University of Dallas Neuhoff Institute for Ministry & Evangelization recently lowered the cost of graduate program tuition by nearly 20% in an effort to make theological education for transformative service more accessible to all who are called to deepen their formation for ministry. Additionally, scholarship assistance for tuition is offered through the Archdiocese of Seattle Christifideles Certification Program. 

Each graduate program offered by the University of Dallas Neuhoff Institute for Ministry & Evangelization will prepare you to make a transformative impact in the milieu in which the Lord is calling you to serve. Our three masters degrees are united by a core curriculum for a broad and deep theological foundation. Complementing this core curriculum, each degree is distinguished by a series of elective and program-specific courses which allow for the practical application of theological knowledge to specific ministerial roles and settings. 

A master's degree in catechetical ministry prepares you to teach the faith, focusing on the principles of religious education.

A master's degree in pastoral ministry prepares you to serve the diverse pastoral needs of the church, as a campus minister, youth minister, church manager or healthcare minister.

A master's degree in theological studies with a concentration in Catholic secondary school teaching  enables you to grow spiritually through rigorous and critical study of Sacred Scripture and church teaching. The concentration in Catholic secondary school teaching dynamically equips students to pass on the treasure of our faith to the next generation. 

We're happy to guide you through the process of selecting the right program for you. Contact the University of Dallas Neuhoff Institute for Ministry & Evangelization for more information.

Prospective Christifideles Certification Program participants should submit an application to their graduate program of interest before the start of the fall, spring or summer semester, according to the University of Dallas academic calendar deadlines. Rolling admissions.

The Christifideles Certification Program combines graduate education in theology and ministry with formation and Archdiocesan Certification for lay ecclesial ministers.

The Archdiocese of Seattle is looking for leaders called to serve God’s people as competent, effective, and certified ministers for Youth & Young Adults, Faith Formation, RCIA, Chaplaincy, Outreach, Administration, Detention Ministry, Sacramental Preparation, Liturgy, and other ministries.

Christifideles is based on the principles and guidelines of the USCCB document, Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord, for the formation of Lay Ecclesial Ministers.

It is a program that comprises:

• Graduate formation at one of the Archdiocesan-approved Schools of Theology: Seattle University, University of Portland, and University of Dallas (scholarships awarded based on financial need)
• Formation retreats & spiritual direction
• Evenings of Reflection – opportunities to learn more about archdiocesan priorities, programs, and staff
• Annual luncheons with Archbishop Sartain

For more information, visit the Archdiocese of Seattle online. 

1. Prospective Christifideles Certification participants should contact Helen Oesterle at the Archdiocese of Seattle to express their interest in the Christifideles Certification Program.
2. Prayerfully discern your graduate formation options. We're happy to guide you through the various program offerings at the University of Dallas Neuhoff Institute for Ministry & Evangelization. Contact us.
3. Apply to your graduate program of interest at the University of Dallas Neuhoff Institute for Ministry & Evangelization. 
4. Apply to the Christifideles Certification Program. You must be accepted in a graduate ministry program in order to be considered for admission to the Christifideles Certification Program. Applications are accepted in the Fall of each year. The Christifideles application process involves submitting an application and vocational biography, letters of recommendation, and a personal interview. Archbishop Sartain makes the final decision in the Spring with the program starting that Fall. Information meetings are offered throughout the Archdiocese every year.