Licentiate in Theology (ThL)
- ThL in General
- ThL in Biblical Theology
- ThL in Systematic Theology
- ThL in Moral Theology
- ThL in Migration Theology
- ThL in Spirituality in General
- ThL in Spirituality and Pastoral Psychology
- ThL in Spirituality and Leadership
ThL in General
Upon admission to the licentiate program the student must choose his/her area of concentration from any of the following:
- Biblical Theology
- Systematic-Dogmatic Theology
- Moral Theology
- Spirituality in General
- Spirituality and Pastoral Psychology
- Spirituality and Leadership
- Migration Theology
Guidelines Common to All Specializations
Admission Requirements: To get accepted to this program the applicants must have the ecclesiastical degree Baccalaureate in Theology (ThB) with at least a general average of 2.0 (B+). Those who finished four years of theology from a seminary that does not offer the ThB may also qualify for the ThL program provided they have good grades (at least a general average of 2.0 or B+) and they can offer some proof (e.g., a research paper they have written in their seminary course, etc.) of their capacity to write a tesina.
Applicants must pass an Entrance Exam administered by the Bulatao Center of Ateneo de Manila. An application interview (in person or online) will be arranged by an LST professor with the applicant. The result of the interview will be forwarded to the Standards and Degrees Committee. The applicants are admitted to the ThL program upon the recommendation of the Standards & Degrees Committee and the approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Students who are admitted by the Vice President for Academic Affairs to LST must complete at least two-thirds of the required course work at LST before receiving a degree. The number of credits to be accepted for transfer will be determined by the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Special attention must be given to the principal theological disciplines which are obligatory (LST Statutes, art. 36).
ThL Language Requirements: The ThL program requires a working knowledge of three languages. The requirements may be satisfied either by {a} taking language courses of two semesters each language in any university/college, provided that at least a grade of B is attained; or by {b} passing a proficiency test administered by LST in any or all of these languages.
The proficiency test for the modern language consists in the translation of a page written in that language to English. The examinee has 30 minutes and can use a dictionary for this exam.
The proficiency test for Biblical Hebrew or Greek is a two-hour exam.
Course Work: The program requires at least three semesters of course work in which the student must successfully complete sixteen (16) licentiate-level theology courses, a comprehensive examination, and a tesina – a total of 120 ECTS.
The courses in the Licentiate Studies Program are classified into Proper, Common, Optional, and Seminar/Reading courses. The Proper courses define the particular profile of each Licentiate specialization. The Common courses concern central themes of theology and aim at interdisciplinarity, to facilitate the placement of the individual Licentiate within the different theological disciplines. The Optional courses are chosen by the student from those offered as Proper by the other Licentiate specialization.
Seminar/Reading Courses: Three seminars or reading courses are taken specifically geared toward the topic of the student’s tesina. At the end of each reading course, the student must submit a written report in the form of a Review of Literature, i.e., a survey and evaluation of books and articles dealing with a specific research topic. The review must cover all the books and articles assigned by the teacher as well as other readings that the student may have discovered for himself/herself in the course of the research. The reading course includes pre-arranged meetings with the teacher to discuss the reading materials.
ThL Comprehensive Examination: After successfully completing the ThL course work the student must pass an oral comprehensive examination. With the help of a professor, the student prepares at least six (6) general thesis statements from courses in his/her field of concentration, each thesis supported by a short, pertinent bibliography. When his/her theses have been judged to be satisfactory by the professor, these are submitted to the Vice President for Academic Affairs for his approval. The thesis statements are then submitted to the examiners, and the student is given at least one month to prepare for the examination. On a date set by the school the student takes the oral examination before a panel of three professors, one of whom is the mentor. Each professor is given 15 minutes to examine the candidate. In case of failure, only one retake is allowed. A second failure automatically disqualifies the student from the program.
ThL Tesina: The ThL program requires the writing and successfully defending a tesina. Students who are ready to begin work on the tesina must register for Thesis Direction and obtain from the Loyola School of Theology Office a copy of the guidelines for writing a tesina. The tesina is prepared under the direction of a mentor appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Nature of the ThL Tesina: The tesina grows out of the work of the seminars and reading courses and presents the principal work of the program. It is not necessary that the tesina make an original contribution to theology. However, on the level of method, it should show a sound grasp of theological method, rigorous application, and precision of expression in short, an aptitude for scientific theological research. It should have the quality of a research article in a scientific theological publication.
A pastoral ministry project which responds to a pastoral need or problem, as long as it exhibits a grasp of theological method, can also fulfill the requirements of the ThL tesina.
ThL Tesina Proposal Defense: Under the guidance of the mentor appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, the student writes a tesina proposal. The proposal, which can serve as the first chapter of the tesina, should present and discuss the following:
- Statement of the Problem
- Scope and Limitations
- Significance of the Study
- Methodology
- Definition of Key Terms
- Basic Bibliography
The proposal (excluding bibliography) should normally not exceed 10 pages and should follow the LST Style Manual (based on Turabian, 9th edition). Once approved by the mentor, five (5) copies of the tesina proposal are submitted to the Vice President for Academic Affairs who appoints a panel of two professors plus the mentor to examine the proposal. On a date specified by the school the student defends his proposal orally before the panel.
