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
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 Pastoral Studies MA at Loyola
The Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (MAPS) program at Loyola’s Institute of Pastoral Studies (IPS) offers a broad preparation for ministerial service and the tools necessary to engage critically and constructively in the challenges and opportunities of our contemporary lives.
Embracing four areas of development — human, spiritual, intellectual, and ministerial — the MAPS degree guides you in the development of your own pastoral identity through an integrated exploration of theology and pastoral practice and prepares you for ministerial service in a variety of contexts.
Program Structure
In the master's degree, you can choose to study under the general MAPS program or focus your studies in one of four areas of concentration: church management, digital communication, health care chaplaincy, and religious education. The IPS program also offers a bilingual (Spanish) option offered entirely online.
- Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (General)
- Church Management Concentration
- Digital Communication Concentration
- Healthcare Chaplaincy Concentration
- Religious Education Concentration
- Maestría de Artes en Estudios Pastorales Bilingüe (Español)
A traditional curriculum designed to provide a solid first-degree experience in education for ministry, including courses in scripture, pastoral theology, and ministerial skills.
Learn MoreDevelops the skills contemporary parish leaders and pastoral ministers need in budgeting, project management, human resources, and organizational development and change.
Learn MoreFocuses on communication skills and best practices for using digital media to reach a wider audience through social media, the web, and video in addition to conventional print media.
Learn MorePrepares degree students to be certified as a Board Certified Chaplain (BCC) with The National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC).
Learn MoreDevelops the skills needed to engage, catechize, and educate in today's culturally, generationally, and theologically diverse church.
Learn MoreDisponible exclusivamente en línea, el programa prepara estudiantes para el servicio ministerial en comunidades biculturales y bilingües (diócesis, parroquias, escuelas, hospitales, y otras organizaciones comunitarias), tanto a nivel local como internacional.
Learn MoreCourses are available online or in person at Loyola's downtown Chicago campus conveniently located off the Red Line. Some courses are also available in the summer through the IPS Rome, Italy program.
Why Choose Loyola for Your Pastoral Studies Master’s?
- A tradition of scholarship and excellence
- Online accessibility with the same high-quality curriculum
- Flexible options
- Education for ministry
- Focus your degree through concentrations
- Option for a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree
Founded in 1964, IPS is one of the first and most prestigious education-for-ministry programs in the nation.
The IPS master’s in pastoral studies is one of the few university-based programs that offers an online curriculum identical to the on-campus courses.
While you can complete the entire 36-hour master's degree program completely online, you have the option to take on-campus courses in Chicago, if you choose. On-campus courses are offered daytime and evenings during the week, on weekends, and through intensive courses during the summer. These courses are also available if you are a non-degree-seeking student.
The structured curriculum is designed to provide a solid first-degree experience in education for ministry and includes courses in scripture, pastoral theology, and ministerial skills.
Concentration options allow you to focus your skill set in areas that interest you most, including church management, communication, healthcare ministry, and religious education.
The MA in Pastoral Studies is the basis for the MDiv degree. At any point during your program or on completion of the degree, you may apply for the MDiv degree. All the Pastoral Studies MA courses will count toward the MDiv degree.
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 Pastoral Studies MA program.
Faculty and StaffPastoral Studies: Career Connections
A pastoral studies master’s degree prepares you for service and leadership in many faith-based or community services positions. Pastoral studies graduates serve in diocesan and parish jobs, schools, hospitals and healthcare organizations, nursing homes, prisons and correctional facilities, humanitarian aid organizations, government, and a variety of community human services organizations.
Specific job options include:
- Pastor or minister
- Administrative church management
- Youth services manager
- Executive positions in human services nonprofits and NGOs
- Healthcare facility chaplain
- Teaching and other leadership positions in education
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 specific careers and fields that interest you.
Curriculum and Program Outcomes
While courses for the Pastoral Studies 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 Pastoral Studies MA learning outcomes, showcasing the commitment to specific skills and growth graduates can expect to achieve following completion of the program.
2024-2025 Catalog
- Pastoral Studies MA
- Pastoral Studies: Church Management MA
- Pastoral Studies: Digital Communication MA
- Pastoral Studies: Health Care Chaplaincy MA
- Pastoral Studies: Religious Education 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 recent 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pastoral Studies MA | 36 | $850.00 | $30600.00 |
| Pastoral Studies: Church Management MA | 36 | $850.00 | $30600.00 |
| Pastoral Studies: Digital Communication MA | 36 | $850.00 | $30600.00 |
| Pastoral Studies: Health Care Chaplaincy MA | 36 | $850.00 | $30600.00 |
| Pastoral Studies: Religious Education MA | 36 | $850.00 | $30600.00 |
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.
- Pastoral Studies MA
- Pastoral Studies: Church Management MA
- Pastoral Studies: Digital Communication MA
- Pastoral Studies: Health Care Chaplaincy MA
- Pastoral Studies: Religious Education MA
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Pastoral Studies 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 Pastoral Studies 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 minsterial 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 Pastoral Studies: Church Management 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 Pastoral Studies: Church Management 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 minsterial 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 Pastoral Studies: Digital Communication 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 Pastoral Studies: Digital Communication 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 minsterial 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 Pastoral Studies: Health Care Chaplaincy 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 Pastoral Studies: Health Care Chaplaincy 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 minsterial 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 Pastoral Studies: Religious Education 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 Pastoral Studies: Religious Education 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 minsterial 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
Official transcripts are those that are sent directly by the college/university to Loyola University Chicago. Transcripts 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.
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.
Please visit our International Applicant Requirements page for specific information regarding the application process for international students.
Start Your Application
Applying online to the Pastoral Studies MA program is a swift, uncomplicated, and cost-free process. After submission, you can proceed to send and upload any additional requirements.
APPLY TODAY