Master of Arts in Religious Education (M.A.)
Now in its fortieth year, the Institute of Pastoral Studies (IPS) educates spiritual leaders for church and community. The M.A. in Religious Education prepares individuals to administer religious education programs or teach religion in schools and parishes. Participants become well-grounded in articulating the life of faith to all age groups and in a variety of contexts.
Strategies for effective teaching, learning and curriculum design will be highlighted. Prayer, service projects and community building will also be explored as vital elements of religious education. Participants also develop a deep understanding of scripture, both Old and New Testaments, fundamental theology, sacraments and liturgy, as well as morality and ethics.
Students in the program are typically working or intend to work as directors and coordinators of religious education in Catholic and Protestant parishes or churches; as teachers of religious education in parishes and churches; or as teachers of religion in religiously-based grammar schools and high schools.
