Saint Louis University's Master of Arts in Philosophy and Theology for Ministry, offered through the College of Philosophy and Letters, provides the interdisciplinary foundations for intelligent ministry in the Church and further divinity studies required for ordination. For future priests, the degree also offers the opportunity to satisfy one year of the four years of graduate theological studies required for ordination.

International students can study the Philosophy and Theology for Ministry at Saint Louis University at its main campus in Saint Louis , United States of America. This Master degree is available as a Full Time program delivered on campus in English. The program has a duration of 2 years and is offered at the university's main campus. Students can apply for the next intake starting on August 23, 2027.
About Master of Philosophy and Theology for Ministry
- Students will be able to assess relevant literature in philosophy and theology.
- Students will be able to discuss connections among major thinkers and ideas that have shaped the history of philosophy and theology.
- Students will be able to analyze challenges in the contexts of ministry using philosophy, theology, and other relevant sources of knowledge (personal experience, and other disciplinary knowledge if pertinent).
- Students will be able to evidence professional integrity in their reflection on challenges in contexts of ministry.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Master of Philosophy and Theology for Ministry at Saint Louis University
Entry Requirements
- Completed application
- Undergraduate degree (most successful applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or better)
- Official transcript from a degree-granting institution
- Statement of purpose (about 500 words)
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- External reference recommendations (encouraged but not required)
Upon admission, a new student must successfully complete a virtual meeting with their academic coach to be enrolled in first term coursework.
• Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.
English Requirements
- PTEMin 54
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 80
Career Opportunities after Completing Master of Philosophy and Theology for Ministry
Saint Louis University's Master of Arts in Philosophy and Theology for Ministry provides the intellectual foundations for intelligent service of the Gospel and further studies in divinity. Together with suitable pre-requisites in philosophy, the program allows students to complete the philosophical coursework, and one year of theological coursework, required for ordination in the Catholic priesthood, as stipulated in the "Program of Priestly Formation (PPF)."
Tuition and Fee Information for Master of Philosophy and Theology for Ministry at Saint Louis University
How to Apply for Master of Philosophy and Theology for Ministry at Saint Louis University
Step 1: Accept or decline your admission
If you applied using SLU’s online graduate application, you can notify us about your decision to accept or decline your admission by logging in and clicking on “Manage Your Account.” From there, you can access the decision form.
If you’ve used a third-party, centralized application to apply — such as SOPHAS for public health programs or CASPA for physician administration programs — you’ll need to email us directly at [email protected] with your decision.
Step 2: Set up your SLU Net ID
Follow these step-by-step instructions to set up your SLU Net ID.
Step 3: Log into MySLU
Log into mySLU at auth.slu.edu. Use your SLU Net ID and SLU Net Password, then click "Login." Click on the "Tools" tab to find links to systems, such as Banner Self-Service and other SLU applications and systems.
When logging in for the first time, you will be directed to set up your multi-factor authentication. You will need to log in upon completing that process.
Step 4: Check with your academic department
Contact your department in order to receive enrollment directions, important dates and other information specific to your graduate program. You can also check the University calendar.
Step 5: Read the Saint Louis University Graduate Catalog
Step 6: Submit your immunization and health insurance forms
If you decide to attend SLU, you will need to submit your immunization records and health history. You will also need to submit a health plan enrollment/waiver form.
Step 7: Visit parking and card services to obtain your SLU ID card
You’ll use your SLU ID card to access student services and campus buildings such as the library. Make sure to bring a photo ID, along with a copy of your class schedule.

United States of America, Saint Louis