The Master of Arts in Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care (M.A. in Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care) is offered by some seminaries as either a second masters degree, following a Master of Divinity, or as an alternative to the M.Div.. This degree program trains individuals to become chaplains in hospitals, schools, jails and other institutions. It also prepares ordained and lay ministers to provide pastoral care to others.
Curriculums vary between schools, but usually include a foundation in biblical studies, theology and church history, along with coursework in pastoral care and counseling. Students are normally also required to complete a clinical pastoral education program, in which they provide supervised pastoral care and chaplaincy services at a hospital or other institution.
Prospective students should be aware that an M..A program such as this one may not be considered adequate for ordination: Individuals who wish to become ordained might need to complete a M.Div. degree before, or after, earning their MA.
Seminaries with Accredited Master of Arts in Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care Degrees
- Semnary of the Southwest (Master of Arts in Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care)
- Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (M.A. in Chaplaincy and Ministry Care)
More theology degrees:
- M.Div.
- M.A. in Chrisitan Ministry
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in Counseling
- M.A. in Spiritual Direction
There are still many more theology degrees offered by seminaries.