St. Joseph Seminary Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Intellectual Formation There are 2 stages of intellectual formation at St. Joseph Seminary: Pre-Theology All seminarians are required to complete twenty-four (24) credits in philosophy either before or during their studies in theology. Should a seminarian complete his philosophy requirements during his studies in theology, he should remember that philosophy courses are considered as pre-requisites to theology and may not be used for credit for obtaining the B.Th. or M.Div. degree. That is to say, the twenty-four credits in philosophy are over and above the requirements of the theology degree. Ideally, a seminarian will have completed his philosophy requirements before beginning theology. In the event that the seminarian has not completed the philosophy pre-requisites, it is strongly advised that he complete them as soon as possible during the theology program. Subject to what follows, consideration should be given to completing some of the philosophy requirements during the summer break. Seminarians may satisfy many of their philosophy requirements by taking courses at Concordia University College of Alberta. Seminarians who have no university degree can complete a B.A. with a major in philosophy and, in so doing, can fulfill most of the philosophy requirements for priestly formation. Given the current norms for priestly formation of the English-speaking Bishops of Canada, the ideal philosophical formation would be as follows:    - History of philosophy: four, three-credit courses covering the Ancient, Medieval, Modern and Contemporary (Christian Existentialism) periods;
   - Systematic philosophy: four, three-credit courses concerning anthropology, epistemology, metaphysics and nature (cosmology). Theology In its partnership with the Seminary, Newman Theological College (NTC) pursues the intellectual formation in theology and pastoral reflection. In this formation, the Seminary places great value on fidelity to the Church's Magisterium. Further to the usual requirements of the M.Div. or B.Th. program, the candidate for priestly ministry must fulfil the Academic Requirements for Ordination which ensure a breadth of courses approved by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. Please refer to the Newman Theological College Course Catalogue for specific information on courses. Next: Pastoral Formationhttp://www.newman.edu/http://www.newman.edu/students.shtmlPastoral%20Formation.htmlshapeimage_2_link_0shapeimage_2_link_1shapeimage_2_link_2