Academic Programs

The following academic institutions offer additional programs that may be of interest to former CVN volunteers:

Aquinas Institute - Part of the world-wide Order of Preachers, Aquinas Institute of Theology is a Catholic, Dominican-sponsored graduate school of theology and ministry in St. Louis, Missouri. Physically located in the middle of the country, our theological mission finds its home in the middle as well, as we strive to follow in the footsteps of our founder, St. Dominic, who intentionally centered himself in the study of the Word of God and placed himself in the middle of the Church so as to reach out to others in all directions. We offer multiple graduate and certificate programs in a variety of formats to accommodate the needs of our students. Situated adjacent to the large and beautiful campus of Saint Louis University, our students have access to all the academic resources of a large Jesuit university, while staying part of our close-knit community. As members of the Dominican family, we share life together in a variety of ways including liturgy and worship, meals, and social events. We are proud to waive the application fee for Catholic Volunteer Network alumni. Our Aquinas Scholars Program offers full tuition, merit-based scholarships for residential students in several programs. To apply or for more information, contact the admissions office at 314-256-8801 or admissions@ai.edu or visit www.ai.edu.

Canisus College - At Canisius, we value your commitment to serving others. We want to help you achieve the education you need to further your career and continue to make a difference. We offer every accepted graduate student, who completed a year of service, a 20% tuition discount.The Jesuit Mission Grant is available to any student who: has completed a full year of full time service, in an established volunteer service organization; approval of length of service and organization will be determined by Canisius College; students must be accepted into a graduate program of study at Canisius. If you would like to request more information or the application materials, you can contact Canisius College Graduate Admissions at: gradadm@canisius.edu.

Claremont Lincoln University - At CLU, we offer 3 innovative Master’s degrees in Ethical Leadership, Interfaith Action, and Social Impact. Our students develop capacities for compassionate leadership across social sectors. In an interconnected age, these individuals will engage in dialogue and collaboration across cultural, ideological, religious and economic perspectives. Significant scholarship opportunities are available for each of the programs. Application fee waivers are also available through the Office of Admission. Please contact admission@claremontlincoln.org or 909-667-4485 for more information.

College of William and Mary - Masters of Accounting - You’ve spent the last few years helping others. This year, let us help you launch a meaningful career - Help worthy organizations thrive: identify problem areas and offer solutions; Act as financial steward: help hardworking boards invest wisely; Ensure that every charitable donation is used well - How? Understand the financial picture. At the W&M Master of Accounting program, we bring students from all over the world and from all walks of life together to achieve a common goal: become financial services professionals who make a difference. Non-accounting majors complete the program in ONE YEAR. MAcc program scholarships for Catholic Volunteer Network alumni and application fee waivers are available. For more information, contact Martha Howard, Sr. Associate Director, Master of Accounting program, 757-221-2875, martha.howard@mason.wm.edu.

Creighton University - The Schlegel Center for Service and Justice (SCSJ) is now accepting applications for the Graduate Assistantship program. The SCSJ graduate assistant is a position designed to give graduate students (particularly those individuals pursuing Master’s degrees in Ministry, Christian Spirituality, or Negotiation and Conflict Resolution a chance to develop leadership and proficiency in faith/justice ministry as an integral member of the SCSJ team. Past Graduate Assistants have primarily worked with the Service & Justice Trips program, but have also worked with the Weekly Service program, office Communications Team, Ignatian Advocacy Team, Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice delegation, and office fundraising. Compensation includes either partial or full tuition depending on the graduate program, stipend, and numerous opportunities for professional development. Check out the full position description for more information. If you have any questions about the SCSJ Graduate Assistant position, please contact Kelly Tadeo Orbik, Associate Director of the SCSJ.

