The Diocese has chosen to accept the definitions of the National Conference of Catechetical Leadership in recognizing three levels of Religious Education Leadership. The fourth level, Facilitator of Religious Education, is considered an entry level position. A person being hired at this level is expected to pursue further certification as noted.

1.  Director of Religious Education

To be considered a Director one must have a master’s degree in

• Religious Education
• Pastoral Studies with a concentration in religious education
• Education: it is expected that persons with a degree in education would have 18 credits of theology/religious studies
• Theology / religious studies or its equivalent: those with master's in theology/religious studies would have 12 credits in religious education or education
• Other fields of study: persons with a master's degree in a field other than religious education, education, or theology/religious studies would expected to have a graduate certificate in religious education

A professional agreement is a Diocesan requirement for Directors of Religious Education.

Fact sheet: Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies at Gannon University

Fact sheet: Master of Arts in Ministry at Ursuline College

Fact sheet: Master of Arts in Religious Education at Duquesne University

Fact sheet: Master of Arts in Religious Education at Loyola University of Chicago (online program)

2.  Coordinator of Religious Education

There are several paths to the title Coordinator:

• One may have a bachelor's degree in religious education
• One may have a bachelor's degree in theology / religious studies with the completion of 12 credits in religious education/education
• One may complete the Diocesan Silo'am Project (a formation program for religious education leaders using online courses and a local formation director) at the coordinator level
• One may have an “Advanced Certificate Program” (minimum 21 credits) plus 5 years successfully leading a program

A professional agreement is a diocesan requirement for Coordinators of Religious Education.

3.  Administrator of Religious Education
One may complete the diocesan Silo'am Project (a formation program for religious education leaders using online courses and a local formation director) at the Administrator level.

A professional agreement is suggested but not required for Administrators of Religious Education.

4.  Facilitator of Religious Education

• Anyone working as a Religious Education Leader in the diocese who has not achieved the above credentials will be considered a Facilitator
• Every new Facilitator is expected to be enrolled in a formation program within three years of their starting date

A professional agreement is suggested but not required for Facilitators of Religious Education.

Training programs and scholarships