Masters
Part-Time or Full-Time
Fall, Spring, Summer
On-Campus, Online
Masters
Part-Time or Full-Time
Fall, Spring, Summer
On-Campus, Online
Masters
Part-Time or Full-Time
Fall, Spring, Summer
On-Campus, Online
About the Christian Spirituality MA at Loyola
The Master of Arts in Christian Spirituality program at Loyola's Institute of Pastoral Studies (IPS) prepares students to meet the personal and societal challenges of our time through meaningful, holistic living and by deepening their knowledge of God and self.
The program draws on the wisdom of the Ignatian tradition, joins contemplation with action, and fosters an approach to spirituality and spiritual formation grounded in one's personal relationship with God.
Program Structure
The MA in Christian Spirituality is a 12-course, 36-credit hour degree program that can be completed by full-time students in two years, or in four to five years if taken on a part-time basis.
As a student in the program, you can choose the general MA in Christian Spirituality track or focus your studies with a concentration in Spiritual Direction.
The general track in the MA in Christian Spirituality program includes nine required core courses and two electives, which can be chosen from offerings within IPS or other through other schools and colleges at Loyola.
Learn MoreThe Spiritual Direction concentration includes 11 required core courses and is designed to empower students with the theoretical and practical skills to provide spiritual direction to others seeking to deepen their relationship with God.
The MA in Christian Spirituality can be pursued full-time or part-time. Classes are held weekday evenings at Loyola's Water Tower Campus, which is conveniently located off the Red Line in the heart of Chicago, and the majority of the courses are also offered online.
Why Choose Loyola for Your MA in Christian Spirituality?
- An integrated approach to theory and practice
- A concentration in Spiritual Direction for a life of service
- An opportunity to take your studies to Rome
- An added depth of training in Ignatius spirituality
- A long history of academic excellence and accomplishment
- A flexible, convenient, accelerated MA experience
The program blends contemplation with action in its Ignatian approach to spirituality and spiritual formation, grounded in a personal relationship with God and addressing the needs of our time.
The Spiritual Direction concentration prepares you with the knowledge and skills for the ongoing practice of accompanying others in their attempt to deepen their relationship with the divine.
As a student in the program you have the opportunity to take IPS summer courses offered in Rome, many of which fulfill curriculum requirements for the MA in Christian Spirituality program.
You have the option to train – through a 30-day or 30-week format – on how to direct and make use of the Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius of Loyola in spiritual direction.
Loyola’s IPS was founded in 1964 as one of the first pastoral academic institutes of its kind and has established a legacy of excellence recognized across the country.
The MA in Christian Spirituality can be completed in two years of full-time study. You can complete courses fully online, on campus, or through a hybrid model, depending on the format that works best for you.
Meet the Faculty
Loyola is proud to have talented and nationally-recognized scholar-teachers as part of our diverse community of exceptional faculty, students and staff. Loyola faculty are known for their commitment to teaching, the dissemination of knowledge through innovative and interdisciplinary scholarly research, and a commitment to social justice and cura personalis, or care for the whole person. Visit the Institute of Pastoral Studies faculty and staff directory to learn more about the teachers and mentors involved with the Christian Spirituality MA program.
Faculty and StaffMA in Christian Spirituality: Career Connections
As a graduate of the Christian Spirituality MA program you will be prepared for any number of professional paths that lead to meaningful and holistic living and ministry.
Because Loyola is a member of the Jesuit network of 27 colleges and universities nationwide, our graduates can access career advising services, resume and interviewing assistance, career fairs and events, and employment listings in our Career Services center, as well as at career centers at other U.S. Jesuit colleges and universities.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook is a good place to start exploring the job outlook and pay potential for clergy and other specific careers and fields that interest you.
Curriculum and Program Outcomes
While courses for the Christian Spirituality MA program may vary from semester to semester, Loyola’s extensive Academic Catalog will always house the official listing of courses, programs of study, academic policies, degree requirements, and specialization or concentration options.
Additionally, this resource will provide Christian Spirituality MA learning outcomes, showcasing the commitment to specific skills and growth graduates can expect to achieve following completion of the program.
Loyola University Chicago’s Institute for Pastoral Studies is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and is currently under a Warning pertaining to ATS Standards 2.6-7 on Educational Evaluation.
2024-2025 Catalog
- Christian Spirituality MA
- Christian Spirituality Online MA
- Christian Spirituality: Spiritual Direction MA
Costs, Scholarships, and Aid
Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your graduate and professional studies a reality. Our Cost & Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education.
If you are a current Loyola undergraduate or alum, you may be eligible for a Returning Rambler discount. Learn more and see if you qualify on our Returning Rambler Scholarship page.
Tuition and Costs
| Program | Credit Hours | Cost Per Credit Hour | Estimated Tuition and Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christian Spirituality MA | 36 | $885.00 | $31860.00 |
| Christian Spirituality Online MA | 36 | $885.00 | $31860.00 |
| Christian Spirituality: Spiritual Direction MA | 36 | $885.00 | $31860.00 |
For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.
