AOR Center Frequently Asked Questions

The Graduate Certificate can be completed entirely online. The program format is asynchronous, meaning that you will not be required to meet with your instructor or classmates at pre-set times. While you will still have plenty of opportunity for personal interaction, you will be able to complete the assignments on your own schedule. The Graduate Certificate requires completion of five courses, for a total of 15 credit hours. The entire program can be completed within 12 months.

The master's degree builds on the Graduate Certificate. After completing the certificate requirements and being admitted to the MAPT program, students have the option of taking the remaining seven courses (21 credit hours) on campus in St. Louis or online, by participating in live classes remotely (via Zoom). The Formation for Health Care Mission Leaders I & II courses, however, must be taken on-site during two, one-week long intensives at the beginning and end of the academic year. The entire program can be completed within two years (i.e. one year in addition to the certificate program).

Admission to the Graduate Certificate program requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Admission to the MAPT program requires all of the above, plus successful completion of the Graduate Certificate.

Admission to the Dual MA/PhD program requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Dual MA/PhD students must apply and be admitted to both programs separately to complete the dual degree program. It is preferred that students apply to the two programs simultaneously for a fall start; however, students may apply to the MA program for a spring semester start and seek admission to the PhD program the following fall. 

Courses in the Graduate Certificate program are taught by our distinguished AOR Center faculty who are recognized for their expertise throughout the world of Catholic health care. They teach in their areas of specialization and have custom-built their courses to meet the ever-evolving needs of health care professionals.

The remaining courses in the MAPT program are taught by our outstanding regular faculty at Aquinas Institute of Theology.

You can find a brief overview of the differences between our programs here. 

If you're not sure whether the certificate or the master's is best for you, you can simply apply for the certificate program, since the certificate courses are required for both programs. We will then be happy to help you discern at a later date whether the master's program is a good fit for you and your vocational goals. 

If you have any further questions about our programs, don't hesitate to contact us at admissions@ai.edu.