The defense consists in [1] a clear presentation (for about 15 minutes) of the written proposal by the writer, covering the tesina’s basic problem or theme, its scope and limitation, its importance, and the basic sources (bibliography) and methods to be used; [2] each professor reviews the proposal with the writer through questions, suggestions, etc., usually for a period of 10 to 15 minutes, depending upon the particular needs of the proposal. The professors may offer brief written recommendations, analyses, suggestions, etc. to the writer, copies of which are also given to the mentor and the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
ThL Tesina Writing: After the proposal has been approved by the panel, the student may now proceed to writing the tesina chapter by chapter. All throughout the writing of the thesis the student must seek the guidance of his/her mentor. Each chapter must be approved by the mentor one at a time. The ThL tesina should be between 80 to 150 pages in length (excluding Bibliography).
ThL Tesina Public Defense: After the mentor has formally certified the tesina ready for public defense, a second reader is assigned by the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Ideally, the second reader is chosen from among the panel of the tesina proposal defense.
It is the task of the second reader to ascertain that the tesina is ready for defense. He/she has the right to order any changes in the tesina he/she considers necessary for it to be truly ready for defense. He/she has the right to declare the tesina not ready for defense and send it back to the student and mentor for further work.
No tesina can be submitted to the other examiners and be scheduled for defense before the second reader has approved it. In case of an unsolvable conflict between the second reader and mentor, an independent panel appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs will decide the issue.
After the second reader declares the tesina ready for defense and after all his/her suggested corrections or changes have been made, the tesina will be submitted to the other readers that, together with the second reader, shall make up the panel of examiners. A date for the defense is then scheduled.
For a tesina of ordinary length, four weeks must be allowed for the second reader to finish his task of reviewing the tesina. An additional two weeks needs to be allowed for the other reader to prepare for the defense of the tesina . The tesina mentor will be the third member of the panel of examiners. (Note the cut off date for defense in the academic calendar of the school for each semester)
Final Grade: The final grade for the ThL program is computed in the following way: forty percent for course work, thirty percent for the tesina, and thirty percent for the final comprehensive examination.
Course Summary for All Specializations
| REQUIREMENTS | NO. OF COURSES | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| NON-THEOLOGY COURSES | ||
| Language Courses | 6 | 24 |
| Methodology Course | 1 | 4 |
| THEOLOGY COURSES | ||
| Proper Courses Per Specialization | 8 | 32 |
| Common Courses Shared by Various Specializations | 2 | 8 |
| Optional Courses Outside the Specialization | 3 | 12 |
| Seminars or Reading Courses | 3 | 12 |
| Licentiate in Theology Comprehensive Examination | 26 | |
| Licentiate in Theology Tesina | 30 | |
| TOTAL THEOLOGY COURSES | 16 | 120 |
Common Courses Shared by Various Specializations
Students may choose 2 courses from any of the course offerings listed under Common Courses below.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 356 | Ignatian Spirituality | 4 |
| TMP 326.07 | Faith and Culture | 4 |
| TMP 326.08 | Faith and Science | 4 |
| TMP 325.20 | The Catholic Church and Other Religions | 4 |
| TMP 315.03 | Biblical Perspectives on Ecology | 4 |
| TMP 326.05 | Theology of Ecology | 4 |
| TMP 332.20 | Ethics of Ecology | 4 |
| TMP 332.19 | Human Rights of Migrants | 4 |
ThL in Biblical Theology
The Licentiate in Theology (ThL) with specialization in Biblical Theology is an advanced ecclesiastical degree program devoted to the in-depth study of Sacred Scripture as the foundational source of Christian faith and theology. The program forms students to engage the biblical texts with scholarly rigor, theological sensitivity, and ecclesial responsibility, in service of the Church’s mission of proclamation, teaching, and pastoral leadership.
The specialization offers two distinct yet complementary sub-specializations: Old Testament and New Testament. Both tracks provide advanced formation in exegesis and biblical theology, equipping students to interpret Scripture within its historical, literary, canonical, and theological contexts. Students are trained in the use of appropriate exegetical methods, critical engagement with contemporary biblical scholarship, and theological interpretation rooted in the unity of Scripture and the living Tradition of the Church.
The Old Testament sub-specialization focuses on the Hebrew Scriptures as the foundational witness to God’s covenantal relationship with Israel, attending to their historical development, literary forms, theological themes, and enduring significance for Christian faith.
The New Testament sub-specialization centers on the writings that bear witness to the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the emergence of the early Christian communities, with particular attention to Christology, ecclesiology, and the proclamation of the Gospel.
Rooted in the Ignatian tradition, the program fosters a disciplined attentiveness to the Word of God, encouraging students to integrate critical study with prayerful reflection and pastoral application. Graduates are prepared for teaching, research, preaching, and leadership in ecclesial and academic contexts, as well as for further advanced studies in biblical theology.
Purpose and Vision: The purpose of the specialization in Biblical Theology is to form competent and faithful interpreters of Sacred Scripture who can serve the Church through teaching, preaching, research, and pastoral ministry. Specifically, the program aims to:
- Provide advanced academic formation in biblical exegesis and theology within the Old and New Testaments;
- Develop students’ competence in critical methods, original languages, and theological interpretation of Scripture;
- Foster an integrated understanding of the unity and diversity of the biblical canon;
- Equip students to articulate the theological significance of Scripture for the life, mission, and doctrine of the Church;
- Prepare graduates for further specialization, academic teaching, and ecclesial service requiring advanced biblical competence.