Institute of Pastoral Studies Financial Aid & Scholarships
More information about financial aid opportunities can be found on the Institute of Pastoral Studies Financial Aid page.
Appointments and Events
Whether you’re just beginning your search, in the midst of the application process, or eager to explore our graduate and professional programs, our admissions staff is here to assist you every step of the way.
Schedule an AppointmentThe Institute of Pastoral Studies offers graduate open houses, information sessions, individual appointments, open Zoom and text sessions, and a multitude of other ways to get to know us better.
View all EventsVisit and Connect With Us
With our visit opportunities, you can tour our beautiful Chicago campuses and learn more about Loyola's ties to one of the most prestigious cities in the world.
Application Process
This program has multiple versions you can apply to. Find specific information about the application process for each program below.
- Christian Spirituality MA
- Christian Spirituality Online MA
- Christian Spirituality: Spiritual Direction MA
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Christian Spirituality MA are listed below:
Fall, Spring, & Summer
Rolling admission
Recommended Deadlines
Fall: July 15
Spring: December 10
Summer: April 15
Final admission is 10 days before the start of classes
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Christian Spirituality MA include:
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
2 Letters of Recommendation
3.0 Minimum GPA
Statement of Purpose
Statement of Purpose Details
Please submit a 1,500-word essay describing your personal, educational, professional, and ministerial background and how these have prepared you for the specific MA or Certificate program for which you have applied. In your essay, also address the following:
Prior undergraduate or graduate study in theology or philosophy, if any
The ways in which your professional life and any volunteer service have emphasized spiritually, community and social justice
A theological book(s) that has helped to shape your understanding of your proposed vocation and course of study
Your vision of ministry, your strengths relative to this vocation, significant influences on your faith life (including ministerial mentors or role models), and the professional context in which you see yourself working upon completion of your program
Why you are choosing to pursue this degree at Loyola's IPS
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Christian Spirituality Online MA are listed below:
Fall, Spring, & Summer
Rolling admission
Recommended Deadlines
Fall: July 15
Spring: December 10
Summer: April 15
Final admission is 10 days before the start of classes
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Christian Spirituality Online MA include:
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
2 Letters of Recommendation
3.0 Minimum GPA
Statement of Purpose
Statement of Purpose Details
Please submit a 1,500-word essay describing your personal, educational, professional, and ministerial background and how these have prepared you for the specific MA or Certificate program for which you have applied. In your essay, also address the following:
Prior undergraduate or graduate study in theology or philosophy, if any
The ways in which your professional life and any volunteer service have emphasized spiritually, community and social justice
A theological book(s) that has helped to shape your understanding of your proposed vocation and course of study
Your vision of ministry, your strengths relative to this vocation, significant influences on your faith life (including ministerial mentors or role models), and the professional context in which you see yourself working upon completion of your program
Why you are choosing to pursue this degree at Loyola's IPS
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Christian Spirituality: Spiritual Direction MA are listed below:
Fall, Spring, & Summer
Rolling admission
Recommended Deadlines
Fall: July 15
Spring: December 10
Summer: April 15
Final admission is 10 days before the start of classes
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Christian Spirituality: Spiritual Direction MA include:
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
2 Letters of Recommendation
3.0 Minimum GPA
Statement of Purpose
Statement of Purpose Details
Please submit a 1,500-word essay describing your personal, educational, professional, and ministerial background and how these have prepared you for the specific MA or Certificate program for which you have applied. In your essay, also address the following:
Prior undergraduate or graduate study in theology or philosophy, if any
The ways in which your professional life and any volunteer service have emphasized spiritually, community and social justice
A theological book(s) that has helped to shape your understanding of your proposed vocation and course of study
Your vision of ministry, your strengths relative to this vocation, significant influences on your faith life (including ministerial mentors or role models), and the professional context in which you see yourself working upon completion of your program
Why you are choosing to pursue this degree at Loyola's IPS
Official Documents
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all institutions attended. Official transcripts are those that are sent directly by the college/university to Loyola University Chicago. Transcripts (with U.S. educational credentials) sent by the student to Loyola are considered unofficial documents, and while they may be utilized for initial review of your application, official transcripts are still required. Official documents should be sent by the institution to gradapp@luc.edu. Official documents should be sent by the institution to gradapp@luc.edu.
International Applicant Requirements
An official English language proficiency exam is required for international applicants whose native language is not English. If you have non-U.S. educational credentials, you are required to submit an official transcript evaluation. The transcript evaluation cannot be waived, and unofficial transcripts will not be accepted for international applicants.
Please visit our International Applicant Requirements page for specific information regarding the application process for international students.
Start Your Application
Applying online to the Christian Spirituality MA program is a swift, uncomplicated, and cost-free process. After submission, you can proceed to send and upload any additional requirements.
APPLY TODAY