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Associate of Science in Chaplaincy, Specialization in Clinical Pastoral Education

Academic unitHBIU College of ChaplaincyTotal credits60Estimated duration2 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.S. in Faith-Based Chaplaincy, Specialization in Clinical Pastoral Education

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Chaplaincy and Clinical Pastoral Education core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Science in Faith-Based Chaplaincy with a specialization in Clinical Pastoral Education provides students with a foundational academic framework for providing spiritual support within diverse healthcare, social service, and community settings. The program integrates theological inquiry with behavioral sciences to prepare students to serve individuals in various states of need, focusing on compassionate presence, active listening, and ethical conduct. Students engage in rigorous academic coursework that prepares them to offer support while respecting the individual identity and diverse needs of those they serve. The curriculum is designed to balance the theoretical underpinnings of chaplaincy with the practical realities of service-oriented work. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students analyze the intersection of spiritual formation and human behavior. This program prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

The Associate of Science in Faith-Based Chaplaincy, Specialization in Clinical Pastoral Education, provides a foundational study in faith-based chaplaincy, human development, communication, ethics, community resources, and supportive service practices. This program is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and interpersonal skills necessary to serve effectively in diverse pastoral care environments, fostering a balanced approach to spiritual guidance and institutional support.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
A.S. in Faith-Based Chaplaincy, Specialization in Clinical Pastoral Education
Total program length
60 semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Two academic years
General education
18 credit hours
Professional application courses
9 credit hours
Capstone requirement
3 credit hours
Academic unit
HBIU College of Chaplaincy
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years
Specialization / Minor
Clinical Pastoral Education

