civic community. It offers a degree in Theology and Ministry as well as a certificate in Lay Ecclesial Ministry. Some of the courses for both can be taken online through the distance learning program.
Accredited By:
Regional accreditation by NASC
Types of Programs:
Courses to fulfill university core requirements for individuals matriculating toward a degree in Theology or Religion or a certificate.
Distance Learning:
Internet, videotaped lectures and follow-up audio conferences
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.ugf.edu/DistanceLearning/Index.aspx#Degrees
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University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN
Description:
The Satellite Theological Education Program (STEP), from the University of Notre Dame's Institute for Church Life, offers quality theological education services to pastoral ministers and other adult Catholics from across the country via the internet. Courses can be taken as part of the MA in Theology degree. STEP also offers a Catholic Video Lecture series on CD featuring prominent theologians from across the country, ideal for personal enrichment or study groups.
Accredited By:
ATS; Regional Accreditation by NCACS
Types of Programs:
MA degree, certificate program, continuing education / enrichment
Distance Learning:
Via internet, personal computer
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://step.nd.edu
Top
 
Ursuline College, Pepper Pike, OH
Description:
One online graduate course which is part of the MA in Ministry Degree
Accredited By:
Regional Accreditation by NCA
Types of Programs:
Continuing Education/Enrichment (graduate level)
Distance Learning:
Via internet
Classes Offered in The Following Language(s): English
Website: http://www.ursuline.edu/academics/graduate/ministry/
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