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Pastoral Ministry B.A.

If you are interested in pursuing ministry in the Church, consider our Pastoral Ministry Concentration. (Link)  Beginning in Spring 2022, we will not accept new students into the B.A. Pastoral Ministry program. 

Scripturally and historically grounded, philosophically astute, rooted in pastoral practice and faithful to Catholic teaching.

Undergraduates desiring a future in professional ministry can pursue an undergraduate major in pastoral ministry through the University of DallasTheology Department. Combining a classical education in the great works of Western civilization with contemporary scholarship, the university seeks to educate its students so they may develop the intellectual and moral virtues, prepare themselves for life and work in a problematic and changing world and become leaders able to act responsibly for their own good and for the good of their family, community, country and church. 

Collaborate with Ministry Leaders

Benefit from partnerships with area parishes, dioceses and organizations in a year-long internship program, culminating in a capstone project.

Pastoral Theology

Develop and sharpen pastoral experience and skills through courses in catechesis, Scripture, administration and moral theology.

Study abroad in Rome

Immerse yourself in the geographical heart of the Catholic Church through our outstanding study abroad program.

Professional Portfolio

Showcase your ministerial knowledge and skills in a professional portfolio.

The Pastoral Ministry Undergraduate Major 

“The pastoral ministry program has helped me develop my own unique ministerial identity through recognizing and capitalizing on my strengths, challenging and improving my weaknesses, and supporting my passion for serving the Church.”

- Colleen Campbell, BA ‘15

The pastoral ministry major combines a deep engagement with the broad educational vision of liberal education with a passionate commitment to hands-on service of Christ and His Church. Its curriculum blends immersion in the great ideas and stories, pivotal thinkers and seminal images of Western culture with the best of contemporary Catholic thinking and practice regarding pastoral ministry.

Pastoral ministry majors enjoy the life-changing dialogue with art, literature, philosophy, politics, science and history fostered by UD’s demanding Core curriculum. At the same time, they interact with skilled and dedicated ministry professionals, study contemporary documents regarding specific ministries, and identify and sharpen skills for service through practical application. Students select a focus area in either catechetical ministry or youth and young adult ministry as they learn to effectively integrate the personal, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral dimensions of faith and life so as to respond fully to the Lord’s missionary mandate, “Go and make disciples of all nations…” (Mt. 28:19).

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