St. John's Seminary, founded in 1884, is a Catholic major seminary dedicated to forming priests for diocesan ministry. Located in Boston's Brighton neighborhood, the seminary serves students from multiple dioceses with comprehensive programs integrating spiritual, intellectual, human, and pastoral formation. The institution's historic commitment to priestly preparation combines rigorous theological education with practical ministry experience in a supportive residential community.
St. John's offers pre-theology bachelor's completion, Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Ministry, and Master of Theological Studies.
The seminary emphasizes spiritual formation, pastoral skills, and community life.
Programs include fieldwork in parishes and institutions.
St. John's maintains partnerships with Boston-area dioceses.
The Brighton campus features chapel and residence halls.
Contents
Academics
St. John's Seminary offers comprehensive formation for Catholic priesthood and lay ministry. Programs include pre-theology bachelor's completion, Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Ministry, and Master of Theological Studies. Classes emphasize Scripture, theology, pastoral care, and spiritual development. Small classes and faculty mentorship support growth. Extensive fieldwork in parishes builds practical skills. The seminary's integrated approach prepares graduates for ordained and lay ministry.
Admission
Admission to St. John's Seminary is open with diocesan sponsorship for priesthood candidates. Applications require recommendations, interviews, and discernment process. Flexible entry supports vocational calling.
Career Outcomes
St. John's graduates serve as diocesan priests, deacons, and lay ministers, benefiting from formation and pastoral training. Many alumni receive ordination and parish assignments. Graduates often advance in ministry leadership or education, empowered by seminary's spiritual depth and practical preparation. The alumni network provides ongoing support.
Campus
St. John's Brighton campus features chapel, library, classrooms, and residence halls in urban setting. Facilities support daily liturgy and community life. Dining and wellness resources enhance residential experience. Easy transit connects to Boston parishes. The campus fosters spiritual reflection while providing access to ministry opportunities.
Student Life
St. John's fosters residential community with daily Mass, prayer, and formation events. Students engage in spiritual direction, service, and fellowship. Activities include retreats and ministry projects. Wellness resources support balance amid studies. The seminarian population enriches communal life. Boston location offers pastoral enrichment while the campus provides focused formation environment.
Graduate Schools
St. John's Seminary's graduate programs prepare clergy and lay leaders through integrated theological training and spiritual formation. Master's degrees in Divinity, Ministry, and Theological Studies serve candidates for priesthood and professional ministry. Students benefit from daily worship, faculty mentorship, and parish fieldwork, gaining expertise for pastoral service while deepening faith commitment.
St. John's Seminary Graduate Schools Overview
| Program Area | Key Programs | Focus & Strengths |
| Divinity | MDiv | Priestly formation. |
| Ministry | MAM | Lay leadership. |
| Theology | MTS | Academic study. |
International Students
St. John's Seminary hosts international students pursuing priestly formation for global dioceses. International students enrich community life while benefiting from comprehensive training. The seminary provides support to help global learners succeed in its spiritual environment in Boston. For more information about studying at Boston colleges click here.
Admissions
International applicants require diocesan sponsorship and evaluations.
Support Services
International office assists with visas, orientation, and integration.
Scholarships and Aid
Diocesan support common.
Student Life and Opportunities
International students engage in formation and ministry.
Visiting St. John's Seminary
St. John's Seminary welcomes prospective students and visitors to explore its Brighton campus through tours and information sessions. Visitors experience chapel, facilities, and community while learning about formation programs. Virtual options available. Register via Admissions website for personalized visits. For more information about visiting Boston colleges click here.
Recommended Hotels Near St. John's Seminary
| Hotel | Description | Price Range | Link |
| The Inn at Longwood Medical | Near medical area. | $250–$450 | innatlongwood.com |
| Holiday Inn Boston Bunker Hill | Convenient location. | $200–$400 | ihg.com |
| Hyatt Regency Cambridge | River views. | $250–$450 | hyatt.com |
| Residence Inn Boston Back Bay/Fenway | Extended stay. | $250–$450 | marriott.com |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Boston Crosstown Center | Modern amenities. | $180–$350 | hilton.com |





























