The University of Dallas School of Ministry announces a new concentration in Church Management in its Masters in Pastoral Ministry program. In collaboration with UD’s College of Business, the School of Ministry will begin to offer this new concentration in the fall of 2010. The Master of Pastoral Ministry degree with a concentration in Church Management will require 36 credit hours of course work, a successful capstone with the combination of 18 credit hours from the School of Ministry, 12 credit hours from the College of Business and six electives in approved business or ministry courses.
“With the arrival of ‘mega churches’ and the prospect of fewer and aging clergy, the need for skilled leaders who understand both the mission and the management of Catholic parishes in the U.S. is urgent,” said Dr. Brian Schmisek, dean of the School of Ministry.
“I commend the University of Dallas School of Ministry for responding to the needs of the time,” said Bishop Kevin Farrell of Dallas, who is also chancellor of the University of Dallas. “The Church is in great need of leaders who have not only strong theological and pastoral skills but also the business acumen necessary for the efficient operation of our churches and schools today. This new concentration in church management will only help in building up the Church in the United States.”
By combining the core courses for a Masters in Pastoral Ministry degree with appropriate business courses, this new concentration provides study in practical theology, financial management and leadership. This is a must for present or future parish business administrators and diocesan business managers who want more grounding in theology, as well as for priests, deacons, and pastoral associates who wish to strengthen their administrative and leadership skills. Certificate options are also available.
“We encourage the steps taken by the University of Dallas School of Ministry in meeting this critical need,” said Kerry Robinson, executive director of the National Leadership Roundtable on Church Management. “The church needs highly competent, well-educated managers to succeed in its mission. This new degree program helps to answer that need.”
Applications for the Church Management concentration are currently being accepted. For more information about the program visit: www.udallas.edu/cm.