School Details
Saint Joseph’s College is a Roman Catholic liberal arts college for men and women of all faiths and ages. The 474-acre campus, located on the shore of Sebago Lake in Standish, Maine, is in view of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range of the White Mountains. Saint Joseph’s was founded by the Portland Regional Community of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas in 1912 and chartered by the Maine Legislature in 1915. Today, it is Maine’s only Catholic college.
Offering distance education for learners of all ages since 1976, Saint Joseph’s online programs include certificates and associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees—academic levels that suit any student’s needs. A sense of community is important, so SJC online degrees are designed to foster the same environment as you’d find on campus, connecting all students. Each online program is designed to best suit each learner’s needs.
Accreditation & Licensing
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is accredited by:
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
All Programs
Business
The general business administration degree option was designed especially for the working adult who has some business education background. With this option, students are able to apply previously earned business related credits to increase transfer credits. To satisfy degree requirements and supplement the well-rounded core curriculum, students are able to draw from a large selection of business electives to complete the program.
Through the online business program, students are able to increase their credibility through knowledge in a variety of business fields. Students acquire the analytical and communication skills to lead and manage in their organizations.
Specializations are offered in a variety of areas including:
- Accounting
- Banking
- Management
- Sales & Marketing
- Senior Living Leadership
With an online BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, you have the ability to explore a variety of subject areas alongside this minor in Business Administration. You can tailor your degree while working towards your educational and career goals. The skills and knowledge you acquire in this BS will enable you to work in a variety of professional settings. Business subjects covered usually include:
- Business law
- Management
- Microeconomics
The online Master of Accountancy degree prepares students seeking a career in the accounting field with options for professional development. The program is designed for students who already have completed a foundational bachelor degree in business or have a career in accounting. The program prepares its graduates for the next step in their accounting career.
The online MBA is designed for entry level professionals seeking to advance in their careers. You will build on a practical foundation, deepening your understanding of the interplay between revenue, profit, and costs and meaning, relationships, and values in business organizations. By using this approach, the curriculum fosters recognition of the inherent value of communication and relationship building. Courses emphasize both short term decision-making and long-term strategic thinking for both individuals and organizations. Students will learn to think holistically through a systems perspective, identify and apply ethical and moral decisions, develop interpersonal skills, communicate clearly, apply concepts and principles to real-world problems, understand business dynamics, and think critically and analytically using diverse sources and perspectives. Graduates will be able to engage in responsible citizenship, social justice, and environmental stewardship.
The online MBA program with a concentration in Leadership from Saint Joseph's College of Maine focuses on leadership development, preparing students to be skilled managers of organizations. The curriculum emphasizes the skills needed to increase credibility and capacity for strategic thinking while helping students learn to be respected leaders. Courses offer a competency in fundamental business skills and an understanding of interpersonal relationships. You will learn about everything from economics to ethics and be equipped with the skills necessary for career advancement.
Courses are taught by experienced faculty using a dialogue-intensive method which engages the learner while developing critical thinking skills. You can earn your degree in as little as 18 months and can begin courses during any of the terms scheduled throughout the year.
Education
If you are interested in advancing your education in Catholic Schools but are not able to complete a master’s degree at this time, check out this online educational leadership degree. This program, which focuses on practitioners working within K-12 Catholic schools, provides the knowledge and skills needed to become a spiritual and educational leader of a Catholic School. The curriculum provides the fundamental elements of Catholic Principals and explores school leadership from a Catholic perspective. Graduates are prepared to move into supervisory roles in K-12 Catholic schools.
If you later decide to advance your education, courses in this online educational leadership degree may be applied toward the Catholic School Leadership master’s degree.
