Master of Religious Education
Rooted in Ignatian pedagogy, the master of religious education degree is for students eager to explore the religious, catechetical, and theological foundations of the Christian faith while learning skills in the art and practice of teaching and learning and curriculum development. This degree is ideal for theology teachers, catechists, directors of religious education, or those preparing to enter the field of faith formation.
Pursuing a master of religious education degree provides individuals with a set of multi-disciplinary perspectives and methodologies to enrich their practice while at the same time earning a master’s degree from an institution with a long-standing reputation for excellence in education and ministerial formation. This program is offered both on-campus and online. On-campus classes are available pending enrollment.
Post-Master's Certificate in Religious Education
If you already have a master's degree in theology or a related field and want to learn practices and develop skills to make you a more effective teacher, the post-master's certificate in religious education is designed for you. Learn more
Information Session
Wednesday, April 24, 2025 12:00 – 1:00 PM Central Time
Strengthen Your Ministry at LIM
At the Loyola Institute for Ministry (LIM), we cultivate a supportive community dedicated to critical inquiry, inclusivity, and responding to the signs of the times. Whether you're pursuing a career in ministry or religious education, our programs will equip you with practical skills and professional competence to make a meaningful impact. Join us and take the next step in your vocational journey.
Degree Overview
36 Credits
master of religious education
Loyola’s Master of Religious Education consists of 36 credit hours of religious education courses online taken as follows:
- Core courses (18 credit hours)
- Focus area courses (9 credit hours)
- Elective courses (6 credit hours)
- Capstone course (3 credit hours)
Check out the University Bulletin to view further curriculum information about Loyola's online Master of Religious Education degree. Click here to view a program worksheet.
The Loyola MRE Student Experience
Students and recent alumni share how the program has impacted their faith and careers.
Amy Fraler
I serve as a religious educator across a variety of contexts. It was the emphasis on practical theology which drew me to LIM; I loved its focus on the integration of theology into daily life through critical reflection. The process of critical reflection taught me to respond rather than react and to gather information through dialogue and encounter.
Beth Freeman
I am a full-time Theology teacher at an all-girls Catholic school. An "aha" moment I had while studying with LIM was when I realized how applicable the LIM courses were to my current teaching position. There was critical coursework that I could bring into my classroom immediately and share with other Theology colleagues.
Madeleine Heyoub
So much of our learning in LIM happens in discussion when we share our real-life ministry experiences with one another. I've come to realize that it is not at all by accident. It is the implicit curriculum of LIM teaching us that learning doesn't just happen from a book, but from relationships.