Seminary after university?

[CHCatholic]

So, I’m still discerning, and I’m hoping to get a Bachelor in Philosophy/Theology. If I were to get this, THEN decide to enter the seminary, would this cut down on my seminary time? I would assume so…what about some one like Weigel or Kreeft who have theological/philosophical degrees out the whazoo…how would a Bishop deal with such a situation?

Thanks!

 

[Joannm]

So, I’m still discerning, and I’m hoping to get a Bachelor in Philosophy/Theology. If I were to get this, THEN decide to enter the seminary, would this cut down on my seminary time? I would assume so…what about some one like Weigel or Kreeft who have theological/philosophical degrees out the whazoo…how would a Bishop deal with such a situation?

Thanks!

In my diocese all it would probably take off is the pre-theology year, which is for those men without any theology or philosophy credits. A bachelor’s degree is required to begin studies in the major seminary. If you had an MA in theology that might take off some time in the major seminary.

 

[Friar_David_O.Carm]

As was said, a bachelors degree is required for entry to the seminary. You also will need 30 credits of Philosophy and 12 credits of Theology. With the major you are contemplating you will meet this requirement.

The pre-theology year is done to fulfill these requirements so very soon that will most likely become the pre-theology two year program.

The degree you work on at the seminary is a Masters of Divinity which is a four year professional masters degree program.

As was said if you have a Masters in Theology it might, maybe, be able to cut some time off but I am not too sure on that as the theologate I will be attending has a joint M.Div./MA Theology program you can do but it is 5 years to complete it.

 

[chicago]

While (with solid accreditation) you might not have to take as many “pre-theology” courses, I would warn against seeing seminary as simple completion of a degree program. It is much more than that in its human/spiritual formation and discernment. As such, it is even possible that a bishop would direct you to spend that extra year, still, in some sort of ministry position while taking limited classes in order to aqauint you with the experience and expose you to an environment while aiding you in discernment.