Climb the career ladder with this online educational leadership degree. Advance your knowledge and career in school leadership. The curriculum likely includes such courses as:
- Supervision and Evaluation of Educational Personnel
- Federal and State Civil Rights and Education Laws
- Organizational Theory and Planning
- Educational Leadership
This program meets the requirements for the Assistant Building Supervisor certification as specified by the Maine Department of Education and many of the standards of the Interstate School Leader Licensure Consortium used for certification in many states. If you later decide to advance your education, these courses can be used toward the master’s degree in School Leadership, fulfilling nearly half of the required curriculum.
Whether you are a teacher or an administrator, this online master’s in education administration will either initiate or enhance a career in educational administration. Enter either educational management or become a school leader in a K-12 Catholic school.
Gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a spiritual and educational leader. The program focuses on the uniqueness of the principal acting as the spiritual leader of the educational unit. You will also learn the fundamental elements of Catholic Principals and explore school leadership from a Catholic perspective. Graduates are prepared to take on supervisory roles such as:
- Principal
- Headmaster/Headmistress
- Dean
- President
Enroll in these online teaching degrees and advance professional opportunities. The program is for those who are practicing educators or aspiring to enter that field. It does not lead to initial teacher certification but will allow current teachers to improve their skills and upgrade their qualifications or certification.
The curriculum was designed to provide an in-depth, content analysis of principles professional educators utilize. Coursework is designed to expand your perspectives and thereby expand your ability to make well-reasoned choices on methods, content, and results that would be most suitable to your circumstances.
This online teaching degree is designed to be “affordable, flexible, professional, and very personal.” The faculty become not just instructors but also partners with students as they study.
OVERVIEW
This online graduate education programs enable teachers and administrators to expand their career opportunities in four distinct areas: public K-12 schools, Catholic schools, health care education, and adult training.
Engage in a quality learning experience personalized by professional faculty. The faculty, who have practical experience in education, work individually with you as partners in your learning. Courses blend content with your professional experience, allowing for immediate application in your work setting. Courses are available to both students seeking the desired master’s degrees or those fulfilling or renewing certification requirements.
At a Glance
- The flexible online format allows you to study at your own schedule, at your own pace and at your own location.
- Begin right now; there is no need to wait for a new semester. With monthly start dates, you are in control of your education.
- No on-campus residency is required.
- The tuition in this MSEd program is specifically designed with personal and school department budgets in mind. Affordable education for all is a founding principal of the Sisters of Mercy, sponsors of Saint Joseph’s College. We are proud to bring you a reasonably priced, high quality graduate education.
Healthcare
Do you want to work in healthcare and not deal with blood on a daily basis? That’s easy—enter the field of healthcare administration. You can be part of the support and structure that allow clinical personnel to do their lifesaving work. The online Bachelor of Science in Health Administration program at Saint Joseph’s can lay the foundation for your successful career in healthcare.
This online healthcare administration program develops your skills to help you advance in this growing field. You learn how you can positively influence patient outcomes through the administrative support of your organization. The online format allows working students to pursue their goals. You will receive personalized support and attention from insightful faculty who care about you. Core course work covers topics such as:
- Health care systems
- Legal aspects of healthcare
- Ethics
- Financial management
Earn a healthcare informatics bachelor’s degree online to kickstart a successful career in this growing field. Obtaining your Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management brings you closer to your goals of making a difference in the field of healthcare.
At Saint Joseph’s College, your work experience can be incorporated into your studies. The program also provides the opportunity to earn your RHIA and AHIMA credentials, setting you up for success in your new career.
If you have doubts about remote learning, then this online health informatics program is for you. Saint Joseph’s has a close-knit online learning community. You can study according to your schedule, with the benefit of weekly deadlines to keep you on track as you learn health informatics.
