Associate Director, Dr. C. Vanessa White
The IBCS Master of Theology Program is the only graduate theology program in the western hemisphere taught from a Black Catholic perspective. Established in 1980, its curriculum features interdisciplinary courses that incorporate Black approaches, critiques, and contributions to systematic and pastoral theologies, youth and pastoral ministry, aesthetics, philosophy and education. Set in the context of IBCS academics, prayer, worship, and community life, the Degree program forms students for theologically and culturally competent service as ordained, religious or lay ecclesial ministers in the Black community and Church at-large. The Degree program also attracts transient graduate students and ministers seeking to expand, enhance and enrich their understandings of culture and faith by exploring Black Catholic traditions and their particular meanings for Black Life in the U.S. and Pan African world.
Continuing Education and Enrichment (C&E) Course Offerings
Ms. Valerie Shields, M.A.R.S., Interim Associate Director
C&E Programs provide lifelong learning and spiritual formation for pastoral leaders, clergy, religious, administrators, teachers and others who minister with Black communities or serve in multi-cultural settings. These featured courses offer unique opportunities for students to grow in their understandings of Black Catholicism and its impact on their ministry, community and the Church at-large. Students are graded on a pass/fail basis and will receive 1.5 CEUs for each course successfully completed. There is a limit of 15 students per class unless otherwise noted.
NOTE: The Summer 2026 C&E course list is currently being developed and will be posted soon.
WATCH THIS SPACE FOR 2026 COURSES
Week 1: June 29 – July 3, 2026
Week 2: July 6 – July 10, 2026
Week 3: July 13 – July 17, 2026
Applicants will be able to access the 2026 C&E program application at https://gradapply.xula.edu/apply/.