Philosophy for Ministry

Saint Louis University's certificate in philosophy for ministry, offered at the College of Philosophy and Letters, is designed for students on the path to Catholic priesthood, but who have already earned a bachelor's degree. The 38 credits of coursework in this program satisfy the philosophical requirements for ordination, as determined by the Conference of Catholic Bishops and Society of Jesus.

1. Graduates will be able to identify connections among major thinkers and ideas that have shaped the history of Western philosophy.
2. Graduates will be able to state and explain key philosophical ideas and methods suitable for understanding and analyzing contexts of Catholic ministry.
3. Graduates will be able to analyze specific challenges in the contexts of Catholic ministry using philosophy and other relevant knowledge.

Send transcripts of all secondary work.

Find out from your admission counselor what secondary credentials are required. We’ll evaluate how you’ve done in school up to this point, so please send all transcripts for secondary work, along with their English language translations.

Submit proof of your English language proficiency.

These are scores from any standardized test you may have taken to prepare for college — TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, SAT, ACT or Duolingo score. All of our international applicants are required to demonstrate their English proficiency, and these tests can help us make that determination.

If you do not meet SLU’s direct entry requirements, we encourage you to apply to the Pathway or English Language programs offered by INTO Saint Louis University.

Recommended items.

Though not required for admission, submission of a resume of activities and letters of recommendation is encouraged. All undergraduate applicants are also encouraged to complete an admission interview.

Saint Louis University's certificate in philosophy for ministry, offered at the College of Philosophy and Letters, is designed for students on the path to Catholic priesthood, but who have already earned a bachelor's degree. The 38 credits of coursework in this program satisfy the philosophical requirements for ordination, as determined by the Conference of Catholic Bishops and Society of Jesus.