This program focuses on the management side of informatics with topics such as:
- Health data management
- Statistics
- Compliance and ethics
- Information protection
Saint Joseph’s offers an online degree in the field of gerontology that prepares you for leadership in any sort of long-term care facility. Your professors have practical experience to offer insights into long-term care administration. You learn to provide dignified, compassionate, and quality care that every patient in long-term care deserves. With this online gerontology degree, you can pursue roles such as:
- Licensed nursing home administrator (LNHA)
- Assisted living administrator
- Skilled nursing facility administrator
Their online Bachelor of Science in Long-term Care Administration can fast-track you to a Master of Health Administration (MHA) degree by allowing you to substitute graduate courses for comparable undergraduate courses. This streamlines your progression for your MHA.
The online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science Administration helps you attain licensure in radiology. Designed for radiographers and clinicians, this program provides credit for your previous clinical coursework to earn your degree in less time.
The experienced faculty provide personalized attention while providing real-world perspectives so you can become a leader in your department. Typical courses cover topics such as:
- American healthcare systems
- Financial management
- Management foundations
For those who know they want a graduate degree, the fast-track program allows you to exchange three comparable undergraduate courses for three in the master’s degree program. You can efficiently complete your graduate degree through this streamlined offering.
For those with a master’s degree in healthcare administration, Saint Joseph’s College offers advanced education at the graduate level. Their Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Health Administration provides advanced learning for those wanting to move ahead in this growing field.
You may add the C.A.G.S. designation to your name once you complete the program in healthcare administration. It designates you as a professional with in-depth knowledge and a commitment to learning. Considered a post-graduate certificate, the coursework offers classes at the graduate school level. Topics within this program include:
- Healthcare financial management
- Ethical and legal perspectives
- Strategic planning and management
Working professionals rarely have the luxury of returning to college full-time. A Certificate in Health Administration from Saint Joseph’s could be ideal for those wanting to expand their knowledge in the most efficient way. This online healthcare administration certificate program provides the following:
- Certification in Health Administration
- Continuing education credits
- Career-boosting credentials
Credits earned through this online healthcare administration program can count towards your bachelor’s or master’s degree at this college. This allows an incremental approach to completing your degree. With this certificate, you are eligible for entry-level positions within healthcare administration in clinics, hospitals, and outpatient services.
Saint Joseph’s Certificate in Long-term Care Administration gives you a great return on your investment in terms of increasing your professional credentials. This online gerontology program is designed for working professionals. You will learn skills and expand your understanding of the foundations of Long-term Care Administration.
By enrolling in this online certificate program, you can:
- Focus your studies on a specific area within healthcare administration, i.e., long-term care administration
- Apply credit hours towards a degree (either a bachelor’s or a master’s)
- Meet continuing education credits or state licensure requirements
- Bolster your professional credentials with a minimal investment of time and money
This online gerontology certificate program has a capstone project that provides a deep dive into either assisted living administration or nursing home administration. If you want an internship to meet licensure requirements (administrator-in-training), they are available through Saint Joseph’s College.
For those who want to work in healthcare administration at a facility that embraces your faith, rejoice if you are Catholic. Saint Joseph’s College offers a Graduate Certificate in Catholic Health Care Leadership. The coursework focuses on leadership and management of patient care and how it applies to Catholic healthcare organizations.
Designed for healthcare administrators and department managers with at least a bachelor’s degree, this program uses a mission-focused approach to teach management and leadership in patient care. Topics of study include:
- Catholic bioethics
- Catholic moral theology
- US healthcare system
- Catholic healthcare leadership
A Graduate Certificate in Long-term Care Administration from Saint Joseph’s College can provide eligibility for those seeking to become licensed nursing home administrators. It is an excellent option for those with a bachelor’s degree to advance their careers with minimal investment. This certificate provides graduate-level interdisciplinary studies for those seeking leadership roles in gerontology.
This certificate program builds on your undergraduate studies. Topics covered include:
- Long-term care operations and administration
- Gerontology
- Healthcare financial management
- Ethics and legal considerations
Saint Joseph’s College fosters students to become ethically-minded professionals through its online master’s degree in Healthcare Administration. With a competency-based approach, their online Master of Health Administration (MHA) prepares students to handle the complex emotional and intellectual challenges inherent in healthcare administration.
