@@chaplainmattsanders4884 Brother Matt, I do have some questions. How long does it take to get a master in pastoral to become a chaplain, and what school do you recommend? And do you need a master to become one??
@@tonytran7382 . Hi Tony, somehow i missed your comment. So sorry for the delay! To get a Master’s degree, it’s typically 2 years (beyond the 4-year B.A. or B.S. degree). And yes, a hospital, a prison, etc, will require a Master’s degree, at least from every application I’ve ever heard of. As for a school to recommend, that would depend on a number of factors, of course. Please feel free to leave your email or a way to get in touch and I’d be happy to be in email communication with ya. Blessings! -Matt.
I started using my GI Bill to get my BS in Biblical Studies and Theology, getting ready for my M.Div so I could be a US navy chaplain. Then I got diagnosed with epilepsy in my Junior year which was a permanent disqualifier. I'm glad that there are other paths of chaplaincy available.
Oh wow, that’s a rough health journey you’ve been on. Yes, I believe our God is infinitely loving & infinitely creative, bringing even something good out of difficulties. Chaplains are needed in many fields: VA hospitals, home palliative care, prisons, hospice, of course hospitals. All the very best to you in your studies!!
Thank you so much for this information! I had this epiphany in the middle of saying my morning prayers. If it’s in God’s will then it will happen and if it’s not I can say I tried and with God, I know all things are possible so either way it seems like a win, win! How good is God??! This GOOD! ✝️♥️🙏🏻
Requirements may depend on need in the area also. In my area, a master's degree is not required to be a chaplain. A degree in theology or divinity is preferred but not required for a part time job. I actually know a man with only an associate degree in theology who works as a chaplain. But it's such an important field, I do agree it's necessary to be well trained for this job.
Hey, I was wondering if you could tell me more about the man you know who has an associates degree. Did he get trained in the specific field of chaplain outside of university? I currently have an associates and was hoping to learn what I’m able to do with it
Hi again. I may have misunderstood your comment. Are you asking about qualifications needed prior to taking a chaplaincy course? Different regions may have different requirements, but I can give you a perspective from my experience and understanding. If you like, feel free to email-the address can be found on my YT description page.
Thanks for your note, Fletcher. Here’s that video on CPE: “What is CPE? Clinical Pastoral Education-Chaplain training”. ua-cam.com/video/mSod6lVoG50/v-deo.html
Ok, the answer is Yes or No. (How's that for a clear answer!) Some institutions have one, or a couple Residency positions available, and so the applicant is paid a stipend. But, for the most part, that I'm aware of, students are not paid. Admittedly, it's been about 20 years since my training, so I'd encourage you also to call CPE supervisors in your area to inquire about specific sites. All the very best to you in your ministry!
That’s a good point. I hadn’t heard of an equivalency clause, but I’m glad you bring that to the conversation. A takeaway for others: it may be a wise idea to ask lots of questions from different sources to learn the options available in your State or region. 👍🏾
I want to be a chaplain, but I have no idea how I would afford a Master’s, and I hesitate to go into debt since chaplains don’t make much and I have a family. I’ve know someone who just did CPE for nine months and then went straight into service, but that was 40 years ago. Is that still an option? How would you get connected with a CPE center without a degree? Also, I live in a rural area and can’t afford to relocate my family to a big city. I feel called, but just haven’t seen God open a path for me yet. Maybe someone will see this and help point me in the right direction
It depends on the need locally. In my area, a master's degree is not required to be a chaplain. A BA in a theological field is preferred, but I do know of one person who only has an AA and still became a chaplain. Ask around among the chaplains in your area and see what they say. Also browse chaplain job requirements on Indeed in your area and see what they are.
According to the Humanist Society, you can get their endorsement to become a humanist chaplain with a masters in social work (MSW). Do you think CPE along with the MSW would provide enough training to help out patients and their family members of all faiths? Or would it be in my best interest to do a dual-degree MSW-MDiv program? The reason I ask is because I'm interested in becoming a licensed clinical social worker to practice psychotherapy. But I also am open to the idea of being a hospital chaplain. I think chaplaincy would make me a better psychotherapist by meeting the spiritual needs of clients and being able to tackle existential questions with them. But I also think a background in psychotherapy would help make a better chaplain if that makes sense. I'm interested in your advice if you know people in a situation similar to mine.
Thanks for the comment. Is the journey difficult? Well, like any good endeavor, yes, it has it’s challenges and is a lot of work. But when one feels really called to the ministry, then it’s all so enriching and purpose-full. Getting that MA or MDiv is a lot of work, yes. And the CPE Units take a lot of discipline to complete. It’s all very much worth it!!
You’re asking a good question. I’ll have to begin by admitting I don’t feel I have the definitive answer for you, but I’ll share what I know. From my experience, whereas it seemed ACPE used to be sort of the only game in town, other organizations are gaining momentum and recognition. I do have colleagues who have gone through another program (I think it was CPSP). So you do have options, depending on your region. For example, in my area there are three ACPE centers in town, but then one would have to travel a bit for a CPSP center. I’m sure you’re already doing it, but I do encourage you to keep asking around for more definitive answers than I can give on the topic. All the very best to you!!
