Completing Coursework

One of the great advantages to students of San Joaquin Schools for Ministry (SJSM) is the opportunity for students to participate in a formation program that is more flexible than one might experience in a residential seminary. This is especially true for those who are juggling between full time jobs, family and ministry.

However, I have recently become aware that there are some students who are taking advantage of this flexibility in a way that conflicts with our goals for academic formation. Specifically, it has come to my attention that some students have not completed assignments in certain courses. While there are various reasons why this might happen, it is important that students understand the ramifications of incomplete coursework.

The most common misunderstanding is regarding audited courses. Students enrolled through SJSM, who are also in formation for Holy Orders, MUST complete ALL assignments whether or not they are taking the class for credit or audit. Regardless of whether you are in formation for the diaconate or the priesthood, whether you are in an accredited or non-accredited formation program, all assignments must be completed according to the course syllabus. This is true for online coursework, also. [Note: All online coursework must be approved by the dean of SJSM, and/or the Commission on Ministry (COM) prior to taking the course. And, a process of academic accountability for auditing those courses must also be approved.]

Auditing is offered to those in diaconal formation in order to relieve the financial burden of the courses NOT to relieve the academic burden of completing the coursework. Those in formation for the priesthood may only audit with prior approval (usually due to financial considerations) and always with the understanding that the coursework must be satisfied.

Please be aware that prior to ordination the registrar and dean of SJSM are required to make a report and recommendation to the Commission on Ministry stating that all coursework has been completed. Be advised that no such final report and recommendation will be offered to COM for students with incomplete courses, including audited courses.

If you have any questions or concerns about this, please contact me.

Fr Van McCalister
Dean