As an ever-growing and changing industry, professionals in healthcare administration benefit from a graduate degree in the field. Graduates of this program become effective managers with strong leadership skills. The healthcare administration online degree emphasizes skills important in developing healthcare managers. Such skills you will learn include the following:
- Organizational and financial management
- Human resources
- Ethical behavior
- Leadership
The Healthcare Educator specializaiton of the Master of Science in Education (MSEd) from Saint Joseph’s College offers training for allied healthcare professionals. The outcome of this online degree program in health science is three-fold:
- You can teach allied health courses at the college level
- You can provide in-service training within the health sciences
- You can educate the public
This online master’s program in allied health care education provides an education in both the education and healthcare fields. Students gain skills and knowledge in the field of education as well as how to think critically and write with clarity. This degree in health science meets many states requirements as an “alternate route” to teacher certification.
Nursing
The Master’s in Nursing Administration online program from Saint Joseph’s prepares nurses to become thought leaders in the nursing profession. Students can choose a concentration in Administration to pursue roles such as chief nursing officer, operational leader, or nursing supervisor after graduation.
This master’s in Nursing Administration online program focuses on leadership skills related to providing patient-centered care delivery. Core classes explore subjects including nursing informatics, organizational and systems leadership, policy, quality, and safety. Graduates will have the skills and knowledge in leadership necessary to influence nursing practice and healthcare policy.
Students will study topics related to:
- Healthcare financial management
- Ethical and legal perspectives
- Strategic human resource management
- Strategic planning and management
The curriculum of the online Master of Science in Nursing degree program from St. Joseph’s College of Maine is designed to give students the tools they need to be thought leaders in the nursing profession. The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track provides a specialized education in the diagnosis and treatment of acutely ill adult patients.
Classes combine nursing theory with professional experience, so students can immediately apply their education to the workplace. Core classes examine informatics, population health, leadership, public policy, and research. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Nursing Credentialing Center and American Association of Critical Care national board certification exams.
After graduation of this online Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner program, nurses will be prepared to:
- Use advanced communication and leadership skills to participate in interprofessional healthcare initiatives
- Utilize information systems and technology to manage and coordinate patient care and outcomes
- Analyze healthcare policy regarding access, safety, quality, and efficacy in advanced nursing practice
- Analyze biostatistical and environmental data in the development, implementation, and evaluation of culturally appropriate care for individuals and communities
Take your nursing career in a new direction with an online Master of Science in Nursing focusing on Education. Students in this program develop leadership skills valuable in educational settings.
The MSN degree provides core competencies in nursing informatics, leadership, policy, quality, safety, and interprofessional collaboration. Nurse educators can use their experience to influence the next generation of healthcare professionals. Graduates of the Master of Nursing Education program will be well equipped for roles in staff development or nursing education, including clinical, simulation, didactic, and online settings.
Nurse Education students gain skills and knowledge in areas including:
- Teaching strategies
- Assessment and evaluation
- Curriculum design
- Faculty role in nursing and healthcare education
The Family Nurse Practitioner track provides an educational opportunity for nurses interested in providing primary and specialty care for patients working in collaboration with other health care professionals in a practice setting. Course content includes primary care, young and middle age adult, children and women of childbearing years, and the older adult.
Saint Joseph's College of Maine offers an online dual degree program in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Leadership programs. This program is designed for nurses who are, or who plan to be, in leadership positions such as managers, directors of nursing, Chief Nursing Officers, Chief Operating Officers, or hospital administrators. The curriculum uses a developmental approach to learning, developing insight and foresight, while also deepening the understanding of the quantitative and qualitative relationships within organizations. You will gain the skills needed to increase credibility and capacity for strategic thinking, helping you to become a respected leader. Courses also develop fundamental business skills, an understanding of interpersonal relationships, critical thinking skills, and more.
