Application Process
The Resident Scholars Program is normally for postdoctoral research. On occasion the Admissions Committee considers applications from persons with qualifications other than an already completed academic doctoral degree. Anyone without a doctorate is encouraged to explore the possibility of application first with the Executive Director. Resident scholars are expected to devote full time to their research projects as described in the applications. They should not plan to be away from Collegeville for frequent and/or extended periods of time.
Applications are for either a semester (Fall: September 1 - December 20; Spring: January 1 - May 30) or the full academic year (September 1 - May 30). Applications are due by November 1st. Early applications are welcomed. The Board's Admissions Committee will make decisions by early December for applications received by the November 1st deadline. Applications received after November 1st will be reviewed and considered for any remaining openings.
The most critical part of the application is the statement of the proposed project. The Institute does not prescribe subjects or areas for study. Persons whose own intellectual commitments fit within the broad category of "ecumenical and cultural research" are encouraged to apply. This description encompasses most subjects in theology and religious studies and also covers subjects associated more closely with other disciplines such as science and art. Oriented to Christian faith, ecumenically understood, the Institute also welcomes applicants from other religious traditions.
Three letters of reference are required from colleagues who can attest to the applicant's ability to engage in scholarly research. The letters may be sent by email from the recommender to the Institute at the following email address: staff@collegevilleinstitute.org.
The applicant's signature on the application form testifies not only to the accuracy of the information provided, but also to the applicant's guarantee that if invited to become a resident scholar, he or she will have sufficient financial resources to meet expenses for himself/herself and any accompanying family. Travel expenses, long distance telephone charges, and other personal expenses are borne by the resident scholar.
A residency fee is charged to apply toward the total cost of the offerings provided by the Institute's Resident Scholars Program. These offerings include living accommodations and utilities, study facilities, privileges of Saint John's University and the College of Saint Benedict, and the Institute's program of dialogue and community experience.
In addition to the residency fee, a deposit of $300.00 is required upon formal acceptance of the Institute's invitation to become a resident scholar. (See Fees )
*Because the facilities are used for workshops and gatherings during the summer months, the Institute cannot provide accommodations to resident scholars beyond May 30. However, for families who have children in schools that continue beyond May 30, special arrangements can be made.