DePaul University - DePaul University - The Division of Mission and Ministry’s Frédéric Ozanam Scholarship Program, begun in the fall of 2004, provides full-time graduate tuition for former post-graduate volunteers who lead lives of service inspired by Sts. Vincent de Paul, Louise de Marillac and Blessed Frederic Ozanam. The Division of Mission and Ministry looks for candidates who are immersed in the Vincentian tradition and live out that charism, strive for social justice in their work and seeking educational opportunities to further their commitment to serve those on the margins. Scholarship recipients promote the Vincentian mission through service to the Chicago and DePaul communities, and scholarships are renewable for up to three years contingent on meeting program requirements. The Frédéric Ozanam Scholarship Program does not cover doctoral-level tuition costs. For more information visit: mission.depaul.edu

Fordham University - Fordham University Graduate School of Religion and Religious Education (GRE) is a school of ministry and pastoral leadership committed to cultivating academic competence, scholarly research, and ministerial skills in religious education, pastoral counseling, spiritual care, spirituality, and pastoral studies. In accordance with its Jesuit Catholic tradition, GRE students integrate academic knowledge with personal wisdom, and serve faith communities and society as committed and compassionate leaders. GRE students and graduates are actively serving in a variety of contexts; for example, parishes, spiritual direction and retreat centers, chaplaincy offices, licensed mental health counseling clinics, Catholic schools, community organizing, faith-based not for profit organizations, Jesuit universities, and diocesan offices around the world. GRE offers a 50% tuition waiver to CVN alums and current full-time faith-based leaders, teachers, and church workers. For more information, visit http://fordham.edu/gre or email GREadmit@fordham.edu.

The Franciscan School of Theology (FST) offers three primary graduate degrees: The Master of Theological Studies, The Masters of the Arts, and The Master of Divinity. Additionally, FST offers a Non-Degree program where you may take individual courses, do sabbatical study, or obtain certificates in Theological Studies or Priestly Formation. FST is the ONLY graduate school of Franciscan theology and spirituality in North America. The curriculum offered at FST provides an interdisciplinary education with a theological foundation, preparing students for careers in education and professional ministry, as well as providing opportunities for enhanced knowledge of our Christian faith, particularly in the Franciscan tradition. This tradition is committed to embodying Franciscan theology in a religiously and culturally diverse world and to fostering concern for those on the margins of society. Moreover FST, is affiliated with the University of San Diego, which gives FST students access to a broad range of graduate courses at USD, including courses offered in the School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) and in the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies. Scholarships are available. www.fst.edu.

Illinois State University - Applied Community & Economic Development (ACED) Fellows Program at Illinois State University- The ACED Fellows Program at Illinois State University is designed for those with a dedicated history of service experience to take their careers to the next level. All ACED Fellows receive a 100% tuition waiver plus stipend, in addition to a guaranteed graduate assistantship in the first year of studies followed by a professional internship in the second year. Students pursue a master’s degree in one of five degree programs (anthropology, applied economics, kinesiology and recreation, political science, or sociology). The interdisciplinary curriculum covers a range of topics, including project design and management, grant writing, and other subjects in administration and planning. The ACED Fellows Program includes generous financial support, a truly interdisciplinary classroom, real-world experience, and individual attention. ACED Fellows must have at least one year of full-time experience (1,700 hours) in community development or social services—as either a paid professional or a volunteer—prior to starting classes. For more information, please visit http://stevensoncenter.org or call 309-438-7090.

Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley - The Jesuit School of Theology (JST) in Berkeley is a professional theological school faithful to the intellectual tradition and apostolic priority of the Society of Jesus. JST is committed to social justice, the culturally contextualized study of theology, academic excellence, and the formation of leaders for the church of the 21st Century. Dedicated to inter-religious learning and dialogue, we are one of eight theological seminaries in the consortium of the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) in Berkeley, California. Alongside excellent Jesuit training at JST, students can also take courses throughout the GTU and at the University of California at Berkeley. Students are able to study for the Master of Divinity (MDIV), the Master of Theological Studies (MTS), and in conjunction with the GTU, the Master of Arts in Theology (MA). Each year many former volunteers discern a call to go deeper into ministry, faith, theological study, and service through a degree program at JST. Our alumni go on to serve as: teachers, campus ministers, non-profit administrators, pastoral associates, community organizers, chaplains and retreat center directors. JST offers several full-tuition Presidential Scholarships for incoming Master of Divinity degree students. Additionally, JST awards up to 90% tuition grants for all degree programs.Visit www.scu.edu/jst for more information or contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@jstb.edu or toll free at (800) 824-0122.