Students will take courses that include:
- Nursing Informatics
- Nursing Research Methods: Utilization for EBP
- Policy, Quality & Safety
- Knowledge-Based Decision Making
- Financial Principles and Policy
- Ethical, Social and Environmental Responsibility
Nurses looking to advance their career opportunities and take on leadership roles can achieve their goals in less time with the online Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Health Administration dual degree. Core content is shared between the two degrees, so fewer credits need to be completed.
Students gain advanced nursing skills with the MSN curriculum, and the MHA prepares leaders to address issues in access, quality, and cost of healthcare services. Graduates will be prepared for high-level roles such as CEO, Chief Nursing Officer, Chief Operating Officer, or other hospital administrators.
Some of the classes in this program include:
- Population health and interprofessional collaboration
- Quality management and performance improvement
- Advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology
- Ethical and legal perspectives
- Healthcare financial management
Psychology & Human Services
With a focus in Human Services, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine gives you the opportunity to earn a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies completely online. In this degree, you will acquire the skills to work in a variety of settings where your efforts can make a difference to others. This is a growing major and by earning this through distance learning, you have the ability to juggle your schedule and study when it is convenient for you. Common subjects addressed in this online BSIS include:
- Psychopathology
- Social problems
- Lifespan development
With a focus in Psychology, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine offers a 100% online BS in Interdisciplinary Studies. In this minor, you can acquire the ability to work across industries, applying your insight of how people think and act. By earning this through distance education, you can study around your own schedule. Common subjects addressed in this online BSIS include:
- Psychopathology
- Learning theories
- Lifespan development
Saint Joseph's College of Maine offers an online Bachelor of Social Work degree. This program features an academically rigorous, socially relevant curriculum that provides the knowledge, values, and skills required for careers in the field. Students are prepared for entry-level generalist practice in such positions as case manager, discharge planner, mental health and behavioral health technicians. In addition, this online social work degree prepares you to become licensed as a professional social worker or for graduate work in a Master of Social Work program.
The curriculum features peer-support and a strong faculty presence as students complete courses. You will take social work specific classes in human behavior, policy, research, practice, and other courses closely aligned with social sciences. Courses help students understand the impact of trauma, poverty, addiction, and abuse on the brain to understand and empathize challenges people face.
Religion & Philosophy
Earn a Bachelor of Arts in Theological Studies with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine online. Gain a strong foundation in advanced theological competencies in a flexible distance learning format. Graduates of this program may pursue positions serving the Catholic church and society such as:
- Parishes
- Diocesan agencies
- Hospitals
- Social services
Take advantage of fast track options through this degree program. Faculty are student centered and offer individualized attention. Earn your bachelor’s degree and take the next step in your vocation through Saint Joseph’s College of Maine.
A Certificate in Catholic Catechesis is offered online at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine. This program is to serve lay ecclesial ministers or those entering the Catholic church. Students will take undergraduate credit courses studying the principles of Christianity including:
- Foundations of Catholic doctrine
- Sacred scripture
- Liturgy and sacraments
This program is available in a flexible online format, designed for adult learners. Graduates may find pursuable positions as parish catechesis or teachers in the Catholic school system. Advance your faith and career with Saint Joseph’s College online.
Earn a Certificate in Catholic Theology through Saint Joseph’s College of Maine’s online programs. Students will take on understanding and appreciation of the Catholic faith as well as undergraduate credentials for:
- Volunteers and staff of parishes
- Dioceses and religious institutions
- Bachelor of arts in theological studies
Study topics including fundamentals of Christology, church history, the sacraments, and more. Earn your undergraduate certificate and advance your profession and spiritual calling with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine.
A Certificate in Ministry to Black Catholics is available online with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine. This program is designed for adult learners pursuing educational and pastoral ministries centered in African-American communities. Students will hone skills in intellectual engagement, leadership, and more through courses including:
- Catholic doctrine and theology
- Moral theology
- Pastoral leadership
- Intercultural Catholic church
This certificate can be used as a stepping stone towards a bachelor’s degree. Students have the option of an accelerated summer session to move their education forward. Enter society with the articulation and ethics to lead in service with Saint Joseph’s College.
