Answer the Call to Serve

At the University of Saint Mary of the Lake’s School of Parish Leadership and Evangelization, formation goes beyond academics — it prepares you to lead, serve, and evangelize in today’s Church with confidence, faith, and pastoral skill.

There are any number of universities where you can study theology and facts about the Church. But the University of Saint Mary of the Lake, founded in 1844, includes Mundelein Seminary, which means the formation of priests; and this makes all the difference. That’s because we will provide you with an integral formation that focuses on helping you grow spiritually, pastorally, intellectually, and in those human qualities critical for ministry. That’s the USML difference!

Whether you are discerning ministry, already serving in a parish, or seeking to deepen your theological foundation, our programs are designed to meet you where you are and help you grow into where God is calling you.

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Graduate Programs Rooted in Mission

Our graduate degrees provide rigorous theological education grounded in real-world ministry application. You’ll learn from experienced faculty who also form seminarians and Church leaders, ensuring your formation is both academically strong and pastorally relevant.

You will gain:

A deeper understanding of Scripture and Catholic theology
Practical leadership and evangelization skills
Confidence to serve in parishes, dioceses, schools, and ministries
Flexible options designed for working adults

Learn more about each of our graduate programs:

Doctor of Ministry

The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake (USML) is tailored for seasoned ministers holding a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or equivalent qualification. Positioned as a terminal professional degree distinct from a Ph.D., it emphasizes the refinement of practical skills and leadership acumen essential for effective ministry.

This degree allows you to bring your ministry into dialogue with the best insights from Scripture, Tradition, and the human sciences. The degree program’s goal is to develop pastoral leadership skills that meet the missionary needs of the church in today’s challenging cultural environment.

Designed to accommodate the schedules of busy professionals, the program features a hybrid delivery format. This structure caters to working individuals balancing professional responsibilities with academic pursuits.

Through case studies and projects drawn from ministerial experiences, scholars engage in integration and processing with the goal of acquiring advanced competency in ministerial leadership. To achieve this goal, the program provides scholars with a community of practice where ministerial integration is combined with formal coursework and research supervision.

The curriculum is focused on Christian Leadership, with an emphasis on helping existing leaders grow in their vocations, equipping them to respond better to God’s call. Additionally, for previously trained Spiritual Directors we offer a modified curriculum combining Leadership courses with a special focus on the ministry of the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises.

Who Benefits from the D.Min Program?

Experienced ministers, both lay and ordained, seeking career enhancement.
Professionals aspiring to leadership roles in ministry, including Catholic school presidents or high school theology educators transitioning into administrative positions.
Individuals aiming to strengthen their leadership effectiveness within their current ministry contexts.
Aspiring to be a college professor or teach at the university level.

Doctor of Ministry

The Doctor of Ministry with a Concentration in the Ministry of the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake is designed for seasoned ministers who hold a master’s degree in a theological discipline or an equivalent credential.

To support the schedules of busy professionals, the program is delivered in a hybrid format, allowing students to balance professional responsibilities with advanced academic and ministerial formation.

The concentration in the Ministry of the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises builds upon the core curriculum of the standard Doctor of Ministry program. It replaces four courses in the original curriculum with a focused, four-course sequence dedicated specifically to the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises. Offered in collaboration with Amoris Christi, this sequence is designed for those seeking to appropriate, strengthen, and integrate the charisms associated with contemplative spiritual direction within the living tradition of Ignatian prayer and the discernment of spirits.

Recognizing the unique formation required of Christian leaders who accompany others spiritually, the courses cultivate deep understanding and practical competency in Ignatian contemplative spiritual direction and retreat ministry. Participants will be equipped to apply this art fruitfully in parish settings, Christian formation contexts, and other ministerial environments.

Who Benefits from the D.Min Program?

Experienced ministers, both lay and ordained, seeking career enhancement.
Professionals aspiring to leadership roles in ministry, including Catholic school presidents or high school theology educators transitioning into administrative positions.
Individuals aiming to strengthen their leadership effectiveness within their current ministry contexts.
Aspiring to be a college professor or teach at the university level.

Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (MAPS)

The Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (MAPS) program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake (USML) includes a range of classes explicitly oriented to applying theological knowledge in ministry. The program also includes a practicum and pastoral project as part of its requirements.

The MAPS equips you with the knowledge and skills to become a dynamic leader in your parish or community. It is a transformative journey that nurtures your personal and spiritual growth.

This degree provides a solid foundation in pastoral research methods and Catholic theology. You will gain the ability to evangelize and catechize your community, interpret Scripture with historical accuracy, understand sacramental and theological perspectives, and respond to ethical questions with a firm grounding in Catholic moral tradition.

Who Benefits from the MAPS Program?

