Chaplaincy Certificate Programs at Central Seminary

Central Seminary is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and Association of Theological Schools (ATS). Our programs are recognized throughout the field as comprehensive and adequate in preparing individuals for other schools or lifelong careers.

Our faculty have years of experience helping to develop chaplains as they progress in their careers. Not only do we help you through the necessary courses, but our professors also provide additional tools that can help you succeed beyond the knowledge you need to earn your certificate.

Our curriculum is accessible even for students with busy lives. User-friendly tools, cooperation with in-person students, and flexible asynchronous courses help to make our mission more impactful. We believe—and have proven with online education since 2010—that innovative, adaptable ministry is beneficial to the cause.

In addition to our excellent tuition rates, we also offer payment plans to accommodate students who might be otherwise unable to attend. If you combine the graduate certificate course with a degree program, you can also qualify for scholarships.

You only need to attend your classes two nights a week to finish either program in a single year. This means you will still have plenty of time to work and gain experience in the field. We have credit and non-credit programs available to suit your needs, and the ability to take classes online lets you learn from anywhere.

We have students from a wide range of backgrounds that come to Central Seminary to learn. These perspectives can help shape your experience to be more unique than a one-dimensional program.

Chaplains are guides who help individuals tap into their psycho-spiritual needs. They use people’s beliefs to motivate them through their difficulties. Even those who are not looking for faith-based counseling may be able to benefit from the presence of a chaplain.

Although many chaplains are ordained ministers, this training is not required to work as a chaplain. However, endorsement from a faith group is often required. An endorsement may be obtained after satisfying specific education and training objectives outlined by an authority in a specific church or faith tradition.

Educational requirements vary depending on the type of chaplaincy. For example, military chaplains need a master’s degree with a minimum of 72 hours in theology and ministry (MDiv), while an entry-level chaplain at a camp or workplace may only require a bachelor’s degree along with specific classes in chaplaincy.

A volunteer position or part-time position as a chaplain in hospice or retirement communities may not require a bachelor’s or master’s degree or board certification—although they are helpful.

• Hospitals
• Retirement communities
• Fire/police stations
• Military bases
• Corporate offices
• Corrections facilities
• Athletic departments
• Marketplaces
• Veteran organizations
• Bereavement/grief clinics
• Camps
• Government buildings

Many professional chaplaincy organizations offer certification, including the largest organization, Association of Professional Chaplains (APC). The APC’s board-certified Chaplain program provides you with the opportunity to become board certified through an extensive educational program, including four units of Clinical Pastoral Education.

Although certification is not always required, it demonstrates that you have education, training, and experience in chaplaincy and will make you more marketable when it is time to find a job.

Both the graduate and professional certificate programs are the same length and include the same courses. The choice you make should depend on what you would like to do after you’ve finished.

If you are working towards becoming a board-certified chaplain, you will want the credits offered by the graduate program. If you are looking to gain the skills for volunteering or caregiving purposes, you should opt for the professional certificate.