Course Description & Learning Objectives

Course Description

Supervised practice of ministry (SPM) and field education (FE) are integral parts of the UDTS curriculum. The SPM settings and FE courses provide numerous opportunities for seminary students to integrate theological reflection and pastoral leadership practice. At the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary, SPM is viewed as a formative experience where each student, with the guidance and support of faculty, trained supervisors, and committed laity, can develop the skills and capacities for a life of joyful service to Christ.

Field education serves several major purposes which may not be met by other parts of the ministry learning process. Students are required to integrate their classroom knowledge with daily practices and experiences and make meaning of that integration through purposeful reflection. Students build experience and skills through supervised practice with the guidance of a supervisor-mentor. Students explore, affirm, and develop their gifts for service to the people of God. Finally, students can test and further develop an understanding of their own call to ministry through inner reflection and confirmation and feedback from others within the ministry setting.

Course Learning Objectives

Upon completion of Supervised Practice of Ministry, students will be able to:

1. Integrate theological reflection and the practice of Christian ministry
2. Develop skills and capacities for faithful and joyful Christian ministry
3. Apply a holistic understanding of the pastoral vocation wherein ministry skills, relationships, personal spirituality, and self-care are held in a creative and faithful balance