Thanks for the question. There are quite a few programs out there that have a good reputation. My own degree, an MA in Pastoral Ministry, was through Santa Clara Univ. It was a great program which I can recommend. (Catholic, of course.) It was costly, but the program, at the time, had a very generous grant program. I liked it because it was in-person (not on-line), a strong community, a prayerful bunch of folks. You might want to check with your own denomination for the schools that are held in high regard. I've heard of a program or two in the Sacto area (but I really don't know much about the schools), and of course there's the GTU in Berkeley, and there are probably hybrid (with online learning) programs as well. I hope you keep asking around, getting a sense of what might be a great fit for you! God bless you.
No, seminary itself is not required. But at least a Master’s degree is. Seminary, basically, is a Master’s degree plus additional work (such as preaching, or congregational leadership, or Greek/Hebrew, etc.). So, beyond a 4-year Bachelor’s would require the two additional years of a Master’s. Now, if you’re seeking to be ordained, that of course would require seminary training. All the very best to you on your journey & ministry!
I can understand that. A friend of mine took one CPE Unit and discovered it wasn't a good fit for her, so instead she pursued music therapy, which was a great fit. I hope you find a very good fit for yourself! Thank you for your desire to be of service. Blessings!
Well explained steps on how to become a Chaplain.
Thanks so much! :)
Hi Matt. I’m sitting with your brother and my Uncle David right now. Thought I’d subscribe!
Thank you brother!! Well put together!
I hope it helps. Blessings on your journey!
@@chaplainmattsanders4884 Brother Matt, I do have some questions. How long does it take to get a master in pastoral to become a chaplain, and what school do you recommend? And do you need a master to become one??
@@tonytran7382 . Hi Tony, somehow i missed your comment. So sorry for the delay! To get a Master’s degree, it’s typically 2 years (beyond the 4-year B.A. or B.S. degree). And yes, a hospital, a prison, etc, will require a Master’s degree, at least from every application I’ve ever heard of. As for a school to recommend, that would depend on a number of factors, of course. Please feel free to leave your email or a way to get in touch and I’d be happy to be in email communication with ya. Blessings! -Matt.
I started using my GI Bill to get my BS in Biblical Studies and Theology, getting ready for my M.Div so I could be a US navy chaplain. Then I got diagnosed with epilepsy in my Junior year which was a permanent disqualifier. I'm glad that there are other paths of chaplaincy available.
Oh wow, that’s a rough health journey you’ve been on. Yes, I believe our God is infinitely loving & infinitely creative, bringing even something good out of difficulties. Chaplains are needed in many fields: VA hospitals, home palliative care, prisons, hospice, of course hospitals. All the very best to you in your studies!!
Great step information. The crow agrees. Hospices are easy to sign on with.
Thank you so much for this information! I had this epiphany in the middle of saying my morning prayers.
If it’s in God’s will then it will happen and if it’s not I can say I tried and with God, I know all things are possible so either way it seems like a win, win! How good is God??! This GOOD! ✝️♥️🙏🏻
Thank you.
Requirements may depend on need in the area also. In my area, a master's degree is not required to be a chaplain. A degree in theology or divinity is preferred but not required for a part time job. I actually know a man with only an associate degree in theology who works as a chaplain. But it's such an important field, I do agree it's necessary to be well trained for this job.
Hey, I was wondering if you could tell me more about the man you know who has an associates degree. Did he get trained in the specific field of chaplain outside of university? I currently have an associates and was hoping to learn what I’m able to do with it
This is encouraging info I never even thought of either. Thank you so much! ♥️
Or a specific MDiv program. I’m
in Sacramento as well. Thank you!!
congratulations to you I'm in Tuolumne Co.
Im looking at getting my bachelors in theology and then moving forward from there. That seems to be what alot our looking for in my area.
Great info, Chaplain Matt! I worked with Matt at Mercy San Juan Medical Center. What a wonderful experience with you!
Thankyou so much!
Thanks so much for this, really really helpful!
Thanks so much for the comment. All the very best to you in your ministry journey.
I'm starting a Chaplaincy course soon but was told no qualifications needed. I, however, do have a degree in Theology.
I wish you well on your studies and ministry. Thank you for following the call to serve others-that’s great!
Hi again. I may have misunderstood your comment. Are you asking about qualifications needed prior to taking a chaplaincy course? Different regions may have different requirements, but I can give you a perspective from my experience and understanding. If you like, feel free to email-the address can be found on my YT description page.
@@chaplainmattsanders4884 that's fine, thank you.
@@TheBibleWithTina
Blessings and *God* bless you. Do you have the link to the course? Thank you.
@@GloryBeToGodForever The one I'm currently doing is with Waverley Abbey College. It's online so can be joined anywhere in the world.
Thank you Chaplin God bless you
Could you tell us more about CPE training and what its like?
You bet. Thanks so much for asking. I found my own training transformative. More about that....
Thanks for your note, Fletcher. Here’s that video on CPE:
“What is CPE? Clinical Pastoral Education-Chaplain training”. ua-cam.com/video/mSod6lVoG50/v-deo.html
When working toward CPE credits are you paid? Thanks for the information.
