The Certificate in Pastoral Ministry program prepares students interested in Church ministry with a professional formation and credential.

This program prepares students for service in Catholic education, youth ministry, and with vulnerable populations (e.g., the poor and the elderly).  

The four-course certificate program includes classes in evangelization, pastoral ministry, and a student’s particular area of interest. Students also complete a supervised internship with an opportunity to connect theological reflection and pastoral experience.   

Students receive a certificate that meets the guidelines of dioceses throughout the nation and aids them in their career advancement. They are also honored at the Senior Awards Banquet at the School of Theology and Religious Studies.  

To be eligible, a student must be a Theology and Religious Studies major or minor. To apply, please download and fill out an application for the program. Applications should be returned to the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies in the School of Theology and Religious Studies by the end of sophomore year. 

Program Requirements

• Prerequisite: TRS 201 Faith Seeking Understanding
• TRS 355 The Mission of the Contemporary Catholic
• TRS 357 Foundations for Catechesis
  or
  TRS 358 Ministry with Vulnerable Populations
  or
  TRS 359 Teenagers: The Church Today and Tomorrow (for those specifically preparing for Youth Ministry)
• TRS 453 The Practice of Pastoral Ministry
• TRS 495 Internship in Pastoral Ministry/Theological Reflection