Spiritual Direction Certificate: FAQs

Who can apply to this program?

Anyone who exhibits the following may apply:
1. Deep appreciation for the Catholic-Christian spiritual tradition;
2. Desire to help others on the path of spiritual development, in their relationship with God;
3. Ability to undertake a systematic course of education;
4. Availability to dedicate 6-9 hours weekly to the online courses, and 5 days (including travel) twice during the program for the residencies.
5. A history of receiving regular spiritual direction.

What do I need to do to apply?

1. Fill out your application, found under the Application menu link. This application includes a $25 application fee.
2. Request your recommendation letters: one from your current Spiritual Director and two personal recommendations, making sure one recommendation is from your pastor or minister.
3. Once all paperwork is received, you will be contacted for an interview.

I don’t live in the United States, can I still take this program?

Yes! The program is open for qualified applicants regardless of residence. (That is one of the advantages of an online program.) But, it is important to keep in mind that essential to the certificate program are the two, on-site residencies. In these residencies, students come together with one another and with faculty to develop critical interaction skills. There are important opportunities to take advantage of the learning community.

Can I take the program if I’m not really interested or not sure about becoming a spiritual director?

The program does give helpful and concrete information about this ministry of spiritual direction which often serves to help a person see their fit for this ministry. An applicant should have an interest in this field and be willing to commit time and prayer to discerning their call to it during the time they are in the program. A select number of students may go through the program as auditors. They would not receive a certificate of completion of the Spiritual Direction Program but do get access to the material of the course(s) they are auditing. 

Do I need to purchase any materials for the courses?

The cost of the courses and residencies covers all learning materials. Book extracts and articles are included in the online classroom, though on occasion reprinting rights may necessitate students to buy a particular text. These books are easily found online at low cost, on average.  *Also, if a student finds a particular book helpful, he or she may elect to purchase their own printed copy. 

What time are classes held?

The courses of this program are held in an asynchronous format- meaning that you do the coursework on your time around your schedule. There are weekly and sometimes bi-weekly deadlines to submit coursework. 

How many hours per week should I set aside for coursework?

Students should expect to spend, on average, between 6-9 hours a week to complete coursework. This includes watching videos, readings, writing discussion posts and completing assignments.

Is there anything else I need to know?

1. All courses are fully online, in eight-week modules, and asynchronous (i.e. students complete weekly coursework at a time of their own choosing). 
2. Each course requires on average about 6 – 9 hours of work per week.
3. The skills-related courses (SDC 300 and SDC 500) involve some group work via video conferencing and include a required four-day residency.
4. None of the SDC Program courses carry transferable credit to the degree programs of Divine Mercy University.