Theological Field Education

The goal of Theological Field Education is to foster pastoral and personal integration of theology, and develop knowledge, attitudes and skills to effectively minister in the Church. 

The objectives are to:

1. provide structured, supervised pastoral experiences that 1) teach and foster identification with and commitment to gospel mission; 2) develop personal identity as a minister; and 3) build a sense of structure for, and habit of accountability.
2. Introduce students to a range of settings and ministries, provide the knowledge for making referrals, encourage zeal to promote ministry by the lay apostolate in various settings, and promote insight and skill to supervise in ministry settings.
3. Teach, practice and encourage a habit of theological reflection.

Students matriculated in the program of Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry (MAPM) earn six credits in field education, usually in one placement. Students matriculated in the Master of Divinity (MDiv) I or II earn twelve credits in theological field education in two distinct placements. The first placement is typically in the second year of theological study, after completing 24-30 academic credits, and the second placement is during the equivalent of the third year of theological study.

Examples of ministries and placements include:

• Parish-based ministries
• Diocesan ministry
• Family Life ministry
• End of Life care
• Outreach, ministry to immigrants and migrants
• Service to persons in poverty
• Prison ministry
• Campus ministry
• Health care ministry