Chaplaincy Studies & Pastoral Work

The MA in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work aims to develop graduates who:

• Understand, and are able to apply knowledge from theological, and educational disciplines to the work of Chaplaincy and Pastoral Work

• Apply current thinking concerning pastoral work, faith formation, spiritual accompaniment, inter-religious dialogue and interculturalism in different pastoral contexts

• Exhibit the personal, professional and spiritual skills and sensibilities necessary to work as a chaplain/pastoral worker and as a member of a pastoral team.

• Manifest the ability to plan, execute and report on a research project of relevance to the work of a chaplain/pastoral worker

• Engage sensitively in faith formation and faith development initiatives in an invitational and inclusive manner which is appropriate to the characteristic spirit of the pastoral setting and to the cultural and religious diversity present in the community

• Develop Pastoral Counselling and Spiritual Accompaniment skills that are appropriate to the work of the chaplain/pastoral worker in the particular context

• Exhibit readiness to assume the role and responsibilities of a chaplain/pastoral worker

• Demonstrate the ability to manage their own work as a chaplain/pastoral worker and to integrate this with the work of others in order to provide an effective pastoral presence

• Work collaboratively with others in order to enhance the pastoral, religious, spiritual and moral dimensions of the designated community

• Exhibit competence as a 'Reflective Practitioner' and openness to continuing professional development

• Exhibit a depth awareness of contemporary culture

• Will be able to respond creatively, appropriately and sensitively to the 'moments' in people's lives in which there is an openness to the invitation to full human development and religious, moral and spiritual awakening.

To view the current course structure please visit the Provider's website.

Requirements
The general criteria for entry to this taught postgraduate programme is :
• An honours primary degree (any discipline) or equivalent
• 60 ECTS credits in Theology
• Applicants must have secured a suitable placement
• Applicants must submit Letters of reference (Academic OR Professional).
• Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered (Irish / EU applicants only)
• International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language. More information about DCU's English language requirements can be found here.
• Applicants will be required to undertake an interview before any offer is issued for this programme.

Note: All candidates who are accepted to this programme must undergo Garda Vetting. All offers will be conditional until successful completion of the Garda Vetting process.

Application Deadlines
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the programme is full or until:

• Closing date for non EU applicants is 1st July 2023.
• Closing date for EU applicants is 31st July 2023.

Note applicants who require a study visa for the purposes of studying at DCU, are advised to apply as early as possible.

Queries
Queries from EU applicants should be directed to postgraduateadmissions@dcu.ie

Queries from non EU applicants should be directed to internationalapplications@dcu.ie

To apply for this programme:

• All Applicants must apply through DCU's Student Application Portal.

• Provide a personal statement of not more than 300 words outlining the journey that has led you to apply to this programme.

• Provide confirmation that you have secured a suitable placement (18 hours per week for 12 weeks in both semesters (432 hours)). Placement Form for DC980 (Full Time) click here Placement Form for DC981 (Part Time) click here to be fully completed and uploaded to DCU's Student Application Portal.

• Provide an academic reference attesting to your suitability for this Postgraduate study. Reference form DC980 (Full Time) click here Reference form DC981 (Part Time) click here to be fully completed and uploaded to DCU's Student Application Portal.

• Provide a Pastoral reference attesting to your suitability to work with vulnerable persons.

•If applicable, evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements.

Please see link http://www.dcu.ie/registry/english.shtml

Please note if you are a non EU student and require a study visa, you are not eligible to apply for part-time programmes as study visas are only granted for full-time programmes.

DC980: Full Time 1 Year
DC981: Part Time 2 Years

C980: one year full time programme, Monday evenings and Tuesday lectures and a placement of 18-20 hours per week of the academic year.
DC 981; two year part time programme, Monday evening lectures and a placement of 6 hours per week of the academic year.

Both programmes require attendance on 8 Saturdays during the academic year.

The programme commences in September 2022.

Careers
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work are currently employed as chaplains in the post–primary school and university sector, in parishes, prisons and community facilities.