Frequently Asked Questions

You have questions, we have answers.


When are classes offered?

Courses are offered through weekly, synchronous (live), virtual classes. Certain classes are available for in-person delivery for students who prefer to come to campus.

I don't live in Vancouver. Can I study from a distance?

Yes. Synchronous video of the class is available to all students and course work can be done through our learning management system, Canvas. Students are able to engage with the professor and classmates as the classes will be synchronous (live) rather than pre-recorded lectures.

If I come from a distance, is there somewhere that I can stay overnight on campus?

Yes, distance students often rent rooms at Carey Centre, which is across the street from St. Mark's College.

How long will it take me to complete a Master's degree?

The length of time for completion of a Master's degree depends on how students schedule their course load. Typically, a graduate degree can be completed in 3-4 years. A majority of our students are employed full-time and this often influences how they space out course loads. 

If a student annually takes two (2) courses in fall, two (2) courses in winter and one (1) course in summer term, they will be able to finish their programs in 3 years.

I want to take a course but do not intend to pursue a graduate program. Can I audit a course? 

Yes, many of our credit courses can be taken as audit courses. Auditing a course allows a student to take a class without seeking a grade or credit for a course. Students are expected to do the readings in order to prepare for in-class sessions. Students who audit a course do so for the purposes of self-enrichment and academic exploration. To discuss registration in a course as an auditing student, contact an Admissions Counsellor.

I do not have a Bachelor's degree. Can I still apply for graduate program?

Yes. Applicants without an undergraduate degree may apply as non-traditional learners. Under special circumstances, some students may be admitted without a first degree at the discretion of the Dean of Theology. Such applicants must write a history explaining how their work, volunteering, leisure activities, courses have contributed to their learning and preparation to take graduate theological courses. The Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada limits the number of students admissible without a first degree to a specific percentage per program.

Do you have a course catalogue available?

Yes. All available courses are listed on our website or you can view the PDF Course Catalogue.

Is financial assistance available for graduate students?

Yes. Students are eligible for government loans and St. Mark's College has scholarships available. Meet with our Financial Aid Officer to explore ways to fund graduate education.

When are the application deadlines?

St. Mark's College offers year-round admissions. Apply at anytime. The start dates for each semester will dictate when a student can begin the first class, if they are accepted. 
Semesters: Fall (September), Winter (January) or Summer (April)

What is the right program for me?

Deciding which program is right for you can be a daunting decision. St. Mark’s offers programs in Pastoral Studies, Pastoral Ministry for the Permanent Diaconate, Catholic Educational Leadership, Religious Education, and Theological Studies, each with a mix of core and concentration courses.

Review each program
and contact one of our Admissions Counsellors to discuss the program options and find out which is the best fit for you.




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