Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology
The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) at Seton Hall University is the primary professional degree for men preparing for ordained ministry in the Roman Catholic Church. Designed especially for those discerning the priesthood, the program provides the comprehensive personal, academic, ministerial, and spiritual formation needed for a lifetime of service to the Church. Students receive extensive theological education that fully meets the standards outlined in the Program of Priestly Formation (Sixth Edition, 2022), ensuring readiness for ordination and ministry in parishes, dioceses, and the wider Catholic community.
Accreditation & Awards
"We invite you to the Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology that you might encounter the Lord in the very special way that this place affords."
Admissions Requirements
If you are discerning the Catholic priesthood and feel called to serve the Church, the first step toward priestly preparation and applying to the Immaculate Conception Seminary is to have the sponsorship of your bishop. We ask our applicants to work closely with their vocation director for their diocese before applying.
Men who are considering entering the seminary must be practicing Catholics in good standing, active in parish life, and able to demonstrate a genuine call to ordained ministry. We require a bachelor’s degree, including a minimum of 15 credits in religious studies and theology, and at least 30 credits in philosophy.
As part of the application process, you will be required to meet with a representative of the Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology for a personal interview. You will also need to complete an application and submit an autobiographical essay describing your faith journey. We require academic transcripts, sacramental certificates, and letters of recommendation from clergy.
Psychological and medical evaluations are part of our screening process. English language proficiency and readiness for academic, spiritual and pastoral formation are some additional requirements of prospective divinity students.
Deadlines
Deadline to apply Rolling
International Students Welcome!
Seton Hall welcomes applications from international students for admission into full-time graduate degree programs.
Curriculum Overview
The M.Div. degree program typically requires four academic years of full-time study for students who have completed all prerequisite courses. Students who need to complete prerequisites may take six academic years of full-time study to complete the program.
The 90-credit program includes coursework in the areas of biblical studies, historical studies, moral theology, pastoral theology and systematic theology. Students must also complete an annual retreat and take part in a “Foundational Field Experience,” which is a cognitive and experiential introduction to spiritual life.
During this year-long program, Divinity students explore movements in spirituality, Liturgy, instruction, faith-sharing and community prayer, among other elements.
-
100%
Students Surveyed Say They are Prepared for Service to the Church
-
100%
Students Surveyed Say Program is Academically Strong
-
92%
Students Surveyed Feel Empowered for Ministry
Preparing for the Priesthood in Inspiring Settings
ICSST is the major seminary for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Newark, educating those preparing to dedicate their life to the Church.
The Work of Priests
Priests are called to serve the people of God in a distinctive way, uniting pastoral care with sacramental ministry. At the heart of their vocation is walking alongside the faithful—especially within the parish—sharing in their celebrations, challenges, and everyday lives, much as Christ did. While their primary responsibilities center on spiritual leadership, many priests also use their diverse gifts in a variety of settings. Some teach or write, others serve as chaplains, engage in social outreach, or contribute their expertise in diocesan ministries such as administration, canon law, or tribunal work. In each role, priests bring their faith, compassion, and commitment to serving the Church and the wider community.
Our graduates make an impact in parishes and dioceses around the country.
Our Faculty and Students
Examining Hospitality in the Gospel of Luke
Fortin Bridges the Divide Between Philosophy and Biology
Pope Leo Appointments Rev. Pedro Chau as Auxiliary Bishop
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Seton Hall University is committed to providing students with the most current information on how to finance your graduate degree. A graduate degree is within your reach – a variety of options can help you finance your degree including scholarships, federal aid, graduate assistantships, and more.
-
50%
Amount Scholarships Can Reduce Cost of Degree
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I access additional FAQs?
Additional Resources
Priestly Formation Program
Seminary Library
Learning Outcomes
Theology Graduate Programs
Request More Information
Reverend Robert K. Suszko, M.B.A., M.Div.
Vice Rector & Business Manager
robert.suszko@shu.edu
(973) 761-9552
Office of Graduate Affairs
Loading ICSST General Inquiry Form ...
About Seton Hall
One of the country's leading Catholic Universities, Seton Hall University has been developing students in mind, heart and spirit since 1856.
Home to over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and offering more than 90 undergraduate programs and over 130 graduate programs, Seton Hall's academic excellence has been singled out for distinction by The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report and Bloomberg Businessweek.
Seton Hall's 58-acre campus in the quaint town of South Orange, New Jersey, is only 14 miles from New York City — offering students a wealth of employment, internship, cultural and entertainment opportunities. The University’s nationally recognized School of Law is located in nearby Newark, New Jersey. The Interprofessional Health Sciences (IHS) campus in the owns of Clifton and Nutley, New Jersey, houses the University’s College of Nursing and School of Health and Medical Sciences.
-
1856
Founded by James Roosevelt Bayley
-
14
Miles from New York City
-
90+
Career-Building Graduate Programs