OBLIGATORY LANGUAGE COURSES
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 395.21 | Biblical Greek III | 4 |
| TMP 395.22 | Biblical Greek IV | 4 |
| TMP 395.11 | Biblical Hebrew III | 4 |
| TMP 395.12 | Biblical Hebrew IV | 4 |
| TMP | Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TOTAL LANGUAGE CREDITS | 24 |
METHODOLOGY COURSES
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 392.05 | Research Writing and Methods for Theology | 4 |
| TMP 313 | Biblical Hermeneutics and Research Methods | 4 |
| TMP 314 | Textual Criticism | 4 |
PROPER COURSES IN THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 8 courses from any of the licentiate biblical course offerings during the semester.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 321 | Historical-Cultural Background to the OT | 4 |
| TMP 329 | Historical-Cultural Background to the NT | 4 |
| TMP 311.90 | The Pedagogy of the Psalms | 4 |
| TMP 311.92 | Theme of Repentance in Hosea | 4 |
| TMP 311.93 | Samuel-Kings: Succession Narrative | 4 |
| TMP 311.91 | Social Justice Issues in 8th Century BC Israelite Prophecy | 4 |
| TMP 312.70 | Book of Revelation | 4 |
| TMP 312.93 | Pneumatology in Johannine Literature | 4 |
| TMP 311 | Theology of the Old Testament | 4 |
| TMP 312 | Theology of the New Testament | 4 |
| TMP 322.10 | The Bible and People of God on the Move | 4 |
| TMP 312.90 | Women in Scriptures | 4 |
| TMP 315.03 | Biblical Perspectives on Ecology | 4 |
OPTIONAL COURSES OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 3 courses from any of the course offerings listed under the other specializations.
SEMINARS OR READING COURSES
In accordance with the distinctive academic approach of the Loyola School of Theology, seminar topics are individually designed and adapted to the specific research interests of licentiate students, rather than predetermined through standardized, fixed-course offerings.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 317.96 | Topics in Biblical Theology (Seminar/Reading Course I) | 4 |
| TMP 317.97 | Topics in Biblical Theology (Seminar/Reading Course II) | 4 |
| TMP 317.98 | Topics in Biblical Theology (Seminar/Reading Course III) | 4 |
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION AND TESINA
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 396.01 | Licentiate Comprehensive Examination | 26 |
| TMP 399.11 | Tesina Writing I | 30 |
| TMP 399.21 | Tesina Writing II | |
| TMP 396.11 | Tesina Proposal Defense | |
| TMP 399.41 | Tesina Oral Defense |
ThL in Systematic-Dogmatic Theology
The Licentiate in Theology with specialization in Systematic-Dogmatic Theology is an advanced ecclesiastical degree program dedicated to the rigorous and coherent study of the mysteries of the Christian faith as articulated in Scripture, Tradition, and the living Magisterium of the Church. The program aims to form theologians capable of critical, integrative, and faithful theological reflection that engages both the doctrinal heritage of the Church and the questions of the contemporary world.
Systematic-Dogmatic Theology seeks to understand, articulate, and deepen the Church’s faith by exploring the internal coherence of Christian doctrine and its significance for Christian life, ecclesial communion, and mission. Through specialized courses and seminars, students examine central theological themes such as revelation, Trinity, Christology, pneumatology, ecclesiology, sacramental theology, anthropology, soteriology, and eschatology, while engaging classical and contemporary theological sources.
Rooted in the Ignatian intellectual tradition, the program fosters a disciplined yet creative theological approach that integrates fidelity to the sources of faith, critical engagement with modern thought, and attentiveness to historical, cultural, and pastoral contexts. Students are trained to engage theological questions with methodological rigor, clarity of expression, and a sense of responsibility to the Church’s teaching mission.
The program prepares students for advanced theological research, teaching in ecclesiastical and academic institutions, and service to the Church in roles that require sound doctrinal competence and theological discernment.
Purpose and Vision: The purpose of the specialization in Systematic-Dogmatic Theology is to form theologians who are intellectually rigorous, ecclesially rooted, and pastorally attentive in their articulation of the Christian faith. Specifically, the program aims to:
- Provide advanced formation in the systematic and dogmatic articulation of Christian doctrine;
- Develop students’ capacity to engage critically with theological sources, methods, and contemporary debates;
- Foster a deep understanding of the unity and coherence of the mysteries of faith;
- Equip students for teaching, research, and theological service in academic, ecclesial, and formational settings;
- Cultivate theological reflection that serves the life, unity, and mission of the Church.
OBLIGATORY LANGUAGE COURSES
Latin, choice of either Hebrew or Greek, Modern Language
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 395.33 | Latin III | 4 |
| TMP 395.34 | Latin IV | 4 |
| TMP 395.21 | Biblical Greek I or III | 4 |
| TMP 395.22 | Biblical Greek II or IV | 4 |
| TMP 395.11 | Biblical Hebrew I or III | 4 |
| TMP 395.12 | Biblical Hebrew II or IV | 4 |
| TMP | Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TOTAL LANGUAGE CREDITS | 24 |
METHODOLOGY COURSE
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 392.05 | Research Writing and Methods for Theology | 4 |
PROPER COURSES IN THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 8 courses from any of the licentiate systematic course offerings during the semester.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 321.18 | St. Thomas Aquinas | 4 |
| TMP 322 | Topics in Ecclesiology | 4 |
| TMP 322.07 | Themes Related to Evangelization I | 4 |
| TMP 222.08 | Themes Related to Evangelization II | 4 |
| TMP 321.06 | Studies in Patristic Theological Themes | 4 |
| TMP 321.07 | Christian Witness for the First Centuries | 4 |
| TMP 308 | Theology of Ministry | 4 |
| TMP 321.26 | Theology of Hope | 4 |
| TMP 321.32 | Christology and Contextual Experience | 4 |
| TMP 321.23 | Theology of Religions | 4 |
| TMP 322.03 | New Ecclesiologies and Ministries in the Catholic Church | 4 |
| TMP 324 | Contemporary Theologians | 4 |
| TMP 326 | An Asian Contextual Theology of Sacred Sustainability | 4 |
| TMP 324.03 | The Theology of Karl Rahner | 4 |
| TMP 326.03 | Introducing Theologies of Migration | 4 |
| TMP 322.03 | Ecclesiology and Ministries in Migration Context | 4 |
| TMP 321.32 | Themes in Christology | 4 |
| TMP 325.20 | Buddhism | 4 |
OPTIONAL COURSES OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 3 courses from any of the course offerings listed under the other specializations.
