The Institute runs a five year program made up of two year propaedeutic Philosophy program of at least 120 ECTs, and a three year basic-level theology program of at least (180 ECTS or comparable formative credits). In addition, the candidate for the Catholic priesthood would undergo a ministerial year after completing the basic theology program. Hence, the Institute runs a five-year program for theology that leads to the award of the Bachelor of Theology Degree to successful candidates (relevant and preparatory two years philosophical studies and three years theological studies). In addition, the candidate for Catholic priesthood would complete the required Ministerial Year of studies, which is after the five-year basic level course of studies for the priesthood, that concludes with the granting of a special diploma in Pastoral Theology.
The years of Theological Studies for a Bachelor’s degree in Theology are four years broken into eight semesters which terminate with the Bachelor of Theology at the end of the fourth year. For candidates aspiring for the Sacred Priesthood, an extra year, referred to as the Ministerial Year is organized. This Ministerial Year culminates with a certificate on ministries presented to the candidates which is equivalent to a diploma. It is presupposed that the student is admitted to theological studies after the years of studies in Philosophy which should have provided the basic foundation for a deeper understanding of the plenitude of truth. “A proper philosophical training is vital, not only because of the links between the great philosophical questions and the mysteries of salvation which are studied in theology under the guidance of the higher light of faith, but also vis- a-vis an extremely widespread cultural situation which emphasizes subjectivism as a criterion and measure of truth: Only a sound philosophy can help candidates for the priesthood to develop a reflective awareness of the fundamental relationship that exists between the human spirit and truth, that truth which is revealed to us fully in Jesus Christ.
During the course of theological studies, candidates for the priesthood will be exposed to annual programmes organized by the Institute to give basic knowledge of current theological trends and new insights emanating from the Church’s Magisterium as well as open the minds and hearts of students to a critical awareness of the demands of priestly life and ministry in the contemporary world. These programmes will come through seminars, symposia, lectures and colloquia organized on a regular basis.
At the moment, the minimum requirement for admission of students for theological studies in the institute is the possession of a Bachelor in Philosophy from any Catholic Major Seminary in Nigeria or its equivalent from any recognized ecclesiastical or secular institution.
Every student is required to attend the required lectures in his level of studies, without exception. No student is at liberty to choose and pick courses without the prior consent of and consultation with the Dean of Studies and the Director of the Institute. All theological courses are compulsory and required for the computation of the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) that yields a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology.
A minimum average of 50% in principal subjects (Scripture, Dogma, Moral Theology, and Pastoral Theology) through all the years of theological studies.
| S/N | description | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Cumulative Scores | 20% |
| 2. | Research Paper | 20% |
| 3. | Written Paper | 50% |
| 4. | Oral | 10% |
| Total | 100% |