WTU

Online Graduate Certificate in Franciscan Theology and Spirituality

Introduction

A new part of the Graduate Certificate in Franciscan Studies is the Distant Learning Component. In today's world Christians are finding that the Internet is a place to seek and study spirituality. This new component attempts to meet Christians in their own context. This online educational component offers something different than the typical classroom experience:

Contextual Learning that occurs along side academic learning
Asynchronous learning that occurs at the student's own pace and time
A deeper dialogue on the issues with students and teacher in weekly blogs

This online education component also makes available the spiritual wealth Washington Theological Union has to offer to students who cannot physically come to the WTU campus. It invites dialogue on spiritual concerns and interest, community building among students and faculty, and allows for a continuous conversation with the issues raised in the live online classes.

The Franciscan certificate program uses the online educational software Blackboard. Tutorials and technological assistance will be provided to all who participate in this part of the program.

Purpose

The Franciscan Certificate Program is structured for persons seeking deeper knowledge in the area of Franciscan spirituality, theology and history. It is intended for personal enrichment, ministerial enhancement and a deepening of religious formation. Those obtaining this certificate may apply some credits toward a master's degree.

This certificate is sponsored by the Franciscan Center and explores the spiritual and pastoral implications of the Franciscan charism. Beyond the purely historical study of the centuries old Franciscan tradition, values and issues relevant to today are examined.

Field of Study and Curriculum Requirement

Students must pass at least 18 credit hours to obtain a certificate. The following courses are offered in the online program:

1st Semester

Writings of Francis and Clare (2)
History of the Franciscan Movement (2)

2nd Semester

Foundations of Franciscan Spirituality (2)
Prayer in the Franciscan Tradition (2)

3rd Semester

Christology in the Franciscan Tradition (2)
Pastoral Ministry: A Franciscan Approach (2)

4th Semester

The Franciscan Intellectual Tradition (2)
Theology of Bonaventure (2)

Other courses include Franciscan mysticism, lay Franciscan women, and Franciscan art and spirituality.

Final Summer Capstone Program: The Assisi Experience

The capstone to this certificate program is an on-site learning component in Assisi. There is no better way to understand the contextual aspect of the Franciscan charism than by making a study pilgrimage to the place where it began. The immersion study pilgrimage represents 2 credits.

Independent Study

Students may opt out of the Assisi immersion experience and complete an independent study or project. This allows for a student to integrate Franciscan studies in their present ministry.