SEMINARS OR READING COURSES
In accordance with the distinctive academic approach of the Loyola School of Theology, seminar topics are individually designed and adapted to the specific research interests of licentiate students, rather than predetermined through standardized, fixed-course offerings.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 321.96 | Dogmatics: Seminar/Reading Course I | 4 |
| TMP 321.97 | Dogmatics: Seminar/Reading Course II | 4 |
| TMP 321.98 | Dogmatics: Seminar/Reading Course III | 4 |
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION AND TESINA
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 396.01 | Licentiate Comprehensive Examination | 26 |
| TMP 399.11 | Tesina Writing I | 30 |
| TMP 399.21 | Tesina Writing II | |
| TMP 396.11 | Tesina Proposal Defense | |
| TMP 399.41 | Tesina Oral Defense |
ThL in Moral Theology
The Licentiate in Theology with specialization in Moral Theology is an advanced ecclesiastical degree program dedicated to the systematic and critical study of Christian moral life in the light of the Gospel, Sacred Scripture, Tradition, and the living Magisterium of the Church. The program forms theologians and pastoral leaders capable of engaging moral questions with intellectual rigor, theological depth, and pastoral sensitivity.
Moral Theology seeks to understand and articulate the Christian vocation to freedom, responsibility, and holiness within personal, social, and structural contexts. Through specialized courses and seminars, students explore fundamental moral theology, virtue ethics, conscience and moral discernment, social ethics, bioethics, sexual ethics, and emerging moral issues shaped by cultural, scientific, and technological developments.
Rooted in the Ignatian tradition, the program emphasizes discernment, conscience formation, and the integration of faith and life. Students are trained to engage moral theology not only as an academic discipline but also as a pastoral service that accompanies persons and communities in their concrete moral struggles and decisions. The program encourages dialogue between theology and the human sciences, philosophy, and social analysis, especially within Asian and global contexts.
Graduates are prepared for teaching, research, formation, and pastoral leadership, as well as for ecclesial ministries and institutions that require advanced competence in moral theological reflection and ethical decision-making.
Purpose and Vision: The purpose of the specialization in Moral Theology is to form theologians and pastoral leaders who can articulate and accompany the moral life of Christians with clarity, compassion, and responsibility. Specifically, the program aims to:
- Provide advanced formation in fundamental and special moral theology;
- Develop students’ capacity for critical moral reasoning and theological discernment;
- Foster a deep understanding of the relationship between freedom, conscience, virtue, and grace;
- Equip students to address contemporary moral issues with theological coherence and pastoral sensitivity;
- Prepare graduates for teaching, research, formation, and ethical leadership in ecclesial and academic settings.
OBLIGATORY LANGUAGE COURSES
Latin, choice of either Hebrew or Greek, Modern Language
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 395.33 | Latin III | 4 |
| TMP 395.34 | Latin IV | 4 |
| TMP 395.21 | Biblical Greek I or III | 4 |
| TMP 395.22 | Biblical Greek II or IV | 4 |
| TMP 395.11 | Biblical Hebrew I or III | 4 |
| TMP 395.12 | Biblical Hebrew II or IV | 4 |
| TMP | Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TOTAL LANGUAGE CREDITS | 24 |
METHODOLOGY COURSE
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 392.05 | Research Writing and Methods for Theology | 4 |
PROPER COURSES IN THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 8 courses from any of the licentiate moral course offerings during the semester.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 331.03 | Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life) | 4 |
| TMP 331 | Contemporary Moral Problems Related to Human Life | 4 |
| TMP 332.17 | Ethics of Death and Dying | 4 |
| TMP 332.05 | Themes Related to Christian Social Ethics I | 4 |
| TMP 332.06 | Themes Related to Christian Social Ethics II | 4 |
| TMP 332.05 | The Concept of Justice and Its Application to Contemporary Moral Issues | 4 |
| TMP 332.06 | The Social Justice Advocacy of Bartolome de las Casas | 4 |
| TMP 332.06 | Toward a Moral Paradigm for Environmental Sustainability | 4 |
| TMP 332.06 | Development and Application of the Just War Tradition | 4 |
| TMP 332.17 | Migration in Catholic Social Teaching | 4 |
| TMP 332.18 | Justice and Migration | 4 |
| TMP 332.19 | Human Rights of Migrants | 4 |
| TMP 332.08 | Moral Development | 4 |
| TMP 332.11 | Cross-Cultural Models for Christian Ethics | 4 |
OPTIONAL COURSES OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 3 courses from any of the course offerings listed under the other specializations.
