Certificate in Theological Studies to Begin Fall 2008
Siena Heights University Initiates New Online Program

ADRIAN, Mich. – Siena Heights University will initiate a new online program, offering a certificate in Theological Studies in the fall 2008 term.

While the program has had success in the traditional classroom setting, the online format will allow for flexible scheduling to meet the needs of adult students. The online classes will offer students an in-depth pursuit of theology and better prepare them for ministry in a variety of church settings. According to Program Coordinator Sister Chris Matthews, OP, the program is grounded in the rich Catholic tradition.

With most courses conducted in an eight-week format, the Siena Heights program is accredited by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Certification and Accreditation. Upon successful completion of the program, a certificate in Theological Studies is granted, which proves to be valuable in applying for ministerial positions, Matthews said. Students also benefit from personal spiritual growth from taking courses such as Theological Ethics, Introduction to the Christian Scriptures, Church History and Ministry, Management and Leadership.

“The program in Theological Studies fulfills the Siena Heights mission to assist people to become more competent, purposeful and ethical,” Matthews said. “Siena Heights University employs qualified faculty who teach in the name of the Catholic Church to meet the needs of nontraditional students while maintaining the excellence of a university education. Many of the faculty have been teaching in similar SHU programs since 1996.”

Deadline for registering for fall classes is Aug. 11. For more information on the Theological Studies program at Siena Heights, please contact Sister Chris Matthews, OP, at 517-264-7632 or email her at cmatthew@sienaheights.edu