Contemporary migration is profoundly transforming communities, parishes, and society. Migrants, refugees, displaced persons, victims of human trafficking, seafarers, and people on the move present new pastoral, social, cultural, and human challenges today, but they also represent an opportunity for renewal and transformation for the Church and for society. Addressing these realities requires specific skills and a perspective capable of welcoming, protecting, promoting, and integrating within a framework of integral human development.
 

A transformative education

The Scalabrini International Migration Institute (SIMI) is organizing the XVI edition of the Online Diploma in the Pastoral Care of Human Mobility: an interdisciplinary educational program offered entirely online, designed both for those who wish to consolidate and deepen their specialized expertise in the field of human mobility, and for those seeking an introductory approach to the study and socio-pastoral service in this area.
Since 2011, the Diploma has trained more than a thousand religious men and women, religious and lay socio-pastoral workers, students, volunteers, and professionals in the field. Today, it stands as one of the most recognized programs in the pastoral field. Sponsored by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, the program is supported by major national and international ecclesial bodies, including the General Union of Superiors and the International Union of Superiors General. Together, we believe in formation as a tool for personal, pastoral, and social empowerment and transformation.
This Diploma offers not only knowledge but also concrete tools to serve people on the move with greater competence and humanity.

From October 2026 through June 2027, join us for the 16th edition of the online Diploma. Choose a formation that transforms.
 

Why choose this Diploma?

International and interdisciplinary formation

• 100% online, compatible with pastoral and professional commitments
• Available in Italian, English, and Spanish
• Expert faculty with experience in both church and academic settings
• A practical, pastoral approach focused on human accompaniment

 
Who is it for

The program is designed for:

• religious men and women
• priests and seminarians
• socio-pastoral workers, both religious and lay
• volunteers
• people engaged in or interested in pastoral care in contexts of human mobility

 
Program Structure

The Diploma consists of 6 annual courses delivered online.

Each course includes:

• 10 virtual lessons
• flexible schedule with activities every 15 days
• “reading course” methodology
• personalized tutoring
• opportunities for further study through webinars and online meetings
• final exams
• Awarding of the diploma

The program allows for in-depth exploration of fundamental themes:

• History and Characteristics of the Migration Phenomenon
• Migration in the Bible
• Intercultural and Migration Theology
• Church Teaching on Migration
• Pastoral Methodologies in Migration Contexts
• Advocacy and Human Rights
• Ethical Issues
• Intercultural and Inclusive Pastoral Care
• Pastoral Care for Seafarers
• Media and Communication on Migration
• Mental Health and Cultural Psychology

How to enroll in the program

Registration requires: 

• minimum age of 18
• high school diploma (or equivalent)
• letter of recommendation
• submission of an updated resume

 
Submit the application form and required documents to diplomaonline@simieducation.org

There are several enrollment options available:

• Regular: This is the standard enrollment option and leads to the award of a diploma upon successful completion of all required courses;
• Non-degree: Allows you to take up to three courses of your choice, with a certificate of attendance upon successful completion of the courses you have enrolled in. 
• Audit: Allows you to take up to three courses of your choice, without having to complete the required assignments or take the final exams.

The registration fee varies depending on the participation option.

Registration is now open.

Discover the full program and begin your educational journey with an international network of students, pastoral workers, and faculty committed to building more inclusive and supportive communities.
 

Download the brochure HERE