It differs in at least two important ways. First, the SSD is a hybrid-format program. While most coursework takes place online, students are also required to physically attend two one-week residency sessions during the program. The combination of online engagement and face-to-face sessions utilizing multiple pedagogical modalities is vital and gives you the best of online learning and campus-based education. The hybrid approach with online learning sandwiched between residencies makes it possible for capable and gifted spiritual directors-to-be to participate. Work schedules, ministry responsibilities on weekends, and geographical distance often make multiple year, local programs problematic, if not impossible, for many interested persons.
Second, by design the SSD is a non-accredited program, unlike most undergraduate and graduate programs at colleges and universities, where you will earn grades and college credits. Although all credible programs involve intellectual rigor, we believe that spiritual direction (as care of souls) is not primarily an academic endeavor. We are convinced that the most appropriate environment for nurturing the call and developing the skills involved in becoming a spiritual director is not the academy but the community of faith. Both our online component and two weeklong residencies offer attentive mentoring and are done within the spirit of an intentional, supportive faith community.