Field Education and Internships
Overview of Field Education at IPS
About IPS: The Institute of Pastoral Studies (IPS) educates adults for professional ministry, spiritual development and faith-based leadership in other professions. Through their course of study and their spiritual formation, students develop real-world knowledge and skills in theological reflection, in ministerial practice and in ethical judgment. (www.luc.edu/ips)
6 Degree Programs offered through the Institute of Pastoral Studies (IPS)
Every degree requires one or two semesters of field experience, where students exercise and develop degree-related leadership skills in community agencies under supervision.
During Field Ed semesters:
Typical hours per semester at a field site: 250-350 (depending on degree)
Average weekly commitment at site: 2-3 days; 12-15 hours
Required on-site supervision: 1 hour per week focused on student’s learning goals
Additional IPS group supervision: Student participates in 2 ½ hours per week* small group reflection seminar (5-6 students) led by faculty supervisor
*MAPC pastoral practicum meets every other week
| Degree | Field Ed/Internship Requirements | IPS Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| M.Div. | 500 hour field experience | 2nd yr Fall/Spring | 3 Fall/3 Spring |
| M.A.P.C. |
100 hour pastoral practicum 600 hour counseling internship |
2nd yr Fall/Spring Final yr Fall/Spring |
1.5 Fall/1.5 Spring 3 Fall/3 Spring |
| M.A.P.S. | 250 hour field experience | 2nd yr Fall | 3 |
| M.A.R.E. | 250 hour field experience | 2nd yr Fall | 3 |
| M.A.S.J.C.D. |
250 hour internship (in region)
Additional semester for certain students: 250 hour internship (in region) OR 250 hour internship (international) [*internship components for this program are under development] |
2nd yr Fall
2nd yr Spring
Summer after 1st yr
|
3
3
3
|
| M.A. Spirituality/Spiritual Direction | See Fr. Steve Krupa for more info. skrupa@luc.edu |
Process of getting a Field Education/internship placement:
- Participate in orientation and preparation sessions the year prior to your first Field Education semester.
- Students are not placed at sites. However, they are given abundant support in identifying, applying to, and interviewing at appropriate sites. This is an opportunity to develop skills that will be transferred to seeking post-graduate professional employment.
Responsibilities of field site supervisor:
- Participate in a supervisor orientation with IPS faculty
- Dedicate one hour per week for supervision with student, focusing on student’s learning agenda
- Provide student with reasonable orientation to site and staff
- Oversee that student is given meaningful leadership responsibilities, related to the skills the student wishes to develop, and adequate support structures
- Complete a formal written student evaluation at the end of each semester of internship
Qualities of effective field site supervisor:
- Experienced practitioner in the arena
- Willing to invest time and attention in reflective conversation with student
- Capacity to guide student’s development of relevant leadership skills, giving specific and constructive feedback.
- Capacity to accompany student in mutual learning.
For further information:
Contact Diane Maloney, IPS Director of Field Education at dmalon1@luc.edu or 312/915-7492.