Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The programme combines theological foundations, the history and traditions of Christian spirituality, and practical formation in the skills of spiritual accompaniment. Typical topics include:

• Foundations of Christian Spirituality – biblical and historical perspectives on prayer, mysticism and spiritual formation.
• Prayer Traditions and Practices – examination of Ignatian, Benedictine, Eastern Christian and contemporary devotional practices and how they inform direction.
• Listening and Discernment – pastoral listening skills, accompaniment models, facilitating discernment and vocational reflection.
• Ethics and Professional Practice – boundaries, confidentiality, cultural sensitivity, and the ethical responsibilities of a spiritual director.
• Supervised Practice – guided placements or practicum where students offer spiritual direction under supervision and receive feedback on their practice.
• Contextual Studies – ministry contexts such as parish, school, hospital or retreat settings, and accompanying diverse populations.

Learning is delivered through seminars, small-group spiritual direction practice, reflective journals and supervised placement. The program is offered with flexible delivery modes to accommodate part-time students, including intensive on-campus blocks and online components.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an accredited undergraduate degree in theology, ministry, pastoral studies, counselling or a related discipline, or demonstrate equivalent professional experience in pastoral ministry. Additional requirements commonly include a sustained personal practice of prayer or spiritual life, a statement of purpose outlining vocational reasons for undertaking the course, and referees who can speak to the applicant's suitability for formation in spiritual direction.

Selection may also involve a short interview and the willingness to undergo any required background checks or compliance procedures for placement work. Where applicants do not hold a relevant degree, substantial professional experience in pastoral or community contexts will be considered.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles that involve spiritual accompaniment and formation. Common pathways include:

• Practising as a spiritual director or accompanier in parish, diocesan or independent settings.
• Leading retreats, workshops and prayer groups in churches, retreat centres and community organisations.
• Working in pastoral care roles within schools, aged-care, health or social services where spiritual support is required.
• Further study in theology, pastoral studies or supervision for those seeking chaplaincy or specialised pastoral counselling qualifications.

Many graduates combine spiritual direction with other ministry or professional roles; some establish part-time private practice while maintaining links with faith communities and formation programs.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University offers formation grounded in Catholic intellectual and pastoral traditions while engaging ecumenical perspectives, making it suitable for students from a range of Christian backgrounds. The university's theology and ministry staff bring a blend of academic expertise and practical pastoral experience, and the program emphasises supervised practice so students develop competence in real ministry settings.

ACU maintains connections with dioceses, religious institutes and community agencies across Australia, providing access to placement opportunities and professional networks. The course delivery is designed to accommodate working ministers and mature students through flexible timetabling and blended learning options.