Loyola University New Orleans - Pursue graduate study and practical ministry experience at Loyola University New Orleans - a great Jesuit university located in a great Catholic city…for FREE! Work with University Ministry on retreats and Christian Life Communities at Loyola in exchange for tuition for a Loyola Institute for Ministry master's degree in pastoral studies or religious education that is trans-formative and firmly rooted in Catholic theology and Ignatian spirituality. Room and board may also be available if you wish to serve as a residence hall chaplain. For more information, please see http://mm.loyno.edu/jesuit-center/university-ministry-internship

Marquette University - The Trinity Fellowship was created at Marquette University and reflects the university’s mission to promote a life of faith and to develop leadership in service to others. Marquette is a Catholic, Jesuit university in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, where Trinity Fellows work to promote social and economic justice while earning a master’s degree in one of 15 fields of study. Trinity Fellows complete a master’s degree in 21 months, while serving in substantial, meaningful roles within a nonprofit or public organization for the entirety of their fellowship. Fellows are selected based on their academic achievement, passion for service and social justice, and leadership. They receive a generous financial package that including a full-tuition scholarship and monthly stipend. Fellows are a part of an interdisciplinary cohort which enhances the understanding and application of complex issues faced in the classroom and the field. Fellows participate in personal and professional reflection and professional development opportunities, and graduate prepared to lead and be the difference in their communities. For more information, visit http://www.marquette.edu/trinity-fellows.

St. Bernard's School of Theology and Ministry - St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry, a Roman Catholic graduate and professional school of theology, is a leader in New York State in assisting men and women to answer their call to faithful and loving service. Opened as a Roman Catholic Seminary in 1893 and restructured into an Institute for Theological and Ministerial Studies in 1981, St. Bernard’s forms students academically, interpersonally, and spiritually. The school offers a Master of Arts in Theological Studies, a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies, a Master of Divinity and continuing education opportunities for those seeking professional training, personal enrichment, or a deeper understanding of their faith. Financial aid and scholarships are always available. For more information about St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry, please email admissions@stbernards.edu or visit www.stbernards.edu.

Saint John’s School of Theology & Seminary - The Volunteer Corps Scholarship is available to those who served in a Catholic volunteer corps programs. Volunteers who successfully completed a volunteer program and receive a letter of recommendation from their supervisor, will be considered for a scholarship of 75%-100% for full-time studies in the Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies, or Master of Arts in Ministry program. In addition to the scholarship, Saint John's School of Theology and Seminary offers several work awards, graduate assistant ships, or ministerial residency programs to full-time, degree seeking students. Visit Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary website: www.CollegevilleMN.com for more information and contact our admission team at gradschool@csbsju.edu.

Saint Joseph's College Online - Saint Joseph's College of Maine was founded in 1912 by the Sisters of Mercy. At the heart of Saint Joseph's College is a Catholic liberal arts tradition and educational mission for men and women of all faiths and all ages. In 1976, Saint Joseph's introduced distance education to serve the needs of those who seek higher education through off-campus study. Graduate degrees currently being offered include: Master of Arts in Theology, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Education, Master of Health Administration, Master of Science in Nursing, and Master of Accountancy, as well as many graduate certificate options. CVN alumni are able to receive a waiver of the new enrollee applications fee (currently $50) and a tuition discount of 10-15%. Learn more about this program at: http://online.sjcme.edu/.