SEMINARS OR READING COURSES
In accordance with the distinctive academic approach of the Loyola School of Theology, seminar topics are individually designed and adapted to the specific research interests of licentiate students, rather than predetermined through standardized, fixed-course offerings.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 332.96 | Christian Morality and Moral Education: Reading Course I | 4 |
| TMP 332.97 | Christian Morality and Moral Education: Reading Course II | 4 |
| TMP 332.98 | Christian Morality and Moral Education: Reading Course II | 4 |
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION AND TESINA
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 396.01 | Licentiate Comprehensive Examination | 26 |
| TMP 399.11 | Tesina Writing I | 30 |
| TMP 399.21 | Tesina Writing II | |
| TMP 396.11 | Tesina Proposal Defense | |
| TMP 399.41 | Tesina Oral Defense |
ThL in Migration Theology
The Licentiate in Theology with specialization in Migration Theology responds to the growing and enduring reality of migration in Asia, a phenomenon that continues to shape the social, cultural, economic, and ecclesial landscape of the region. Recognizing migration as a sign of the times, the program seeks to promote sustained theological reflection and pastoral competence in addressing the challenges and opportunities arising from human mobility.
In fidelity to the Church’s magisterial call articulated in Erga Migrantes Caritas Christi (EMCC, 71), which entrusts Catholic university faculties with the task of studying migration for the benefit of concrete pastoral service, LST thereby offers this specialized licentiate program in Migration Theology.
The program integrates biblical, theological, spiritual, pastoral, and socio-ethical perspectives on migration, equipping students to engage critically with the lived experiences of migrants, refugees, and itinerant peoples. Through specialized courses, students examine the scriptural foundations of a God who journeys with God’s people, contemporary theologies of migration, pastoral counseling and accompaniment, program management, justice and human rights concerns, and Catholic Social Teaching as applied to migration.
Designed to meet the diverse needs of lay pastoral workers, religious, and ordained ministers, the program also serves students of theology who wish to specialize in this crucial area of ecclesial concern. By combining academic rigor with pastoral relevance, the program forms leaders capable of shaping informed, compassionate, and effective responses to migration in both local and transnational contexts.
Purpose and Vision: The primary purpose of the program is to form theologically competent, spiritually grounded, and pastorally effective leaders who can respond to migration as a central concern of the Church’s mission today. Specifically, the program aims to:
- Promote systematic and contextual theological reflection on migration in the Asian setting;
- Equip pastoral workers with biblical, theological, and ethical frameworks for ministry among migrants and itinerant peoples;
- Develop skills in pastoral counseling, program planning, and leadership relevant to migration contexts;
- Foster advocacy grounded in justice, human rights, and Catholic Social Teaching;
- Bridge academic theology with concrete pastoral service to migrants at parish, diocesan, national, and regional levels.
OBLIGATORY LANGUAGE COURSES
Latin and 2 Modern Languages
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 395.33 | Latin III | 4 |
| TMP 395.34 | Latin IV | 4 |
| TMP | 1st Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 1st Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 2nd Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 2nd Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TOTAL LANGUAGE CREDITS | 24 |
METHODOLOGY COURSE
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 392.05 | Research Writing and Methods for Theology | 4 |
PROPER COURSES IN THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 8 courses from any of the licentiate migration course offerings during the semester.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 322.10 | The Bible and People of God on the Move | 4 |
| TMP 326.03 | Introducing Theologies of Migration | 4 |
| TMP 322.03 | Ecclesiology and Ministries in Migration Context | 4 |
| TMP 332.17 | Migration in Catholic Social Teaching | 4 |
| TMP 332.18 | Justice and Migration | 4 |
| TMP 332.19 | Human Rights of Migrants | 4 |
| TMP 367.06 | Pastoral Counseling for Migrants | 4 |
| TMP 357.07 | Spirituality in an Age of Mobility | 4 |
| TMP 351.12 | Management of Pastoral Programs in Migration | 4 |
OPTIONAL COURSES OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 3 courses from any of the course offerings listed under the other specializations.
SEMINARS OR READING COURSES
In accordance with the distinctive academic approach of the Loyola School of Theology, seminar topics are individually designed and adapted to the specific research interests of licentiate students, rather than predetermined through standardized, fixed-course offerings.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 326.96 | Migration (Reading Course I) | 4 |
| TMP 326.97 | Migration (Reading Course II) | 4 |
| TMP 326.98 | Migration (Reading Course III) | 4 |
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION AND TESINA
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 396.01 | Licentiate Comprehensive Examination | 26 |
| TMP 399.11 | Tesina Writing I | 30 |
| TMP 399.21 | Tesina Writing II | |
| TMP 396.11 | Tesina Proposal Defense | |
| TMP 399.41 | Tesina Oral Defense |
Course Descriptions
TMP 315.04 The Bible and People of God on the Move
The course explores some of the Scripture texts in which God’s people are presented as descendants of outsiders. In the New Testament, Jesus comes as a foreigner and offers a new perspective to discover in every encounter with the migrant something unique of God’s experience and to appreciate hospitality to the stranger as the pastoral challenge of our time.
TMP 326.03 Introducing Theologies of Migration
The course focuses on methodological approaches in doing a theology of migration. It begins with anthropological-sociological perspectives to understanding the migrants experiences, and then deals with samples of attempts at doing systematic theologies from the migrants contexts. Students will participate in the construction of theologies for and with the migrants.
TMP 367.06 Pastoral Counseling for Migrants
This is a course on the psycho-social interventions and pastoral care of migrant workers and their families. The targeted population is sorted out together with their all important issues for well-being, even as they are physically and emotionally separated from their own family members. The available interventions are critiqued, and the class explores other possible and effective service and care of them, both in their country of origin and job destinations. Derivation for personal strategies and plans of assistance in psychological, social and spiritual fields are derived and evaluated at the end of the course.
