Continuing Education

On these pages Catholic adults serious about growing in knowledge of their faith can find information about some solid opportunities, many of which lead to degrees in theology or related fields.

Augustine Institute

Based in Denver, CO, the Augustine Institute is a graduate school established in 2005 and provides excellent on-campus and distance learning. Students can receive either a Master of Arts in Theology or a Master of Arts in Leadership for the New Evangelization. Only the Master of Arts in Theology can be completed through distane education. Both of these degrees are oriented toward training leaders for the New Evangelization, to work in missionary apostolates, dioceses, parishes, and many other outreach opportunities. Students who choose to pursue the degree through distance education can take up to three classes per semester, although many choose only to take one or two due to their work schedule. Distance education students can also come to the campus to take intensive courses (either in January or June) to experience the campus enviornment. Some students are eligible for need-based scholarships.

Types of Programs: Master of Arts in Theology (available on-campus and through distance education) and Master of Arts in Leadership for the New Evangelization (available on-campus only)

Franciscan University (Stubenville)

Franciscan University offers two Master of Arts degrees through an online program: Master of Arts in Catechetics and Evangelization and Master of Arts in Theology and Christian Ministry. Using Blackboard, these online classes use interactive tools so that you can participate in a virtual classroom. The content includes professional, recorded lectures by the professors at Franciscan University. These online programs are fully accredited by the North Central Higher Learning Commission and Ohio Board of Regents. These online programs mirror the experience of students on campus. These degrees offer you a solid education in the faith, interactive learning, and flexibility for your schedule.

Types of Programs: Master of Arts in Catechetics and Evangelization and Master of Arts in Theology and Christian Ministry (both available online)

The Catholic Distance University

The Catholic Distance University was established in 1983 as the first Catechetical Institute in the US approved by the Vatican Congregation for the Clergy to offer adult faith formation and theological education exclusively through distance education. Today, CDU offers online programs at a variety of levels to adults in 37 countries worldwide. CDU offers noncredit continuing education, undergraduate and graduate education. In addition, the university awards an accredited Master of Arts degree in Theology, a Bachelor of Arts in Theology Degree (degree-completion), the Catechetical Diploma, and an Advanced Catechist Certificate. Their continuing education three-week online interactive seminars are designed especially for catechists, Catholic schoolteachers, parishioners, parents, Catholic professionals, and all adults who are hungry for inspiring, faith-filled programs in fidelity to the Church’s authentic Magisterium. CDU specializes in learner-centered, collaborative online learning communities and has over twenty years of experience in distance learning. 

Types of Programs: Online Master of Arts Degree in Theology, Bachelor of Arts in Theology Degree Completion Program, Catechetical Diploma, Advanced Catechist Certificate, and Adult/Catechist Faith Enrichment through online interactive seminars. All programs are administered through online and paper-based technologies. No residency required.