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the fundamental principles of pastoral care and chaplaincy within contemporary institutional settings.
  • Evaluate the role of ethical reasoning and spiritual formation in shaping professional behavior.
  • Apply psychological and sociological theories to understand human needs and coping mechanisms during times of crisis.
  • Communicate complex theological and behavioral concepts clearly and effectively in various interpersonal contexts.
  • Demonstrate servant leadership skills through the design of community-based outreach initiatives.
  • Integrate a Christian worldview with evidence-based practices to support the well-being of individuals in diverse environments.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ENG101
  • Academic Writing and Rhetoric
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY101
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • 4
  • None
  • MIN101
  • Foundations of Spiritual Formation
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC101
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: This course focuses on the development of clear, concise, and persuasive writing skills necessary for academic and professional communication. Students analyze various rhetorical strategies to articulate complex ideas effectively. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY101 — Introduction to Psychology: An overview of the scientific study of human behavior, covering topics such as cognition, development, and social interaction. Students evaluate psychological theories as they relate to human nature. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MIN101 — Foundations of Spiritual Formation: This course examines the historical and theological disciplines that facilitate personal spiritual growth and integrity. Students analyze their own spiritual development in the context of leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC101 — Introduction to Sociology: This course explores the structures of society, social institutions, and the dynamics of community life. Students analyze how social systems impact individual identity and group functioning. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COU201
  • Interpersonal Communication and Listening
  • 3
  • None
  • THE201
  • Theological Foundations of Service
  • 4
  • MIN101
  • RES201
  • Research Methods for Community Engagement
  • 3
  • ENG101
  • MAT201
  • Applied Statistics
  • 3
  • None
  • COU201 — Interpersonal Communication and Listening: This course develops skills in active listening, empathy, and professional communication within helping relationships. Students practice methods for building rapport and maintaining healthy boundaries. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • THE201 — Theological Foundations of Service: Students analyze key theological themes related to service, stewardship, and the dignity of the human person. The course explores how these beliefs inform professional and compassionate practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES201 — Research Methods for Community Engagement: This course introduces qualitative research techniques for evaluating community needs and program effectiveness. Students practice gathering and analyzing data to improve service outcomes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MAT201 — Applied Statistics: An introduction to statistical reasoning, including data analysis and interpretation for decision-making purposes. Students learn to use statistical information to evaluate organizational success. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COU301
  • Pastoral Care in Crisis Situations
  • 4
  • COU201
  • ETH301
  • Ethical Leadership in Organizations
  • 3
  • None
  • HIS301
  • History of Pastoral Care
  • 3
  • None
  • BUS301
  • Nonprofit Resource Stewardship
  • 3
  • None
  • COU301 — Pastoral Care in Crisis Situations: This course examines the dynamics of grief, trauma, and crisis and the supportive role of a chaplain or caregiver. Students apply ethical principles to provide comfort and stability during stressful events. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ETH301 — Ethical Leadership in Organizations: A study of leadership theory, decision-making, and organizational integrity based on Christian ethical principles. Students develop plans to lead teams with responsibility and transparency. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS301 — History of Pastoral Care: This course surveys the historical development of chaplaincy and the evolution of caregiving practices in institutional settings. Students analyze historical shifts in the role of the chaplain in society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS301 — Nonprofit Resource Stewardship: This course focuses on the principles of responsible resource management and stewardship within charitable organizations. Students apply planning techniques to sustain the impact of mission-driven initiatives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP401
  • Capstone Project
  • 4
  • All Core Courses
  • COU401
  • Foundations of Clinical Pastoral Education
  • 3
  • COU301
  • HUM401
  • Cultural Diversity and Sensitivity
  • 3
  • None
  • EDU401
  • Community Education and Outreach
  • 3
  • None
  • CAP401 — Capstone Project: The culminating project where students integrate their academic studies with field-based service to address a specific organizational need. Students produce a thesis and a project plan demonstrating their readiness for service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COU401 — Foundations of Clinical Pastoral Education: An introduction to the methodology of reflective practice through the model of clinical education in a caregiving context. Students evaluate their personal and professional development through supervision and peer reflection. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HUM401 — Cultural Diversity and Sensitivity: This course examines the impact of cultural and religious diversity on the delivery of supportive care. Students develop strategies for providing inclusive and culturally aware service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU401 — Community Education and Outreach: Focuses on designing educational programs that empower individuals within community settings. Students create resources that help others understand and utilize available support services. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must possess a high school diploma or a state-recognized equivalent, such as a GED. Candidates are expected to demonstrate an aptitude for service-oriented work and must submit a personal statement outlining their motivations for pursuing studies in chaplaincy. Institutional policy may require evidence of character references to ensure alignment with the values of the institution and readiness for ethical engagement in professional settings. Culminating Project The Capstone Project serves as the final integrative assessment for students, requiring the synthesis of theoretical knowledge and practical applications acquired throughout the Associate degree. Students are expected to identify a specific community or institutional challenge and design a comprehensive, faith-informed support strategy that demonstrates their academic competence. This project requires students to articulate how their proposed interventions reflect principles of ethical reasoning, stewardship, and servant leadership, ensuring that their work is both evidence-based and spiritually grounded. The scope of the project includes a formal research paper and a practical service implementation plan that addresses the specific spiritual and supportive needs of a target population. Deliverables include a written thesis detailing the project methodology and a public presentation of findings to faculty and peers. This project is worth 4 credit hours and is essential for demonstrating the student’s readiness to operate with integrity and purpose in professional environments. The capstone validates that the graduate possesses the capacity to integrate their faith-informed identity with the practical demands of organizational support, ultimately preparing them for future service.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of 60 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Students must achieve a passing grade in all core and elective coursework, including the final Capstone Project. Beyond academic achievement, students are expected to demonstrate ongoing spiritual formation through participation in institutional service requirements, chapel attendance, and engagement in community outreach activities throughout their tenure. Candidates must demonstrate evidence of character development, ethical integrity, and a commitment to serving others in accordance with the values fostered by the institution. Final approval for graduation is contingent upon the recommendation of the faculty, affirming that the student has met all academic standards and has exhibited the necessary maturity and readiness for faith-informed service.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Hospice Volunteer Coordinator
  • Community Outreach Specialist
  • Faith-Based Youth Program Coordinator
  • Hospital Pastoral Care Assistant
  • Nonprofit Case Manager
  • Crisis Support Facilitator
  • Institutional Volunteer Services Manager
  • Important Notices
  • The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
  • HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
  • HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
  • Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
  • The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
  • Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
  • Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
  • This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
  • Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
  • Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
  • Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
  • Degree abbreviation | A.S. in Faith-Based Chaplaincy, Specialization in Clinical Pastoral Education
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years
  • General education | 18 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Chaplaincy and Clinical Pastoral Education core | 30 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 9 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 3 | None
  • PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | None
  • MIN101 | Foundations of Spiritual Formation | 3 | None
  • SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU201 | Interpersonal Communication and Listening | 3 | None
  • THE201 | Theological Foundations of Service | 4 | MIN101
  • RES201 | Research Methods for Community Engagement | 3 | ENG101
  • MAT201 | Applied Statistics | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU301 | Pastoral Care in Crisis Situations | 4 | COU201
  • ETH301 | Ethical Leadership in Organizations | 3 | None
  • HIS301 | History of Pastoral Care | 3 | None
  • BUS301 | Nonprofit Resource Stewardship | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP401 | Capstone Project | 4 | All Core Courses
  • COU401 | Foundations of Clinical Pastoral Education | 3 | COU301
  • HUM401 | Cultural Diversity and Sensitivity | 3 | None
  • EDU401 | Community Education and Outreach | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Hospice Volunteer Coordinator
  • Community Outreach Specialist
  • Faith-Based Youth Program Coordinator
  • Hospital Pastoral Care Assistant
  • Nonprofit Case Manager
  • Crisis Support Facilitator
  • Institutional Volunteer Services Manager

Additional Official Information

Additional source information

Important Notices

  • The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
  • HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
  • HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
  • Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
  • The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
  • Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
  • Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
  • This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
  • Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
  • Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
  • Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
  • Degree abbreviation | A.S. in Faith-Based Chaplaincy, Specialization in Clinical Pastoral Education
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years