St. Francis Xavier University, in keeping with its Catholic tradition as a leader in adult education, offers the Diploma in Ministry Program through distance education.

It is a five course program, designed for adults who may be involved in ministry in their parish or diocese and who wish to develop their faith, knowledge and ministry skills.

It is also of interest to those who wish to enhance their faith through studies based on solid Catholic theology.

The program is modeled on our award winning distance education format that recognizes the lived experience of the adult learner. It is based on the following principles which support the goal of faith development.

Ministry
Ministry, as a call to service, is a central theme in the program. The role of the laity is explored at the parish, diocesan and other levels and is integrated throughout the program.

Christian Spirituality
The program recognizes that personal spiritual growth is essential to ministry. Courses in the development of Christian belief and practice encourage the growth of both community and personal faith.

Applied Theory
The program provides the knowledge and skills required to lead, facilitate, or organize others in faith development activities at the parish/diocesan or other levels. The program culminates in the application of learning in a ministry-related project.

 Learner-Centered Approach
The program's distance-education format allows learners to study with minimum disruption to family and work schedules. The program recognizes particular needs by its "individualized" aspect of study and policies on course selection and credit transfer.

Companionship
The program seeks to strengthen the faith community through a network of learners/graduates committed to mutual encouragement and the sharing of ideas and resources.