The Licentiate in Spiritual Theology is a second-cycle academic program that offers advanced training in Christian spiritual life, integrating biblical, historical, theological, and pastoral aspects. The program emphasizes the study of the great spiritual traditions of the Church, through the reading and study of the great masters and the main schools of spirituality. The approach adopted, inspired by the famous expression of Bernard of Chartres, gigantium humeris insidentes (“standing on the shoulders of giants”), fosters theological reflection on spiritual life, placing it within the mystery of Christ and the Church and in the perspective of the New Evangelization.

Educational Objectives

The Licentiate in Spiritual Theology aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of Christian spirituality, integrating biblical, theological, historical, and pastoral aspects. The program aims to develop a theological reflection on the interior life, putting the spiritual tradition of the Church in dialogue with contemporary challenges.

Through courses, seminars, and research activities, students acquire methodological tools for the analysis and transmission of spiritual knowledge. Particular attention is paid to the study of Sacred Scripture, Christian mysticism, the spirituality of the saints, and the great schools of spiritual life. The program prepares graduates to carry out roles of spiritual formation and accompaniment, teaching in academic and pastoral settings, as well as to contribute to theological reflection on Christian life.

The final dissertation represents a central moment of the program, allowing students to delve into specific themes of spiritual theology and to develop a personal synthesis that integrates Christian experience and academic research.

Structure

The two-year program is divided into several areas of in-depth study: 1. Biblical and theological foundations of Christian spirituality, 2. History of Christian spirituality and its great schools, 3. Theology of spiritual life and dynamics of inner growth, 4. Spiritual direction and vocational discernment, 5. Liturgical and sacramental spirituality.

The curriculum includes a total of 120 ECTS, divided between core courses, characterizing courses, seminars, integrative activities, the licentiate dissertation, and final exams. Students can choose specific seminars to deepen their area of interest, with a high degree of personalization of the educational path.

Admission Requirements

Access to the Licentiate requires a Bachelor of Theology or the completion of a six-year philosophical-theological program at a Major Seminary or an approved Higher Institute.

Sufficient knowledge of the Italian language and the ability to read academic texts in at least two modern languages (English, French, Spanish, German, or Portuguese) is required. Furthermore, for the comprehension of patristic, medieval, and liturgical texts, it is necessary to demonstrate a basic competence in Latin and Biblical Greek.

Final Exams

The final exam consists of a three-hour written test, which focuses on the fundamental themes of spiritual theology, and a 30-minute oral test, during which the student presents a critical exposition on two works chosen independently during the study path. The Licentiate dissertation, written under the guidance of a professor, is a central element of the evaluation and must be submitted in paper and digital format according to the established deadlines.

The list of topics concerning the final oral exam of the Licentiate in Spiritual Theology is available at this link.

Application Procedure

• Fill out the contact form by clicking on the button below.
• Prepare the required documents, including:
  • Required qualifications;
  • Letter of presentation from the Bishop (if applicable);
  • Passport photo, copy of passport, and curriculum vitae.
• Upload the documentation in the online admission form.
• Await confirmation and follow the instructions to complete the registration.
• N.B: For non-EU students a student Visa is needed. More details here.

For more information write to info.teologia@upra.org