Enrollment in religious studies is rising, and to make earning a degree in this field more accessible to students, schools are launching degree programs available via online education. These opportunities benefit future degree holders by providing them with an education that is both affordable and flexible.
The Loyola University Institute of Ministry located in New Orleans has announced that it will launch online masters degree and certificate programs in pastoral studies and religious education, with enrollment starting this fall. Students will earn an education that has a theological foundation and will be able to choose from several specializations, including youth ministry, Hispanic ministry, spirituality, religion, ecology as well as parish life and administration.
Tom Ryan, the ministry school's director, stated that "these are professionally-oriented graduate programs in which students form online learning communities." He added that "they develop theological and ministerial competencies through the integration of academic study with theological reflection on their ministerial practice and experience as people of faith."
Graduates of these types degree programs will be certified to spiritually guide and assist members of their religion as well as conduct worship and perform other spiritual functions associated with beliefs and practices of religious faith or denomination, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
