Why is it called MSP 2.0?
In the 1970s, the Marianist Studies Program brought together lay and religious Marianists for summers of study in a community context. NACMS has developed a 21st century update, MSP 2.0, which includes several of the key elements of the original Marianist Studies Program in a format more compatible with today’s lifestyles. Click here to view past MSP projects from previous cohorts.
What is MSP 2.0?
As a participant in MSP 2.0 you will engage in a year-long program of inquiry both as an individual and within a scholarly community. Background reading, video, and conversation will help prepare you for monthly virtual meetings where you will interact with experts and share your developing ideas. As you begin to focus on a particular aspect of the topic NACMS personnel will guide you to appropriate resources. A centerpiece of the program is a week at NACMS where you will finalize your research in our extensive library while continuing to build community with your colleagues. You will then have about six weeks to synthesize your learning into a final product, print or other media, to be published by NACMS.
This sounds serious. How much time is required?
It is serious. We are interested in developing an ever-widening circle of scholarship in Marianist Studies and in high quality, publishable products. That takes time. We have designed the program with an expected time commitment of approximately 10 hours per month, including the virtual meetings, plus the week of in-person time at NACMS in June.
I’m interested, but I’m not a scholar. Could I be a candidate for MSP 2.0?
You do not need to be a scholar, but you do need to be willing to engage in serious study under the guidance of NACMS personnel. You should have a basic knowledge of things Marianist (e.g. the Marianist Founders, the Marianist charism), but this basic knowledge can be supplemented by the provided materials. Primary requirements are a desire to learn and the ability to participate fully in the program.
What if I can manage to attend some of the sessions, but not all of them?
Creation of a scholarly community is a fundamental part of the program. Discussions with your peers, interactions with expert presenters and NACMS staff, and peer review of projects are all essential components scheduled throughout the year. If you cannot commit to attending all the virtual and in-person sessions, this program is not for you. Unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, do arise and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs when they do. However, repeated absences may lead to your being asked to leave the program.
When are the sessions?
Sessions will be scheduled to maximize participation. Once you have been accepted into the program, you and the other successful applicants will be asked to provide your availability for a variety of options. We will then develop a schedule for the year. Once you know the schedule, you will be expected to make a final decision regarding your ability to participate. No fees will be charged until you have the opportunity to make that decision.
What does it cost?
The cost of the program for all participants, lay and religious, is $260. This includes transportation, food, and lodging for the week at NACMS, access to NACMS personnel throughout the program, and all materials, including shipping. The total amount is due prior to the first session and is non-refundable.
How can I find out more about MSP 2.0?
Contact us at nacms1@gmail.com for the most up-to-date information about MSP 2.0!