TMP 351.12 Management of Pastoral Programs in Migration
The course trains students in skills in pastoral planning, implementation and evaluation of programs with migrants and the families left behind. These programs include, though not exclusively, migration programs organized and implemented in the parish setting. The course includes as well training for advocacy and networking on migrants issues. The course will also offer possibilities of exposure to organizations and parishes involved in the migrant ministry.
TMP 332.18 Justice and Migration
The purpose of this course is to examine some of the ethical questions which arise from migration and to see what contribution the Christian social ethics tradition offers to migration management. In particular, the category of justice will be utilized as a promising development in social ethics. The course will focus, among others, on the perennial tension between the prerogative of the State to manage migration and the aspiration to migrate as an expression of the right to a more humane life. This tension is studied in the light of international law and the position of some ethical traditions. The development in the concept of justice, in particular distributive justice, is then considered, as well as the contribution of the concept of justice in the Christian tradition, to offer some elements for a more humane management of migration.
TMP 332.19 Human Rights of Migrants
The first part of the course examines the origin and development of human rights; it discusses its ethical foundation and examines some controversial aspects in the human rights discourse. It also presents the Church’s teaching on human rights. The second part is dedicated to the rights of migrants, in particular, to the analysis of the Migrant Workers Convention.
TMP 332.17 Migration in Catholic Social Teaching
The first part of the course traces the historical development of the teaching of the Church on the pastoral care of migrants, with particular attention to the major documents issued by the Popes and the Roman Curia. The second part will focus on the teaching of the Churches in Asia and on some thematic aspects.
ThL in Spirituality in General
The Licentiate in Theology with specialization in Spirituality (General Track) is an advanced ecclesiastical degree program that offers a comprehensive and integrative study of Christian spirituality in its historical, theological, and lived dimensions. This specialization provides a broad and solid foundation in spirituality as an academic discipline and as a vital dimension of Christian life, distinct from but complementary to other specialized tracks such as Spirituality and Pastoral Psychology and Spirituality and Leadership.
The program invites students to engage deeply with the sources, traditions, expressions, and practices of Christian spirituality, attending to their doctrinal foundations, historical development, cultural expressions, and contemporary relevance. Through a wide range of courses, students explore classical and modern spiritual traditions, mysticism, sanctity, vocational discernment, ecological and apostolic spirituality, and the relationship between spirituality, art, and human experience.
Rooted in the Ignatian tradition and attentive to the needs of the Church today, the General Track places particular emphasis on discernment, spiritual accompaniment, and the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. While maintaining academic rigor, the program integrates theological reflection with experiential learning, especially in areas related to retreat ministry and spiritual direction.
Designed primarily for students who seek a broad, foundational formation in spirituality, the program prepares graduates for further specialization, teaching, research, and diverse forms of pastoral and formational ministry within ecclesial and apostolic contexts.
Purpose and Vision: The purpose of the specialization in Spirituality (General Track) is to form theologically grounded and spiritually mature scholars and ministers who possess a comprehensive understanding of Christian spirituality and its role in the life and mission of the Church. The program aims to:
- Provide a systematic and integrative theological foundation for the study of spirituality;
- Deepen students’ understanding of the historical and contemporary expressions of Christian spiritual traditions;
- Cultivate competence in discernment, spiritual direction, and retreat ministry, especially within the Ignatian tradition;
- Enable students to articulate the relationship between doctrine, spirituality, and lived Christian experience;
- Prepare graduates for further specialization, teaching, research, and formational ministries in the Church.
OBLIGATORY LANGUAGE COURSES
Latin and 2 Modern Languages
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 395.33 | Latin III | 4 |
| TMP 395.34 | Latin IV | 4 |
| TMP | 1st Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 1st Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 2nd Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 2nd Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TOTAL LANGUAGE CREDITS | 24 |
METHODOLOGY COURSE
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 392.05 | Research Writing and Methods for Theology | 4 |
PROPER COURSES IN THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 8 courses from any of the licentiate spirituality course offerings during the semester.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 355 | History of Spirituality | 4 |
| TMP 355.05 | Mysticism | 4 |
| TMP 357a | Christian Sanctity: Integration of Dogma, Spirituality and Life | 4 |
| TMP 357.05 | Spirituality of Ecology | 4 |
| TMP 357.03 | Art and Spirituality | 4 |
| TMP 355.03 | Spirituality of Consecrated Life in the Light of Pope Francis’ Teachings and Contemporary Trends | 4 |
| TMP 359 | Dynamics of a Christian Vocation, Priestly and Religious Commitment | 4 |
| TMP 356.03 | Apostolic Spirituality | 4 |
| TMP 356.04 | Vocation and Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises | 4 |
| TMP 356.05 | Discernment and Spiritual Direction | 4 |
| TMP 356.07 | The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius: Structure and Dynamics | 4 |
| TMP 358.03 | Foundations for Directed Retreat | 4 |
| TMP 358.04 | Fundamentals of Directed Retreat-Giving | 4 |
| TMP 358.05 | Supervised Retreat-Giving Experience | 4 |
| TMP 358.06 | Giving the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius | 4 |
OPTIONAL COURSES OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 3 courses from any of the course offerings listed under the other specializations.