Those working as a Religious Educator/Catechist
Those preparing for a career in Evangelization
Those looking to grow in knowledge and skills
Deacons and pastoral ministers

Complement existing skills and open doors to fulfilling careers in:

High school religious education
Pastoral associate
Hospital, military, or corporate chaplaincy
Missionary work
Parish Ministry

Master of Arts in Liturgical Studies (MALS)

The Master of Arts in Liturgical Studies (MALS) program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake (USML) is the same as the MAL program, and it is designed for those who plan to work at parish, diocesan, or secondary education levels. In addition to the MAL program, the MALS is considered an “academic” degree. It requires reading knowledge of Latin and one modern foreign language and writing an academic thesis. This program may be completed online over two academic years, on campus over five summers, or part-time.

The MALS is a prerequisite to attaining your PhD, and successful completion of the MALS opens the possibility of further studies at the PhD level. With the MALS, you will immerse yourself in a dedicated community that fosters in-depth learning and spiritual formation in the rich Catholic tradition.

Who Benefits from the MALS Program?

Priests and those who plan to work at the parish, diocesan, or secondary education levels
Director of Worship
People who specialize in religious art, architecture, music, and book publishing
Those preparing for doctoral studies in liturgy

Master of Arts in Liturgy (MAL)

The Master of Arts in Liturgy (MAL) program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake (USML) allows you to delve deeper into the theoretical and practical aspects of sacred liturgy, including changes in liturgical practices, understanding Catholic law and theology, and more. Students will gain extensive knowledge of Church reforms and changes throughout time. The program also focuses on the dedicated liturgy of the church, the beauty and tradition of the church, and understanding the grace of rituals, art, and architecture.

This specialized degree program is carefully crafted for individuals passionate about serving in a parish or diocesan church. It is a terminal professional degree that provides a distinctive path for your career; in other words, this path does not allow you to pursue a PhD. If you aspire to pursue a PhD, we also offer the Master of Arts in Liturgical Studies (MALS) program.

Who Benefits from the MAL Program?

Priests and those who plan to work at the parish, diocesan, or secondary education levels
Director of Worship
People who specialize in religious art, architecture, music, and book publishing

Master of Theological Studies (MTS)

The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake (USML) is a graduate-level academic program comprised of only 36 credit hours, including nine electives. It is broadly based in theology to provide a solid foundation and equip you with a deeper understanding of faith and its role in the world.

The MTS program is perfect for working adults and offers flexible scheduling. With the MTS program, you’ll gain a supportive community, connect with like-minded individuals, and grow in faith together. You’ll experience personal and spiritual growth as you embark on a transformative journey that fosters purpose in all aspects of your life.

Who Benefits from the MTS Program?

Those interested in preparing for doctoral studies or seeking to integrate theological knowledge with their existing skills (e.g., social workers)
Anyone seeking to deepen their faith and serve others
Teachers
Chaplains

Complement existing skills and open doors to fulfilling careers in:

Church administration
High school religious education
Hospital, military, or corporate chaplaincy
Missionary work

Post-Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Leadership

The Post-Graduate Certificate is an advanced credential oriented towards ministerial leadership. Its purpose is to enhance the practice of ministry for persons who hold a master’s degree or its equivalent as determined by a Prior Learning Assessment, and who have engaged in substantial ministerial leadership. The Post-Graduate Certificate is appropriate for persons who work as pastors, associate pastors, pastoral associates, directors of religious education and analogous roles, chaplains, college faculty members, and diocesan agency staff.

The Post-Graduate Certificate at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake is geared towards pastoral leadership. The course work is drawn from our Doctor of Ministry program. The overall goal is to enhance the understanding of the nature and practice of ministry, to develop competencies in pastoral analysis and ministerial skills, and to integrate these through a practice of ministry in which theological integration is transformative.

The certificate program consists of 18 semester hours of coursework drawn from the doctoral courses offered in a two-year cycle.

Parish Ministry Programs that Transform

Our Parish Ministry Programs equip lay leaders with the tools and formation needed to serve effectively in today’s Church.

Through a holistic approach that integrates spiritual, intellectual, pastoral, and human formation, students grow not only in knowledge, but in discipleship and leadership.

Graduates serve as:

Parish leaders and coordinators
Catechists
Evangelization leaders
Youth and young adult ministers
Catholic school and diocesan leaders

Learn more about each of our Parish Ministry Certificates:

Lay Leadership Program

Forming Faithful Leaders for a Life of Service

The Lay Leadership Program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake is a two-year journey of spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral formation rooted in the Catholic Tradition. Designed for adult learners, this program equips the laity with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to serve more effectively in ministry and deepen their understanding of the faith.

