Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry
Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry program at the University of the Incarnate Word prepares leaders for contemporary ecclesial ministries, including parish ministry, religious education, and youth ministry. The 36-credit hour program emphasizes scripture, theology, and ministry, and culminates in a supervised Pastoral Project. Graduates are equipped to articulate a vision of Catholic mission, shape ministry settings, and lead catechetical programs.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Program Overview:
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Pastoral Ministry graduate program at the University of the Incarnate Word is crafted to prepare leaders in contemporary ecclesial ministries, specifically in Catholic parish ministries, religious education, spirituality and spiritual development, youth ministry and catechetical leadership, or as a mission leader in Catholic healthcare or education.
Objectives:
- To enable students to describe and integrate into ministerial practice a theology of revelation as embodied in scripture, tradition and creation, as well as a Catholic theology of God, church, sacraments and ethics.
- To foster sound practices of compassionate pastoral care appropriate to their skill levels and training.
Program Description:
The 36-credit hour degree plan is structured around three core areas of study: scripture, theology (historical, sacramental, liturgical, moral and ecclesial aspects) and ministry. The program typically culminates with an individually designed supervised Pastoral Project. Students have the flexibility to incorporate a second field into their degree plan through other UIW graduate departments, particularly the Dreeben School of Education or the School of Osteopathic Medicine.
Outline:
Program Content and Structure:
The M.A. in Pastoral Ministry program consists of the following core courses:
- Scripture
- Theology (historical, sacramental, liturgical, moral and ecclesial aspects)
Careers:
Potential Career Paths and Opportunities:
The M.A. in Pastoral Ministry program prepares graduates for leadership roles in various ecclesial ministries, including:
- Catholic parish ministry
- Religious education
- Spirituality and spiritual development
- Youth ministry
- Catechetical leadership
- Mission leadership in Catholic healthcare or education
Outcomes:
Successful completion of the program enables graduates to:
- Articulate a vision of Catholic mission appropriate to their ministry setting.
- Shape a vision for their ministry setting in working for the mission.
- Identify the theological, pastoral and socio-cultural principles and values underlying the Christian community.
- Shape a vision for a parish or other faith community seeking to live out the Gospel together.
- Oversee initial and ongoing formation for catechists.
- Shape and lead catechetical programs appropriate to the age, culture and other characteristics of those participating.
University of The Incarnate Word
Overview:
University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) is a private Catholic university located in San Antonio, Texas. Founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, UIW is the largest Catholic university in Texas and is known for its commitment to serving the community and providing a transformative educational experience.
Services Offered:
UIW offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Advising, tutoring, writing and learning center, career services, testing services, TRiO program, and first-generation student support.Student Life:
Residence life, student life activities, student advocacy, wellness and sports programs, counseling, and health services.Financial Aid:
Aid and award process, cost estimation, calculators, scholarship resources, work study, loan assistance, forms, tuition and fees information, verification process, consumer information, and FAQs.Military and Veterans Center:
Admissions, support services, and resources for military personnel and veterans.International Student and Scholar Services:
Support and resources for international students.School of Professional Studies (SPS):
Admissions and student success services.Health Professions Student Services:
Specific services for students in the Feik School of Pharmacy, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rosenberg School of Optometry, and School of Rehabilitation Sciences.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UIW offers a vibrant campus life with a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities. Students can participate in athletics, intramural sports, music and arts programs, community service initiatives, and social events. The university also has a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UIW offers over 100 undergraduate majors, minors, and concentrations, and over 20 graduate and doctoral programs.Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
UIW is a Hispanic Serving Institution and ranks No. 1 in the nation among faith-based universities graduating Hispanic students with bachelor’s degrees.Faith-Based Education:
UIW provides a Catholic educational experience that emphasizes values, ethics, and service to others.Excellent Faculty:
UIW has a dedicated faculty committed to student success and providing a high-quality education.Strong Alumni Network:
UIW has a large and active alumni network that provides support and opportunities for students.Academic Programs:
UIW has 11 schools and colleges, including five health professions schools:
College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences
Dreeben School of Education
Feik School of Pharmacy
H-E-B School of Business and Administration
Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions
Rosenberg School of Optometry
School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering
School of Media and Design
School of Osteopathic Medicine
School of Rehabilitation Sciences
School of Professional Studies
Other:
UIW is a leader in transformational education and inspires students to ignite change. The university is also recognized for its commitment to social mobility and has been named a Best College by U.S. News & World Report.
