Learn and grow alongside experts in Theology and related disciplines, and experienced practitioners both on campus and in the field. Our programmes are carefully structured to provide integrated formation for the flourishing of students as whole persons and the development of their professional practice.

With the accumulation of experience, students will have the opportunity to learn and grow, not only in their own sense of identity, but also in trust and recognition of others – lay, religious, and ordained – in the service of the Christian mission, in their own context, according to the distinctiveness of their own vocation.

"By undertaking one of the Pastoral Programmes, candidates make a big commitment to their own personal and professional development for the sake of participating in the Christian mission. They are challenged to an ever-increasing self-understanding while also learning to listen deeply to others and interpret real situations in a self-conscious, critical, and disciplined manner. The programmes are structured in a holistic way to nurture the personal, spiritual, pastoral, and intellectual growth of each person, within the context of a vibrant, multi-cultural, collegial community. Men and women – lay, religious, and ordained – practicing ministry in community, school, and healthcare settings, enrich one another’s learning experience. For many, undertaking education for ministry is a significant moment on the journey of vocational discernment, and growth in ministerial identity. Within the Pastoral Programmes, such discernment becomes not only personal, but communal and truly ecclesial as well. Together with our Partners in Placement Education, we support the development of leaders for Catholic communities and faith-based activity within organisations and institutions. We inspire our students with Christian values and provide a supportive environment in which people can strengthen their faith, discern their ecclesial identity, and be receptive to God’s call to discipleship and ministry. If you choose one of the Pastoral Programmes, be prepared for a year (or more) of transformation, that will renew your heart and mind. You will bring your whole self to your programme of study; your own life experience will be a valuable textbook that you will bring into dialogue with other sources of theological insight. The learning and growth you will experience, along with the relationships you will make, will continue to shape you as a person and as a minister into the future. You will enrich each person you meet, as they will enrich you. Dr Aoife McGrath, Pastoral Theology & Programmes."

Dr Aoife McGrath, Pastoral Theology & Programmes