Saint Joseph's University - If you have completed at least one year of full-time service in an established volunteer service organization, you are eligible for a 20% tuition discount, with no application fee, on all master’s level graduate degree and certificate programs. Choose from graduate programs and certificates like: MBA, Education M.S., Organization Development Leadership M.S., Health Administration M.S., Educational Leadership M.S. and more. Learn more here: https://www.sju.edu/admission/graduate/mission-discount

University of Dayton - GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS at the University of Dayton –a Catholic and Marianist Institution. Share your faith ministering to college students while pursuing a Masters in Theology or Pastoral Ministry. Serve undergraduate students by journeying with them to cultivate faith, foster spiritual growth, and form Christian leaders through spiritual mentoring and discipleship, leading small groups, facilitating retreats, planning worship, coordinating service and justice initiatives, and more. Work alongside seasoned campus ministers and engage in holistic ministerial formation. Positions for the upcoming year will be comprised of unique portfolios that include a combination of the following: Residence Life Ministry, Retreats, Liturgy, Service and Justice, and Vocational Discernment ministries. Tuition, stipend, and housing are provided. Application and information at https://www.udayton.edu/ministry/ga_program/index.php or from Kelly Adamson, 937-229-2574. Applications are due February 1.

University of Notre Dame - The Master of Divinity Program at the University of Notre Dame offers comprehensive formation for professional ministry, preparing students for service and leadership in the Church. All admitted lay students receive full-tuition scholarships and generous living stipends. Academic formation includes the study of theology and ministry with one of the largest and most renowned theology faculties in the world. During three years of study, lay students, alongside seminarians, also engage in three years of mentored field education, drawing from a wide array of ministry placement options and engaging in seminars for theological reflection on their ministerial experiences. Lay students form intentional community and commit to comprehensive human and spiritual formation, incorporating weekly community formation nights, regular one-on-one formation meetings, spiritual direction, retreats, and days of reflection. All graduates benefit from a 100% placement rate after graduation. Contact us at 574.631.4256 or mdiv@nd.edu, or visit our web site at THEOLOGY.ND.EDU/MDIV. Following a pre-application process, the application deadline is January 2.

University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs - The University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA) is one of the nation’s most comprehensive professional schools for public service. GSPIA offers master’s degrees and doctoral degrees specifically designed for students interested in public-interest careers, and prepares students to take on leadership roles in nonprofit organizations, charities, government agencies, and socially responsible private-sector organizations. The School offers highly respected programs in nonprofit management, urban affairs and planning, energy and environment, human security, and many other fields, from both a domestic and an international perspective. GSPIA seeks students who want to work to improve the human condition and show respect for human dignity across the globe. All CVN alumni qualify for an automatic application fee waiver. For more information, visit www.gspia.pitt.edu or email gspia@pitt.edu.

University of San Francisco - The University of San Francisco has openings for Resident Ministers. These live-in positions are part-time (up to 15 hours per week), ten month appointments, that begin in August and include work in the University Residence Halls and with the programs of the University Ministry Office. A Bachelor's degree is required. This is an excellent opportunity for those working toward a master's degree in theology, ministry, education, or a related field, and for those with ministerial/volunteer experience that would effectively transfer to the mission and work of a Jesuit University. Compensation includes University Housing, University Meal Plan, and a monthly $100 stipend. For more information please visit http://www.usfca.edu/University_Ministry/Resident_Ministers/ or contact Angelica Quiñonez (anquinonez@usfca.edu & 415-422-6796). To apply please visit http://www.usfjobs.com.

University of St. Thomas School of Law - The University of St. Thomas School of Law Dean’s Service Scholarship program is available to any admitted applicant to our law school who has completed or is scheduled to complete a service commitment (through a term of one year or more) with a CVN program, is guaranteed a 20% renewable three-year scholarship. Service scholars also are eligible for additional dean's scholarship awards ranging from 20% to 80%. No additional scholarship application is required for the Service Scholarship award, but applicants must include with his or her application a statement of service indicating his or her service period. Applicants may be asked for documentation verifying the completion of the service commitment. CVN volunteers and alumni can apply for admission and pay no application fee at www.lsac.org.