The Faculty of Theology at the University of Malta, in collaboration with Carmelite Institute Malta, is offering again the Master of Arts in Spiritual Companionship a professional programme aiming to train and empower candidates in discovering and practising the art and profession of spiritual companionship. The course aims at responding to the need for the ongoing formation of pastoral ministers and school religious counsellors.  

The different study-units of the programme cover the following topics: Introduction to spirituality; Dynamics of growth and maturity in the spiritual life; Foundations of spiritual companionship; Foundational theories of psychology; Principles of spiritual discernment; Emerging contexts in spiritual companionship; Practicum in spiritual companionship; Psychospiritual growth; Counselling in a pastoral setting; Helping skills in spiritual companionship; Supervision in spiritual companionship; Ethical issues in spiritual companionship.

 The third year is wholly dedicated to the writing of the dissertation.

The course is recommended for those who wish to be involved in the spiritual formation of others by providing the service of spiritual companionship and direction. It is also recommended to those engaged in pastoral ministry, particularly family and youth ministers, chaplains, spiritual directors in schools, and group leaders.

Course duration: 6 semesters part-time (evening)  

Study mode: taught (2 years) and research (1 year)  

Opening next: October 2023 (offered every 2 years)  

Funding opportunities: Prospective students may apply for Annual bursaries [PDF] offered annually by the Foundation for Theological Studies, University of Malta or the Government of Malta. Upon successful completion of their studies, students may benefit from a tax credit of 70% of the full tuition fees under the Get Qualified Scheme.  

Recognition and Accreditation of Prior Learning (RPL): Prospective students who have achieved expertise and skills in the past through certified or experiential learning may gain access to the course and/or gain exemptions from parts of it through the University’s RPL process.  

Exit Awards: Students who do not proceed with the Course shall be eligible for the award of the Postgraduate Certificate at the end of the First Year or the award of the Postgraduate Diploma at the end of the Second Year.  

Queries may be sent by email to the course coordinator: Rev. Dr Charlò Camilleri.

Full details