The Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities (APCU) and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary (PTS) have developed a post-graduate vocational certification program designed specifically to equip current and aspiring college chaplains for the breadth and depth of work associated with this critical role on campuses across the nation. To the best of our knowledge, this program is the first and only program of its kind that focuses exclusively on college chaplaincy.
The program is firmly grounded in the Reformed tradition and focused on the distinct vocational call to serve as a college chaplain. It serves as a vocational renewal opportunity and resourcing program for those serving in the ministerial role of college chaplain.
An Ideal Structure
The 18-month hybrid delivery model balances vocational affirmation with educational enrichment while avoiding interference with the work of participating chaplains. Each course module combines online delivery with an in-person gathering to provide a holistic formation experience. Also, through a retreat that brings together participants and their respective presidents, the Program directly engages campus leaders in the learning process so that they can better understand and appreciate the role and value of the chaplain at their institutions.
An Engaging Curriculum
Discern appropriate support resources for personal and professional growth, as well as growth as a self-differentiated leader.
Examine and articulate the relevance and influence of the Reformed Tradition in both institution and ministry.
Expand knowledge and understanding of the higher education landscape and the integration of chaplaincy into it.
Define the distinctive nature of chaplaincy within higher education, especially within the Reformed tradition.
Develop skills for advocating for chaplaincy and the support of religious identity within APCU institutions.
Program Modules
Orientation Gathering
The Orientation Gathering is a unique opportunity to guide and inspire our cohort of peer-to-peer learners as they embark on this journey. The gathering will be held in Summer 2025 and will focus on fostering a welcoming environment while building positive group dynamics and introducing participants to the learning objectives tied to the grant and overarching project goals.
Key Features:
Cohort Introduction: Facilitate connections and encourage a sense of community.
Learning Objective Clarity: Help participants understand the grant’s vision and project goals.
Feedback and Reflection: Gather insights from the group to align expectations.
Benefits for participants:
Draw inspiration from the connection between Fred Rogers’ legacy and his beginnings at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.
Experience “nourishment to the soul” through meaningful activities and interactions.
Learn valuable practices like daily prayer and boundary setting for navigating difficult times.
Engage in off-campus activities to promote bonding and relaxation.
Courses
Course I: The Tightrope – Managing Ministry, Self, and Context
The Tightrope is a 4-6 week online, asynchronous course designed to equip participants with practical skills and insights to navigate the complex dynamics of ministry, personal growth, and contextual challenges. Scheduled for Summer 2025, this course combines online learning with an in-person gathering to provide a holistic formation experience. Instructors will help to guide learners in developing sustainable practices for self-differentiated ministry and leadership.
Course Learning Goals:
Cultivate habits and strategies that promote healthy, balanced, and self-aware ministry.
Explore the interplay of personal boundaries, ministry demands, and self-definition in leadership.
Integrate spiritual direction and coaching/mentorship into the learning process for personal and professional growth.
In-Person Formation Retreat:
The learning goals for this course block will be met through an in-person retreat during which online coursework and spiritual formation work will be covered with a facilitator-practitioner.
This module represents “the six R’s”: Rest, Reflect, Recenter, Relationship, Responsibility and Resources
Course 2: The Campus Minister – Discerning the Ministry and Its Context
The Campus Minister is a transformative course designed to prepare participants for the unique challenges and opportunities of ministry in a university setting. Scheduled for Fall/Winter 2025, this 4-6 week online, asynchronous course combines online learning ending with an in-person gathering to provide a holistic formation experience. Instructors will play a pivotal role in guiding learners as they discern their calling and explore the theological, cultural, and generational dynamics that shape campus ministry.
Course Learning Goals:
Identify the gifts, skills, and practices essential for thriving as a campus minister.
Examine how the Reformed theological tradition influences institutional culture and ministry.
Explore opportunities for campus ministry in areas such as pastoral care, evangelism, mission, and spiritual formation.
Develop an understanding of the generational composition and needs of today’s college communities.
Define the mission of the ministry and its alignment with institutional and personal goals.
Course 3: University 101 – Functioning within Higher Education Administration
University 101 is a comprehensive course designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of higher education administration. Scheduled for Summer/Fall 2026, this 4-6 week online, asynchronous course combines online learning ending with an in-person retreat to bridge the gap between chaplaincy and university leadership. This is a unique opportunity for instructors with expertise in higher education to prepare chaplains for their vital role within the academic ecosystem.
Course Learning Goals:
Understand the ecosystem of higher education and how chaplains integrate into its structure.
Explore administrative and ministry models relevant to university contexts.
Gain foundational knowledge of budgets, policy-making, and higher ed governance models
Develop insight into university leadership priorities and the concerns of college administration.
Examine the role of religion in shaping the mission, culture, and student life of academic institutions.
In-Person Presidential Integration Retreat
This retreat brings together cohort members and their respective university presidents to deepen engagement and foster a collaboration. The gathering will directly engage presidents in the learning process so that they can better understand the role and value of the chaplain at their institutions.
Course 4: Presence, Proclamation, and Profession – Ministry in Interdisciplinary and Interfaith Contexts
Presence, Proclamation, and Profession is a culminating course in the College Chaplain Certificate program that explores the complexities of chaplaincy within diverse, interdisciplinary, and interfaith contexts. Scheduled for Fall/Winter 2026, this 4-6 week online, asynchronous course, capped by an in-person gathering, provides chaplains with the tools to master their vocation, define their role within the Reformed tradition, and advocate for religious identity in academic institutions.
Course Learning Goals:
Integrate Christian ministry, pastoral vocation, and contextual understanding in the life of the college chaplain.
Define the distinctive characteristics and role of the university chaplain in the Reformed theological tradition.
Identify and articulate formative practices for chaplains in higher education.
Develop advocacy skills for promoting the value of chaplaincy and religious identity within APCU institutions.
In-Person Closing Formation Gathering
The course culminates in a gathering at PTS, designed to serve as the capstone for the College Chaplain Certificate program. Participants will engage in:
Final coursework on ministry in interdisciplinary and interfaith contexts.
Spiritual and formation practices to deepen their vocational identity.
Worship and contextual learning experiences to connect theory with practice.
Program Application
The Certification Program for College Chaplains is open to chaplains currently serving APCU schools, Presbyterian-ordained chaplains serving non-APCU schools, and graduates of Presbyterian-related seminaries interested in serving as college chaplains.
Applications will be evaluated by the Certification Program Steering Committee on a rolling basis. The initial cohort will be limited to 15 participants, so the earlier an application is received, the greater the likelihood for acceptance into the program.
All costs associated with the program, including course fees, transportation, and housing (for in-person activities) are covered by a generous grant from the Lilly Endowment. To be considered for the inaugural 2025-26 cohort, please click the button below and complete the online application form. Note that applicants must have approval from their school’s president to participate.
If you have any questions about the application or the Certification Program, please contact Sydney Morton, Program Administrator by email at sydney.morton@presbyteriancolleges.org or by phone at 678.642.7982.
