The Boston College School of Nursing and the Institute of Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry offer a joint degree option leading to two separate graduate degrees, a MS in Nursing, and a MA in Pastoral Ministry. This program prepares students for advanced nursing practice while providing ministry skills useful in a variety of pastoral settings such as religious congregations and health care institutions.
The joint degree option enables students to earn the two master's degrees simultaneously in three years, or in two academic years with summer study. The plan of study can be extended if the student prefers part-time study.
Students can choose to specialize in any of the clinical specialty areas offered by the Boston College School of Nursing. Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Specialist options are available.
Sample Curriculum
Year I - Summer: 8 credits
- Christology (2) or Ecclesiology (2)
- Old Testament (2)
- Ethics Requirement (2)
Year I - Fall: 12 credits
- NU 415 Concepts in Nursing (3)
- NU 520 Nursing Research (3)
- NU 672 Pathophysiology (3)
- Nursing Specialty Theory I (3)
Year I - Spring: 9 credits
- NU 420 Pharmacology (3)
- NU 525 Integrative Review (3)
- NU 320 Nursing Faith Communities (3)
- Nursing Specialty Theory II (3)
Year II - Summer: 7 credits
- NU 430 Advanced Health Assessment (3)
- New Testament (2)
- Sacred Art of Pastoral Counseling (2)
Year II - Fall: 9 credits
- Nursing Specialty Practicum II (6)
- Theology and Pastoral Practice (3)
Year II - Spring: 9 credits
- Nursing Specialty Practicum II (6)
- Leadership and Practice of Ministry (3)
Year III - Summer: 4 credits
- Spirituality Elective (2)
- Theology/Religious Education Elective (2)
- IREPEM Synthesis Project
Course Descriptions and Schedules are available.
The curriculum plan above is one example of the 79 credit MS/MA option. Each student develops an individualized plan of study with his or her faculty advisor; the curriculum plan above shows the full-time plan for the duration of the program.