Frequently Asked Questions

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is an experiential training program that prepares individuals to provide spiritual care in clinical settings such as hospitals, hospices, and community environments. It combines real-life patient care with structured reflection, supervision, and group learning.
CPE is primarily clinical, meaning you learn by doing. Instead of only studying theory, you engage directly with patients and families, then reflect on those experiences in a supervised, supportive environment. The goal is personal and professional transformation, not just information.
Each unit of CPE includes:

300 clinical hours (direct care)

100 educational hours (group and individual learning)
While some educational components may be offered virtually, CPE is fundamentally clinical. This means a significant portion of the training involves in-person or site-based patient care experiences.

We welcome:

Clergy and seminarians

Healthcare professionals

Counselors and social workers

Individuals exploring a call to chaplaincy or spiritual care
Not necessarily. While theological or spiritual formation is important, applicants from diverse educational and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Each application is reviewed holistically.
The application process typically includes:

Completed application form

Personal statement

Spiritual autobiography

Interview with a supervisor
Intensive CPE: Typically 10–12 weeks (full-time)

Extended CPE: Typically 4–6 months (part-time)

You will:

Provide spiritual care to patients and families

Participate in group reflection and case discussions

Receive one-on-one supervision

Develop self-awareness and clinical skills
Spiritual assessment and intervention

Deep listening and presence

Grief and crisis support

Ethical decision-making

Emotional intelligence and self-awareness
Yes. Our program is fully online for the educational and supervision components. Trainees complete their clinical hours in their local setting, allowing them to gain real-world experience within their own community while participating in a structured, virtual learning environment.

Yes. Our program provides the foundational training required for individuals pursuing board certification through recognized chaplaincy organizations.
Hospital or hospice chaplain

Spiritual care provider

Pastoral counselor

Community or congregational leader

Healthcare team support specialist

No. We also provide training and programs for healthcare professionals, caregivers, and organizations seeking to integrate spiritual care into their work.
Grief and bereavement support

Patient and family care programs

Staff resilience and burnout prevention

Retreats and spiritual formation experiences

Yes. We collaborate with healthcare systems, churches, and community organizations to expand access to spiritual care and training.
You can support us by:

Making a financial contribution

Sponsoring a program or student

Partnering with us as an organization

Tuition varies depending on the program format. Please contact us directly for current rates and available financial support options.
Some programs may include hybrid or community-based training options.
The best first step is to reach out to us or schedule a conversation. We are happy to walk with you as you explore your next step.

How do I get started?

The best first step is to reach out to us or schedule a conversation. We are happy to walk with you as you explore your next step.