Whether you’re a parish volunteer, a lifelong learner seeking Catholic enrichment, or a religious novice preparing for future service, this program offers a rigorous yet accessible path toward personal growth and ecclesial leadership.

Graduates of the program earn a Certificate of Studies from the University of Saint Mary of the Lake, affirming their commitment to the Church and readiness to lead with compassion, clarity, and conviction.

This program is designed for people seeking to:

Grow in their faith and spirituality
Grow as human persons in the Divine Image as a Missionary Disciple.
Engage in deep, systematic study of the Scriptures, Church History, Catholic Doctrine, the Sacraments, and the Catechism
Take classes with top scholars and Archdiocesan leaders, including faculty from the University of Saint Mary of the Lake
Develop confidence and practical skills for active participation in the life of the Church
Participate in a cohort, learning in a supportive community and building valuable relationships with other Catholics who are passionate about their faith

Academic Overview

Classes consist of lecture, small and large group discussions as well as written integration assignments. While this is a non-graded program, students are evaluated at the end of each course as to their successful completion and comprehension of the content, both academically as well as personally and pastorally.

Classes meet weekly on Monday evenings throughout the academic year. Locations include:

University of Saint Mary of the Lake, Mundelein
Various sites around the Archdiocese of Chicago
Remote learning to be determined based on enrollment

Academic Courses include:

Skills in Ministry – Year I
Old Testament – Year I
New Testament – Year I
Church History – Year II
Liturgical and Sacramental Theology – Year II
Spirituality – Year II

Formation Component

Participants join together on one Saturday each month for a Formation Day of prayer, input, and reflection. Many graduates reflect upon Formation Days with fond memories of insightful conversation, intellectual growth, and a renewed sense of belonging. These monthly Formation Days begin with Mass at 8:30 am and conclude at 4:00 pm.

The formation process engages students in the four dimensions of ministry formation: human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral.

Catechetical Coordinator

Forming Faithful Leaders to Teach, Lead, and Inspire

The Catechetical Coordinator Program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake is a one-year, in-person formation experience designed to prepare individuals for leadership roles in parish catechesis and evangelization.

Building on the foundation of the Lay Leadership Program (or equivalent formation), this certification equips participants with the theological knowledge, pastoral skills, and spiritual depth needed to coordinate and lead effective faith formation programs at the parish level.

Ideal for those seeking employment or advancement in parish ministry, this program blends academic study with hands-on formation to empower lay leaders to form others in the Catholic faith with clarity, creativity, and fidelity.

Courses are offered in the following formats:

This program is designed for people seeking to:

Grow in their faith and spirituality.
Grow as human persons in the Divine Image as a Missionary Disciple.
Engage in deep, systematic study of Christology/Evangelization, Ecclesiology/Mission, and Pastoral Theology.
Take classes with top scholars and Archdiocesan leaders, including faculty from the University of Saint Mary of the Lake.
Develop confidence and practical skills for active participation in the life of the Church.
Participate in a cohort, learning in a supportive community and building valuable relationships with other Catholics who are passionate about their faith.

Academic Overview

Classes meet weekly on Monday evenings throughout the academic year. Central Location is TBD based on student location.

Academic Courses:

Christology/Evangelization
Ecclesiology/Mission
Pastoral Theology

Formation Component

The formation process engages students in the four dimensions of ministry formation: human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral.

All students begin the year with an Orientation Day on August 25, 2024 and an Opening Retreat weekend September 13 – 14, 2024.

In addition to the annual retreat, participants join together on one Saturday each month for a Formation Day of prayer, input, and reflection. Many graduates reflect upon Formation Days with fond memories of insightful conversation, intellectual growth, and a renewed sense of belonging. These monthly Formation Days begin with Mass at 8:30 am and conclude at 4:00 pm.

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Lay Leaders Help the Church Carry Out Its Mission

The Catholic Church depends on both clergy and lay leaders to carry out its mission of proclaiming the Gospel and building the Kingdom of God. Faithful, well-formed lay leaders bring their lived experience of family, work, and community into the life of the Church, helping to bridge faith and everyday life. Serving alongside priests and deacons, they strengthen parish life, lead ministries, and extend the Church’s presence in the world. Together, clergy and laity form a living partnership—united by baptism and guided by the Holy Spirit—to share Christ’s love and renew the Church.

At the University of Saint Mary of the Lake’s School of Parish Leadership and Evangelization (SPLE), this vision becomes a reality. SPLE provides degree, parish-ministry, deacon-formation and continuing-education programs in English and Spanish that equip lay men and women with theological grounding, pastoral skills and ministerial identity for service alongside clergy. Participants are immersed in a community of faith and learning, benefit from faculty shared with our seminary, and are prepared in both mind and heart to lead their parishes, schools and dioceses in the Church’s mission.