Program Description

Learning Contract

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STEP Certificates of Catholic Theology Program

 

The STEP Certificates of Catholic Theology allow an individual student to pursue a more focused study of a particular theological discipline.  The program includes directed readings from the selected subject area, individual tutorial, and will require a final synthetic paper based upon an agreed upon thesis.

Purpose: This program has two goals in mind:

1. To allow STEP students to further their learning on a more individualized basis in topical areas such as Scripture, Doctrine, Liturgy, and Ethics.
2. To assist STEP students in meeting Certification Standards criteria, either for the diaconate or lay ecclesial ministry, in accordance with the specified theological requirements of National Standards.

Areas of Concentration: Comprehensive Certificates are available in the following areas:

1. Doctrine
2. Scripture
3. Liturgy
4. Ethics and Morality
5. Church History

Outline:

1. Individuals desiring to receive a comprehensive Certificate for a specific theological topical area inform STEP of their interest.
2. STEP verifies that the prerequisite courses for the desired area of concentration have been completed.
3. An individual Learning Contract is completed and approved by STEP.
4. A STEP Mentor will be assigned to the individual, to guide them through and evaluate successful completion of the Learning Contract.
5. Upon completion of the Learning Contract, including the required final paper, the individual is issued the Certificate from STEP.

Prerequisites: Each area of concentration has prerequisite STEP courses that must be completed as part of pursuing the area Certificate. Exceptions can be made on a case by case basis for equivalent courses taken through other institutions as approved by the Director of STEP.

Learning Contract: The Learning Contract will typically begin September 1st and conclude no later than June 1st of the following year. The deadline for registering is October 15th.

The Learning Contract includes the following elements:

1. Verification by STEP that prerequisite courses have been completed.
2. Statement of intent by the individual, that should include:
1. Reasons for pursuing the Certificate (specifically note any diocesan formation programs or certifications that the Certificate is intended to satisfy).
2. Personal statement of goals and interests for this area of study.
3. Specific course of study to complete the Certificate, that will include:
1. Required readings.
2. Outline of synchronous tutorial sessions, e.g. phone calls, chat sessions.
3. Written requirements (e.g. papers, Discussions postings).

 

Enrollment for 2011-2012 academic year is full.
Registration for the 2012-2013 academic year will open in January 2012.