Program Overview

Spring Hill College’s master of pastoral studies is designed for a broad range of students — from those wishing to develop deeper biblical understanding to those called to be on the pastoral staff. The program is designed to develop the student’s theological and ministerial competency through academic study, reflection on ministerial practice, and the student’s personal experiences as a person of faith. 

MPS Comprehensive Experience:

The MPS comprehensive experience consists of a final pastoral Project and paper (normally done in conjunction with a Ministry Practicum (MIN 590).  Graduating students will present their final Pastoral Project and Paper at their Comprehensive (3rd) Graduate Seminar.  There are no written comprehensives for MPS students.

Delivery:

Online, On Campus

Credits:

33 Credits

Time To Degree:

2 Years

Faculty Count:

7

Program Goals

Designed primarily for adult students who are working full-time in their professions or homes, the MPS program builds the foundation of critical tools of analysis, an understanding of practical theology and solid theological reflection which culminates in the application of theological understanding in ministry. Besides academic study, the students will be involved in ministerial internships.

Career Outlook

This program prepares graduates to become spiritual leaders in their communities, churches, and families. This graduate pastoral studies program has several opportunities to expand students’ ministerial resume and portfolio so they’ll be real world ready upon graduation.

Testimonial

“The Graduate Theology program at Spring Hill College has challenged and encouraged me in ways I did not expect. I knew going back to school would be tough with a family and full-time job, but I had not expected it to be so enlivening. Professors, assignments, and most often classmates have stretched and deepened my understanding of Christ’s love and inspired me to consider new ways we can live that love out alongside one another.” — Lydia Johnson

Faculty

View Department Page

Graduate theology studies at Spring Hill College is built on over 30 years of adult theological formation in the Southeast. Deeply rooted in Catholic tradition with an ecumenical vision that enters into dialogue with the many frontiers of the 21st century.

  • Christopher Viscardi

    Professor; Division Chair; Department Chair, Philosophy and Theology

  • Nelida Naveros-Cordova

    Assistant Professor Theology, Graduate Program Director

  • John Switzer

    Professor Emeritus – Adjunct

  • Stephen Wilson

    Associate Professor

  • Matthew Bagot

    Associate Professor

  • George Gilmore

    Professor

Why SHC?

  • At Spring Hill College, we’re making our mark – With our small class sizes and affordable tuition, Spring Hill College is uniquely qualified to provide a high quality education to our students. Our Jesuit, Catholic college education is renowned as a well-rounded higher education approach, with an emphasis on empowering students with a passion for knowledge and personal growth. With our recent tuition cut, Spring Hill College is one of the most affordable private colleges in the country.
  • We’re curious and inspired – Forbes Magazine has ranked Spring Hill College as one of the top ten best colleges for return on investment (ROI). In our class of 2019, 99.5% of graduates attained placement six months after graduation through employment, graduate/professional school, internship or service.
  • We’re doers – Our students contribute 24,000 hours on average to the local community through the Foley Center each year. 100% of the 2020 graduates that applied to medical school were accepted. Spring Hill College has a 100% certification rate and a 92% placement rate with our Education program over the last five years.

The MTS, MPS and Certificate in Pastoral Ministry programs are open to all applicants who have earned a bachelor’s degree, in any field, with a grade point average of at least 2.5 on the 4.0 scale. Required prerequisite hours in theology or religion (6 hours) for the MTS or MPS may be completed after acceptance to the program.

SHC offers a significantly reduced tuition rate of $345 an hour for students enrolled in our Graduate Programs of Theology & Ministry.  Limited assistance is also available through scholarships and financial aid. Contact the department for more info.

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