Ok, the answer is Yes or No. (How's that for a clear answer!) Some institutions have one, or a couple Residency positions available, and so the applicant is paid a stipend. But, for the most part, that I'm aware of, students are not paid. Admittedly, it's been about 20 years since my training, so I'd encourage you also to call CPE supervisors in your area to inquire about specific sites. All the very best to you in your ministry!
Do I have to do all 4 of these or just one?
I know a few people who have an accredited chaplaincy and they never had a masters? Isn't it equivalency too ?
That’s a good point. I hadn’t heard of an equivalency clause, but I’m glad you bring that to the conversation. A takeaway for others: it may be a wise idea to ask lots of questions from different sources to learn the options available in your State or region. 👍🏾
I want to be a chaplain, but I have no idea how I would afford a Master’s, and I hesitate to go into debt since chaplains don’t make much and I have a family. I’ve know someone who just did CPE for nine months and then went straight into service, but that was 40 years ago. Is that still an option? How would you get connected with a CPE center without a degree? Also, I live in a rural area and can’t afford to relocate my family to a big city. I feel called, but just haven’t seen God open a path for me yet. Maybe someone will see this and help point me in the right direction
It depends on the need locally. In my area, a master's degree is not required to be a chaplain. A BA in a theological field is preferred, but I do know of one person who only has an AA and still became a chaplain. Ask around among the chaplains in your area and see what they say. Also browse chaplain job requirements on Indeed in your area and see what they are.
According to the Humanist Society, you can get their endorsement to become a humanist chaplain with a masters in social work (MSW). Do you think CPE along with the MSW would provide enough training to help out patients and their family members of all faiths? Or would it be in my best interest to do a dual-degree MSW-MDiv program?
The reason I ask is because I'm interested in becoming a licensed clinical social worker to practice psychotherapy. But I also am open to the idea of being a hospital chaplain. I think chaplaincy would make me a better psychotherapist by meeting the spiritual needs of clients and being able to tackle existential questions with them. But I also think a background in psychotherapy would help make a better chaplain if that makes sense.
I'm interested in your advice if you know people in a situation similar to mine.
Hello thank you for the information. Is the journey to becoming a chaplain hard?
Thanks for the comment. Is the journey difficult? Well, like any good endeavor, yes, it has it’s challenges and is a lot of work. But when one feels really called to the ministry, then it’s all so enriching and purpose-full. Getting that MA or MDiv is a lot of work, yes. And the CPE Units take a lot of discipline to complete. It’s all very much worth it!!
Is ACPE the necessary/only route or is CSPS a better route? Seeking all options
You’re asking a good question. I’ll have to begin by admitting I don’t feel I have the definitive answer for you, but I’ll share what I know. From my experience, whereas it seemed ACPE used to be sort of the only game in town, other organizations are gaining momentum and recognition. I do have colleagues who have gone through another program (I think it was CPSP). So you do have options, depending on your region. For example, in my area there are three ACPE centers in town, but then one would have to travel a bit for a CPSP center. I’m sure you’re already doing it, but I do encourage you to keep asking around for more definitive answers than I can give on the topic. All the very best to you!!
@@chaplainmattsanders4884 Thank you so very much for your answer! Very helpful
Is there a specific MA program you would recommend?
Thanks for the question. There are quite a few programs out there that have a good reputation. My own degree, an MA in Pastoral Ministry, was through Santa Clara Univ. It was a great program which I can recommend. (Catholic, of course.) It was costly, but the program, at the time, had a very generous grant program. I liked it because it was in-person (not on-line), a strong community, a prayerful bunch of folks. You might want to check with your own denomination for the schools that are held in high regard. I've heard of a program or two in the Sacto area (but I really don't know much about the schools), and of course there's the GTU in Berkeley, and there are probably hybrid (with online learning) programs as well. I hope you keep asking around, getting a sense of what might be a great fit for you! God bless you.
Do I need to go to a seminary?
No, seminary itself is not required. But at least a Master’s degree is. Seminary, basically, is a Master’s degree plus additional work (such as preaching, or congregational leadership, or Greek/Hebrew, etc.). So, beyond a 4-year Bachelor’s would require the two additional years of a Master’s. Now, if you’re seeking to be ordained, that of course would require seminary training. All the very best to you on your journey & ministry!
I'm interested in becoming a chaplain in the USA
double Doctorete Degree Docorete in Divinity and Doctoete Metaphysics a letter in good faith is my CPE
All the very best to you in your service. God bless.
I have been struggling with CPE for years!! I don't like it!
I can understand that. A friend of mine took one CPE Unit and discovered it wasn't a good fit for her, so instead she pursued music therapy, which was a great fit. I hope you find a very good fit for yourself! Thank you for your desire to be of service. Blessings!
I’m on my 5th unit!
Now my 7th!
@@mikemcconville2495 you’re doing so well brother in Christ ❤️🔥
Seems complicated
It does take quite a lot of work, that’s true. But well worth it, at least it is for me. Blessings to you on your own journey!
God also uses unlearned men