Certificate of Advanced Specialization in Theology (C.A.S.)

This is a post-degree certificate. The C.A.S. (Certificate of Advanced Specialization) provides advanced training beyond the master’s level. It is designed for those students who have graduated with a degree in theology or a related field at least three years previously, and who wish to update their skills, or acquire new ones.

C.A.S. Program

The Certificate of Advanced Specialization requires half the number of courses needed for a master’s degree (i.e. six courses rather than twelve). The Certificate can be completed in a maximum of three summers, and the program is individualized for each student. The student chooses the area of specialization as well as the electives in consultation with the program director.

Admission Prerequisites

Applicants need a graduate degree in theology, religious education, or a related field, and normally three years experience following the awarding of the Master’s degree.

Special Notes

Time Limit: There is a seven year statute of limitations requirement. The student must complete the degree or certificate program within seven years from the start of the first semester of course work. Only under special circumstances may students petition for an extension.

Activities: During the summer months, in order to foster the sense of community and to educate the whole person, the campus furnishes a variety of activities aside from classroom work: theater, concerts, day trips, hikes, visits to surrounding areas, movies, and lectures. The campus has a fine arts building with a theater and an art gallery; a recreation center with pool, gymnasium and racket courts; and is situated close to Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains.

Housing: The summer program provides housing for students who may reside in the residence halls (single rooms) or choose to live with a group of three others in a comfortable townhouse. The townhouses provide private rooms, a large lounge, and kitchen facilities. Townhouse accommodations are also available to families.

Liturgy: There are regular liturgical celebrations during the summer program. An emphasis is placed on the afternoon liturgy, the community’s act of worship near the end of the day. Here many persons and talents are brought together in a celebration that expresses our unity in faith and life.

Fees: Our tuition costs have remained competitive with comparable institutions. Auditors and Certificate of Advanced Specialization (C.A.S.) students pay a lower tuition fee.

Financial Aid: Some financial assistance is available to students. For more information, please contact the Director of Graduate Theology and Pastoral Ministry at 802.654.2579.

Faculty: Saint Michael’s Theology and Pastoral Ministry faculty are internationally known and have come from a number of North American and European countries. They also reflect a broad spectrum of religious communities and their traditions, and include a number of lay women and men. New faculty are added each year to augment those faculty members who are with us on a more regular basis. This provides both continuity and fresh perspectives to our program. Please refer to the faculty listings in the back of this catalogue for a partial list of former and current faculty members.