The Licentiate in Religious Sciences specializing in Pastoral Education aims to provide integral and profound training to those who intend to dedicate themselves to pastoral ministry as educators in religious communities or seminaries. Students will not only acquire theoretical knowledge in theological, philosophical, and pastoral subjects but will also be oriented to develop a critical and innovative vision that is fundamental for pastoral service and the education of future generations of believers.

The course is aimed at clergy, religious, and consecrated persons who aspire to dedicate part of their pastoral ministry to the training and spiritual accompaniment of religious communities or future ministers of the Church.

The second cycle’s specific objective is the development of a personal theological synthesis in the chosen specialization, acquiring adequate training in the area of study, learning the scientific method of research, and preparing for teaching. Courses, seminars, personal tutoring, and other faculty activities assist the student in preparing this synthesis. The Licentiate thesis is the subject of a special personal study and must be based on a topic in the chosen area of study.

The two-year program is divided into the following areas:

• Foundations of Theology and Pastoral Theology.
• Spiritual Theology and Spiritual Education
• Liturgy and Sacramental Pastoral Ministry
• Pastoral Psychology and Cure of Souls
• Catechesis and Christian Education

Students develop a broad, deep, and systematic knowledge of pastoral theology, as well as specific skills in the areas of spiritual, liturgical, catechetical training, and the cure of souls. Drawing from the sources of Christian tradition and reaching out to contemporary pastoral challenges, students will be prepared to serve religious communities with competence and sensitivity and to lead the spiritual growth and integral formation of the faithful.

To be eligible for admission to the second cycle, students must have completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Sciences from a Higher Institute of Religious Sciences. Alternatively, those who have completed a six-year Philosophy and Theology program or obtained a Magisterium or Diploma in Religious Sciences (4 years, under the old system) may be considered for admission at the discretion of the Institute’s Director.

Classes are taught in Italian. Foreign students must present a valid certificate of proficiency in the Italian language at the time of enrollment.

Thursdays: 2:30 – 6:40 p.m.; Fridays: 2:30 – 6:40 p.m.; Saturdays: 8:45 – 3:30 p.m. (all); 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (second year)