SIMI: 16th Edition of the Online Diploma in the Pastoral Care of Human Mobility
SIMI Online Diploma 2026–2027
Contemporary migration is profoundly transforming communities, parishes, and societies. Migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of human trafficking, seafarers, and people on the move present new pastoral, social, cultural, and human challenges, while also offering opportunities for renewal and transformation for both the Church and society. Responding effectively to these realities requires specific skills and a perspective capable of welcoming, protecting, promoting, and integrating people within the framework of integral human development.
A Transformative Educational Programme
The Scalabrini International Migration Institute (SIMI) is pleased to announce the 16th Edition of the Online Diploma in the Pastoral Care of Human Mobility. This fully online, interdisciplinary programme is designed both for those wishing to deepen and strengthen their expertise in the field of human mobility and for those seeking an introductory formation for study and socio-pastoral ministry in this area.
Since 2011, the Diploma has trained more than one thousand women and men religious, pastoral workers, students, volunteers, and professionals. Today it is recognised as one of the leading programmes in the field of pastoral care for human mobility. Sponsored by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, the programme is supported by major national and international Church organizations, including the Union of Superiors General (USG) and the International Union of Superiors General (UISG). Together, we believe that formation is a powerful instrument for empowerment and for personal, pastoral, and social transformation.
This Diploma offers not only knowledge but also practical tools to serve people on the move with greater competence, professionalism, and humanity.
From October 2026 through June 2027, you are invited to join the 16th edition of the Online Diploma. Choose a programme that inspires transformation.
Why choose this Diploma?
✅ International and interdisciplinary formation
✅ Fully online, compatible with pastoral and professional commitments
✅ Available in English, Italian, and Spanish
✅ Faculty with recognized ecclesial and academic expertise
✅ A practical, pastoral approach focused on accompaniment and human development
Who is it for?
The programme is intended for:
- women and men religious
- priests and seminarians
- lay and religious pastoral workers
- volunteers
- anyone involved in or interested in pastoral ministry in contexts of human mobility
Programme Structure
The Diploma consists of six online courses offered over one academic year.
Each course includes:
- 10 online lessons
- a flexible schedule, with activities every two weeks
- a reading course methodology
- personalized tutoring
- webinars and online enrichment sessions
- a final examination
- award of the Diploma upon successful completion
The programme covers key topics, including:
- History and characteristics of migration
- Migration in the Bible
- Intercultural Theology and Theology of Migration
- The Church's Magisterium on Migration
- Pastoral Methodologies in Migratory Contexts
- Advocacy and Human Rights
- Ethical Issues
- Intercultural and Inclusive Pastoral Care
- Pastoral Care of Seafarers*
- Media and Communication on Migration
- Mental Health and Cultural Psychology*
* New courses introduced in the 16th Edition of the Diploma.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are required to submit:
- minimum age of 18 years
- high school diploma (or equivalent qualification)
- letter of recommendation
- updated curriculum vitae (CV)
Registration Options
The programme offers different registration options:
Ordinary Registration: the standard enrolment option leading to the award of the Diploma upon successful completion of all required courses.
Extraordinary Registration: allows participants to enrol in up to three courses of their choice and receive a certificate of attendance upon successful completion of the selected courses.
Guest Registration: allows participants to attend up to three courses without completing assignments or final examinations.
Registration fees vary according to the chosen enrolment option.
DOWNLOAD THE PROGRAMME BROCHURE HERE
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 25 SEPTEMBER 2026
Submit your application to: diplomaonline@simieducation.org
