MAPS/Pre-Theology 

Master of Arts (Philosophical Studies for Missionary Discipleship) (MAPS)

 PURPOSE OF THE DEGREE

The Master of Arts (Philosophical Studies for Missionary Discipleship) (MAPS) is a graduate program of philosophical studies in preparation for graduate study in theology or philosophy in service to the church and for further formation for the priesthood. This degree program serves the mission of the seminary in the following ways:
  1. In keeping with the seminary’s primary mission, the MAPS program provides the philosophical and preparatory theological background required by the Program of Priestly Formation (PPF) for entrance into an M.Div. program, in an environment where the four dimensions of formation for the priesthood are addressed.
  2. In keeping with the secondary mission of the seminary, the MAPS program is available to nonresident students desiring to pursue graduate philosophical studies in service to the church, preparing students to integrate theological and philosophical principles so that they can better engage the world today.

PRINCIPAL GOALS OF THE MASTER OF ARTS (PHILOSOPHICAL STUDIES  FOR MISSIONARY DISCIPLESHIP) PROGRAM

The goals of the MAPS program are expressed in the following Student Learning Outcomes, which call for graduates to be able to
  1. demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of philosophy necessary to pursue higher-level graduate study of theology including the history of philosophy, logic, epistemology, philosophy of nature, metaphysics, natural theology, philosophical anthropology, and ethics (as outlined in the PPF #155–156, 182) (Philosophical Content: MAPS SLO-1);
  2. demonstrate the knowledge of theology necessary to pursue higher-level graduate study of theology including church teachings, Scripture, and the role of the Church in the world (Theological Content: MAPS SLO-2);
  3. integrate philosophical and theological concepts, demonstrating the ability to research the thought of and dialogue with philosophers of different eras, including modern thinkers, and the capacity to make the link “between philosophical insights and theological frameworks” (PPF 186) (Integration: MAPS SLO-3);
  4. communicate graduate-level philosophical and theological concepts in appropriate writing or presentation style, in a way that is logical, engaging, and responsive to questions asked by scholars or the lay public today (Communication: MAPS SLO-4).
Prospective seminarians interested in the MAPS/Pre-Theology program should speak to their diocesan vocation director to discuss their discernment. Lay students interested in applying to the MAPS program should contact the Director of Nonresident Students at (561) 732-4424 or fill out this Contact Form for further information. 
MAPS/Pre-Theology Plan of Studies

Mailing Address:
St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary
Attn: Academic Office
10701 S. Military Trail
Boynton Beach, FL 33436-4899
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