SEMINARS OR READING COURSES
In accordance with the distinctive academic approach of the Loyola School of Theology, seminar topics are individually designed and adapted to the specific research interests of licentiate students, rather than predetermined through standardized, fixed-course offerings.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 357.96 | Special Topics in Spirituality: Reading Course I | 4 |
| TMP 357.97 | Special Topics in Spirituality: Reading Course II | 4 |
| TMP 357.98 | Special Topics in Spirituality: Reading Course III | 4 |
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION AND TESINA
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 396.01 | Licentiate Comprehensive Examination | 26 |
| TMP 399.11 | Tesina Writing I | 30 |
| TMP 399.21 | Tesina Writing II | |
| TMP 396.11 | Tesina Proposal Defense | |
| TMP 399.41 | Tesina Oral Defense |
ThL in Spirituality and Pastoral Psychology
The Licentiate in Theology (ThL) with a specialization in Spirituality and Pastoral Psychology is an advanced ecclesiastical degree designed to form pastoral leaders, educators, and clinicians who integrate deep theological insight with psychological understanding and pastoral competence. The program prepares graduates to engage the complexities of human experience—emotional, relational, and spiritual—through a holistic and psycho-spiritual lens rooted in Gospel values and the mission of the Church.
This specialization draws from a robust theological foundation, the lived experience of ministry, and the psycho-spiritual approach pioneered by the Ruben M. Tanseco, S.J. Center for Family Ministries (RMT-CEFAM)—a ministry dedicated to family well-being, healing, and growth, integrating professional counseling skills with a recognition of God’s activity in people’s lives.
Purpose and Vision: The ThL in Spirituality and Pastoral Psychology aims to form ministers who can:
- Integrate theological reflection with an understanding of psychological realities in a way that respects the dignity and complexity of the human person.
- Provide pastoral care, spiritual accompaniment, and counseling that attend to the whole person—mind, heart, and spirit.
- Serve the Church’s mission of faith and the promotion of justice by fostering healing, resilience, and flourishing within individuals, families, and communities.
- Articulate and embody a pastoral theology of care that draws on Scripture, tradition, psychology, and contemporary human sciences in culturally sensitive ways.
OBLIGATORY LANGUAGE COURSES
Latin and 2 Modern Languages
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 395.33 | Latin III | 4 |
| TMP 395.34 | Latin IV | 4 |
| TMP | 1st Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 1st Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 2nd Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 2nd Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TOTAL LANGUAGE CREDITS | 24 |
METHODOLOGY COURSE
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 392.05 | Research Writing and Methods for Theology | 4 |
PROPER COURSES IN THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 8 courses from any of the pastoral counseling and spirituality course offerings during the semester.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 357.04 | The Psychological and Spiritual Perspectives of the Human Person | 4 |
| TMP 367 | Pastoral Psychology and Counseling | 4 |
| TMP 367.04 | Pastoral Counseling Practicum | 4 |
| TMP 399.50 | Psycho-Spiritual Integration on Character Formation | 4 |
| TMP 368 | Family Dynamics and Counseling Approaches | 4 |
| TMP 367.07 | Pastoral Group Process | 4 |
| TMP 368.05 | Advanced Pastoral Group Process and Counseling | 4 |
| TMP 368.06 | Explorations in Individual and Family Resilience | 4 |
| TMP 368.08 | Special Topics in Marital and Family Counseling: Child and Adolescent Counseling | 4 |
| TMP 368.03 | Marital/Premarital Dynamics and Counseling: A Psycho-Spiritual Approach | 4 |
| TMP 369 | Assessment and Initial Intervention of Individual and Relationship Disorders | 4 |
| TMP 368.09 | Family Spirituality Practicum | 4 |
| TMP 355 | History of Spirituality | 4 |
| TMP 356.03 | Apostolic Spirituality | 4 |
| TMP 356.04 | Vocation and Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises | 4 |
| TMP 356.05 | Discernment and Spiritual Direction | 4 |
| TMP 356.07 | The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius: Structure and Dynamics | 4 |
OPTIONAL COURSES OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 3 courses from any of the course offerings listed under the other specializations.
SEMINARS OR READING COURSES
In accordance with the distinctive academic approach of the Loyola School of Theology, seminar topics are individually designed and adapted to the specific research interests of licentiate students, rather than predetermined through standardized, fixed-course offerings.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 357.96 | Special Topics in Spirituality: Reading Course I | 4 |
| TMP 357.97 | Special Topics in Spirituality: Reading Course II | 4 |
| TMP 357.98 | Special Topics in Spirituality: Reading Course III | 4 |
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION AND TESINA
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 396.01 | Licentiate Comprehensive Examination | 26 |
| TMP 399.11 | Tesina Writing I | 30 |
| TMP 399.21 | Tesina Writing II | |
| TMP 396.11 | Tesina Proposal Defense | |
| TMP 399.41 | Tesina Oral Defense |
ThL in Spirituality and Leadership
The Licentiate in Theology with specialization in Spirituality and Leadership is an advanced ecclesiastical degree program designed to bring about transformational change in the perspective, character, and pastoral practice of Church leaders. It seeks to form leaders whose exercise of authority and service is deeply rooted in Christian spirituality, sound theology, and effective leadership practice.
The program enables students to engage critically and creatively with contemporary theories of leadership and management while grounding these insights in theological and spiritual reflection. Participants are guided to integrate theology, spirituality, leadership theory, and pastoral practice, fostering a leadership style that is reflective, discerning, collaborative, and mission-oriented.
Courses combine conceptual learning, theological-spiritual reflection, and experiential approaches, ensuring the integral formation of participants. Special attention is given to the nature, facets, and processes of leadership and management, and to their necessary convergence in pastoral contexts. Through this integration, students are equipped with practical leadership and management skills geared toward more effective and efficient service in ecclesial and apostolic communities.
Purpose and Vision: The primary purpose of the program is to form pastoral leaders capable of exercising leadership as a ministry of service, guided by Gospel values and sustained by a mature spiritual life. It aims to develop leaders who can:
- Integrate Christian spirituality and theological reflection with contemporary leadership and management practices;
- Exercise leadership with discernment, competence, and pastoral sensitivity;
- Foster collaborative, participatory, and mission-driven communities;
- Respond creatively and responsibly to the pastoral and organizational challenges facing the Church today.
