​​​​​Essential Qualifications​​​

All religion teachers in Catholic high schools must:

• Be practicing Catholics with an active sacramental and faith life and a commitment to ministry in education

• Have a strong theological foundation in Catholic theology

• Continue theological and faith formation to include personal, spiritual, and psychological development
  

• Have a college transcript on file at the Department of Catholic Schools

• Have or be working toward religion certification (see Process of Certification ​for High School Religion Teachers)

• Have or be working toward an MA in theological studies, religious studies, religious education, or a related field from a Catholic institution

• Renew​ religion certification​ every four years as outlined in the Department of Catholic Schools catechetical certification website​
  

Special Considerations

All special consideration cases are evaluated by the Department of Catholic Schools. High school administrators should consult with the Department of Catholic Schools if a teacher who may be given a regular assignment to teach religion does not meet one or more of the essential qualifications.​

• Teachers with an MA in theology or a related field from a non-Catholic institution may need to supplement their education with additional coursework in Catholic sacramental and moral theology.

• Teachers with a BA in theology or a related field are required to earn an MA in theology or a related field, or obtain a Master Catechist Certificate.

• Teachers with a BA in a secular field are required to earn an MA in theology or a related field, or obtain a​ Master Catechist Certificate.

• Teachers coming from other dioceses are required to submit a transcript to the Department of Catholic Schools for coursework evaluation. The Director of Faith Formation and Religious Instruction at the Department of Catholic Schools determines if the teacher needs additional coursework.