Master of Psychospiritual Studies at Knox College
The Master of Psychospiritual Studies at Knox is a growing program with more and more students (of all ages) entering each year. We’ve had the pleasure of partnering with those who lead this program at Knox and in we though the week was the perfect time to highlight this program to you. Thinking about going back to school? Feeling called to Ministry? Know someone who is? Check out the MPS program at Knox.
Program Overview and Curriculum
The Master of Psychospiritual Studies (MPS) at Knox College explores the intersection of theology, counselling, and spiritual care. As a member college of the Toronto School of Theology (TST), Knox offers a rich, collaborative academic environment where degrees are conjointly granted with the University of Toronto.
Students in the MPS program learn alongside peers from diverse denominations, faith traditions, backgrounds, and life experiences, fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning community. The program provides a strong foundation in psychospiritual theory and practice, preparing students for meaningful work in spiritual care, counselling, and community leadership.
Applicants choose between the Spiritual Care and Social Services streams. A Jewish focus is available within the Spiritual Care stream. Students may also pursue the in-program SCP Certificate application as a pathway to registration with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).
To complete the MPS, students must successfully complete 20 courses, including a practicum. The program is offered in person, with some courses available online. The program may be completed in two academic years with full-time study. Some students may complete the program on a part-timebasis.
Core Curriculum Across All MPS Streams
All students in the MPS program at Knox College complete a shared core curriculum that builds a strong foundation in theology, ethics, pastoral care, and interreligious engagement. This curriculum supports both academic formation and vocational readiness across all streams.
Core Requirements:
Seven (7) Faith Foundation Courses: Theology, ethics, history, and scripture
Interfaith Leadership Course: Exploring spiritual leadership in pluralistic contexts
Faith Formation Course: Personal and vocational reflection
Core Themes:
Theological Foundations: Christian and Jewish theology, ethics, and history
Spiritual Formation: Identity, vocation, and interfaith engagement
Pastoral Care & Human Development: Understanding growth, suffering, and resilience
Field Education: Supervised practicum or Clinical Psychospiritual Education (CPE)
This shared curriculum ensures that all MPS graduates are equipped with the theological grounding, interpersonal skills, and ethical awareness needed to serve effectively in diverse professional contexts.
Stream-specific Emphases:
Spiritual Care: Focus on assessment, treatment, and psychospiritual integration
Social Service: Emphasis on social justice, advocacy, and community development
Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy Certificate (MPS, SCP Cert.)
Students in the Spiritual Care stream of the MPS program may apply for the Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy Certificate (MPS, SCP Cert.) after completing five courses and being accepted into a practicum.
This certificate is a recognized education program by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). In Summer 2023, Knox College was reapproved by CRPO as a qualifying education provider for psychotherapy training.
Certificate Requirements
To fulfill the MPS program, SCP Certificate requirements, students must complete:
13 designated courses aligned with CRPO and CASC standards
9 specialized classroom courses, including:
Human Growth and Spiritual Journey
Capstone Integration Course
4 supervised experiential learning units (e.g., Clinical Psychospiritual Education or Supervised Psychospiritual Education)
The certificate allows for limited electives in specialized areas of study, but only one open elective is typically permitted to ensure compliance with CRPO and CASC course and hour requirements.