The program is a joint endeavor of LST and East Asian Pastoral Institute (EAPI). Students admitted to this ThL program also participate in EAPI’s Pastoral Leadership and Management for Mission Program (PLMM) as residential (live-in) students from January to June.
Yearly, the EAPI houses around seventy men and women from different parts of the world laity, religious and clergy who live together as an international community, and take time to be in the programs that suit their specific needs for personal renewal, a spiritual pause and review of life, growth and greater effectiveness in their ministries as pastoral ministers and leaders of communities.
Students enrolled in this program may apply for partial scholarships the terms of which can be arranged with the Director of EAPI, through the following contact information: admission@eapi.org.ph; tel. no. + 63 (2) 8426-5901 to 03.
LST-EAPI also currently offers a civil degree Master of Arts major in Pastoral Ministry with a field of specialization in Pastoral Management.
OBLIGATORY LANGUAGE COURSES
Latin and 2 Modern Languages
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 395.33 | Latin III | 4 |
| TMP 395.34 | Latin IV | 4 |
| TMP | 1st Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 1st Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 2nd Modern Language Sem 1: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TMP | 2nd Modern Language Sem 2: Italian, French, Spanish or German | 4 |
| TOTAL LANGUAGE CREDITS | 24 |
METHODOLOGY COURSE
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 392.05 | Research Writing and Methods for Theology | 4 |
PROPER COURSES IN THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students should enroll the 6 leadership and management courses listed below plus 2 other spirituality courses. Course adjustments may be made in consultation with the VPAA.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 351.04 | Leadership: A Pastoral Approach | 4 |
| TMP 351 | Leadership in Context | 4 |
| TMP 351.08 | Leadership Ethics for Pastoral Care | 4 |
| TMP 322.11 | Leadership for Mission | 4 |
| TMP 351.06 | Management: A Pastoral Approach | 4 |
| TMP 351.05 | Management Skills for Pastoral Leaders | 4 |
| TMP 356.05 | Discernment and Spiritual Direction | 4 |
| TMP 355 | History of Spirituality | 4 |
| TMP 356.03 | Apostolic Spirituality | 4 |
| TMP 356.04 | Vocation and Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises | 4 |
| TMP 356.05 | Discernment and Spiritual Direction | 4 |
| TMP 356.07 | The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius: Structure and Dynamics | 4 |
OPTIONAL COURSES OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF SPECIALIZATION
Students may choose 3 courses from any of the course offerings listed under the other specializations.
SEMINARS OR READING COURSES
In accordance with the distinctive academic approach of the Loyola School of Theology, seminar topics are individually designed and adapted to the specific research interests of licentiate students, rather than predetermined through standardized, fixed-course offerings.
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 357.96 | Special Topics in Spirituality: Reading Course I | 4 |
| TMP 357.97 | Special Topics in Spirituality: Reading Course II | 4 |
| TMP 357.98 | Special Topics in Spirituality: Reading Course III | 4 |
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION AND TESINA
| CODE | COURSE TITLE | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| TMP 396.01 | Licentiate Comprehensive Examination | 26 |
| TMP 399.11 | Tesina Writing I | 30 |
| TMP 399.21 | Tesina Writing II | |
| TMP 396.11 | Tesina Proposal Defense | |
| TMP 399.41 | Tesina Oral Defense |
Course Descriptions
TMP 351.04 Leadership: A Pastoral Approach
This course provides the participants with an understanding of the distinctiveness and plurality of pastoral leadership and followership and test these understandings against their own experiences within the local cultural context.
TMP 351 Leadership in Context
This course provides the participants with insights on how the study of the context determines
one’s leadership style and help discern which approach to leadership is necessary for transformation and conversion at a particular time in history.
TMP 351.08 Leadership Ethics for Pastoral Care
This course provides the participants with ethical principles that would enable them to make compassionate decisions and take moral actions that can be considered as good and right in their cultures.
TMP 322.11 Leadership for Mission
This course provides the participants with a contemporary understanding of mission and church and how these should influence pastoral leaders attitudes, skills, and knowledge.
TMP 351.06 Management: A Pastoral Approach
This course provides the participants with present ecclesial paradoxes, theological foundations, organizational principles, and pastoral skills to enable them to effectively manage their ministries.
TMP 351.05 Management Skills for Pastoral Leaders
This course provides the participants with skills and best practices from the secular world to equip them to respond to new tensions related to leadership and management of resources.
TMP 356.03 Apostolic Spirituality
This course offers a theological exploration of apostolic spirituality in terms of its three-fold dynamic as conversion, commitment and communion. The apostolic orientation of each dynamic is considered from its biblical foundations, subsequent historical developments and its various anthropological, Christological, ecclesiological, sacramental and eschatological aspects. Since apostolic spirituality seeks to encounter God who labors in every person and in everything, the course concludes with a strategy of discernment to help persons grow as a contemplative in action today.
TMP 356.05 Discernment and Spiritual Direction
The course is a study of Ignatian discernment in the context of spiritual and retreat direction. It begins by clarifying the meaning of discernment and traces the development of the idea and practice of discernment in the Judaeo-Christian tradition. The course then studies the rules of Ignatian discernment as presented in Ignatius Spiritual Exercises and considers their applicability to concrete decision making situations (viz., vocation discernment, communal discernment). The course then concludes with a discussion of the process of maturing in both prayer and discernment.