About the Certificate Program
Seminary's Theological Education for Parish Services (STEPS) Program is a graduate-level certificate program for adult Catholics who desire a deeper understanding of their faith. Offering classes at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church in Ridgewood, New Jersey, STEPS expands the opportunity for lay graduate education beyond the Seminary building to a local parish hall. STEPS offers an integrated program of theological coursework, praxis and spiritual formation to ensure professional preparation of its students for Church ministry. Students leave the program with a new enthusiasm for and understanding of their faith, ready to live it and share it in their homes, parishes and work communities.
How to Apply
Application Deadlines
For enrollment in the Fall Semester, apply by August 1.
For enrollment in the Spring Semester, apply by December 15.
ICSST accepts applications on a rolling basis for admittance to summer programs.
Application Requirements
In addition to the general University requirements for admission to graduate studies, ICSST requires the following:
- a baccalaureate degree, preferably in the humanities, from an accredited college or university;
- official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work done to date (student transcripts or photocopies are not acceptable);
- two letters of reference attesting to the student's academic potential and personal qualifications to pursue advanced theological studies;
- completed application forms with a $50 nonrefundable application fee; and
- results of the TOEFL Test (for students born or raised in non-English speaking countries).
Curriculum
Each semester, two three-credit courses in such areas as scripture, systematic theology, Christian ethics and Church history
are offered at the off-campus location.
- The Old Testament
BIBL 6529 Spirituality of the Old Testament
The Old Testament insight into the progressive revelation of Divine Presence and Fidelity. A study of the creation stories; the Exodus event; the sagas; Divine forgiveness and faithfulness; the call to holiness, and its particular and universal aspects.
- Synoptic Gospels
BIBL 6501 Synoptic Gospels
An historical and critical approach to the study of the gospels, its limits and benefits, and its acceptability to the Church. The "synoptic problem" and the consequences of its resolution for study of the Gospels. Diverse forms within the Gospels and the characteristics of each Gospel.
- Church History
HSTD 6809 History of Christianity
An overview of Christianity from its origins to the present: the evolution of Christianity from a movement within Judaism to a world religion. Issues such as Church-state relations, the Reformation and the influence of the Enlightenment on the Church are major themes.
- Documents of Vatican II
STHO 6246 Theology of Vatican II
A study of the background against which Pope John XXIII called Vatican Council II, the Council's preparation and its deliberations, as well as some consideration of its implementation.
- John and Paul
BIBL 6505 Introduction to Pauline and Johannine Literature
An introduction to the various historical, literary and theological aspects of the fourth Gospel and of Paul's Letters, especially those to the Galatians and Romans.
- Sacramental Theology
STHO 6503 Sacraments of Initiation
A Biblical, historical, theological and liturgical treatment of the Sacraments of Christian Initiation.
- Systematic Theology
STHO 6202 Revelation and Faith
An historical and systematic examination of the Catholic understanding of God's self-communication and humanity's correlative response in faith.
- Moral Theology
CETH 6130 Major Themes in Christian Ethics
A survey of Christian ethics, including fundamental moral theology and Catholic teaching on sexual morality, health care and social justice.