A Certificate in Ministry to Latino Catholics is available through Saint Joseph’s College of Maine online programs. This program is designed for those seeking educational and pastoral ministries in Latino and Hispanic communities. Adult learners will develop skills in interpersonal relationships, community engagement and leadership. Courses include but are not limited to:
- The multicultural church
- Catholic moral theology
- Pastoral leadership
- Catholic doctrine and theology
Study history and cultural diversity, gain theological competencies, and more. Online programs with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine are flexible and accessible. Students may use this program as a stepping stone towards a bachelor’s degree.
The Graduate Certificate in Jewish-Christian Studies offers students the unique opportunity to learn about both faiths from practicing Jews and Catholic Christians. In this program offered in collaboration with Gratz College, students will take six courses in total, three from each college.
Classes examine the theology and liturgy of both faiths while discussing points of agreement and disagreement, with respect for all beliefs. This certificate can be beneficial to those who serve in broad, interfaith settings, such as chaplains, spiritual care coordinators, and social workers. Counselors providing advice on family, health, finance, and religious issues can also benefit from the understanding gained through this program.
A Graduate Certificate in Ministry to Black Catholics is offered by Saint Joseph’s College of Maine online. This program serves as a stepping stone to a master’s in theology. Courses are designed to guide students into intellectual engagement, pursuance of truth, and cultural studies. Students will take on:
- Leadership development
- Ministerial competencies
- Foundational theology
This online program is flexible and accessible to the adult learner. Take the next step in your vocation and enhance your personal and spiritual growth with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine.
Earn a Graduate Certificate in Ministry to Latino Catholics online with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine. This program is designed for those interested in pursuing pastoral and educational ministry positions in Latino and Hispanic communities. Develop leadership skills, appreciation of the Catholic faith, and more through courses including but not limited to:
- Catholic moral theology
- Theology of the sacraments
- Ministry in the multicultural church in America
Hone a deeper comprehension of aspects of ministry. Use this certificate as a stepping stone towards a master’s degree in theology or divinity. Take the next step in your calling with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine online today.
Earn a Graduate Certificate in Theology online with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine. This program serves as a stepping stone towards a master’s degree in pastoral theology. Students will develop a deeper understanding and articulation of Catholic faith. Courses include but are not limited to:
- Catholic moral theology
- Christology
- Foundational theology
Online programs are flexible and accessible to adult learners. Take the next step in your academic career through comprehensive spiritual training with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine.
A Master of Arts in Theology is available online with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine. Take on a deep spiritual and pastoral orientation through a rigorous, flexible program. This program is designed for lay ecclesial ministers or Catholic deacons as they prepare to handle positions in:
- Diocesan agencies
- Hospitals
- Spiritual centers
- Social service agencies
Gain a comprehensive approach to the interpretation, communication, and articulation of faith in today’s challenging world. Develop as a leader in service with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine.
The online Master of Divinity program prepares Catholic laity and permanent deacons for ministry within the Catholic Church and also serves as a prerequisite for those intending to pursue a Doctor of Ministry degree. An accelerated track is offered for students who already hold a master’s degree in theology or ministry.
This program emphasizes Jesus Christ’s teachings and the Roman Catholic Church’s doctrine and heritage, aiming to deepen students’ understanding and application of the Catholic faith in ministry. Some graduates continue the path of becoming ordained ministers, while others choose to become chaplains, pastoral counselors, and religious school educators.
Students in this Master of Divinity online can expect courses such as:
- Catholic Moral Theology
- Ministry with the Aging, Sick, and Dying
- Ministry in the Intercultural Church of America
- Theology of Grace
- Pastoral Counseling