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JST Renewal Program

Discover a cohort-based program of study, prayer, and reflection for professional, personal, and spiritual renewal.

The Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara's (JST-SCU) Renewal Program invites you on a journey of renewal. Immerse yourself in a diverse and supportive community as you explore innovative theological approaches, deepen your spiritual practice, and rediscover your passion for ministry. Through a blend of theology courses, enriching cohort experiences, and opportunities for personal reflection, the Renewal Program provides a unique space for rejuvenation and growth in the heart of the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area. 

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Ray John Photo_1_8_25

Ray John Marek is a Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate. Ray John holds a M.Div. from Oblate School of Theology, a D. Min. from Aquinas Institute of Theology, and has a wealth of experience in administrative, pastoral, and academic roles.

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Our priority application deadlines are February 1 for the fall and September 15 for the spring.

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Renewal participants from India and Cameroon.

The Jesuit School of Theology (JST) is a graduate school of Santa Clara University (SCU), located at a satellite campus in Berkeley, California, 50 miles northeast of Santa Clara.  Renewal participants apply and enroll as non-degree graduate students of JST-SCU. As such, they may avail themselves fully of university resources while also being expected to meet all requirements set forth by the university for graduate students.

JST-SCU is one of 8 member schools within the Graduate Theological Union (GTU), an ecumenical and interreligious graduate consortium that shares course offerings, the consortial theological library, and other resources. Renewal participants may audit courses with the GTU. The GTU neighbors the University of California at Berkeley, one of the foremost educational institutions in the United States. 

  • Completion of an undergraduate degree
  • Either a previous degree in theology, or a minimum of some previous coursework in theology, with capacity to engage in graduate level study of theology
  • Experience in ministry or related field of service
  • The complete requirements for your application to the Renewal Program are listed here

Fall semester runs from mid August through mid December.
Spring semester runs from mid January through late May.

If you are applying to begin the program in the Fall, you have the option to apply for one or two semesters (i.e., Fall and the following Spring, for a continuous academic year).

Estimated Program Costs 

The fee to enroll in the Renewal Program is $7,000 per semester.  Partial scholarships are available to assist with the program fee. As a Renewal student, you should expect the following expenses as part of your total cost of attendance.  The following estimates are based on enrolling in the program for one semester.

Program Fee $7,000
Housing and Living Expenses (estimate based on use of student apartments)* $9,476
Health Insurance required of J-1 visa / international students (U.S. students should calculate their own health insurance costs) $1,848
Total Estimated Cost of Attendance $18,324



*Jesuit applicants often are assigned to live in nearby Jesuit residences.