The Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy(GradCertChap) is a four unit degree designed for those who wish to acquire transferable knowledge and skills in Chaplaincy as part of their continuing professional development for ministry, employment, and further learning.
This degree is made possible through a partnership between
Nazarene Theological College (NTC) and Scripture Union Australia (SUA).
Designed for...
Emerging chaplains
– this award is mapped to SUA chaplaincy requirements at a postgraduate level. Academic entry is available to all those who have completed a Bachelor’s degree (in any field).
Current chaplains
– this award provides current chaplains with an opportunity to upskill while also getting a postgraduate degree. Professional entry* is available for those who have a minimum of 3-years of chaplaincy experience (no Bachelor’s degree necessary).
* Professional Entry Requirements
This award is a short course for professional development from which the student may acquire transferable knowledge and skills over a reasonably short period of time. On this basis, professional entry into the Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy will be considered on the basis of three years’ experience in a ministry or professional role. The candidate must be able to demonstrate that they have led people or projects even though their role may not have been senior in their organisation.
Brief description of the 4 units in this award
- Professional Chaplaincy
This unit equips students to manage the unique dilemmas, challenges, and opportunities faced by chaplains in the practice of professional chaplaincy. It explores the role of the chaplain, the development of partnerships and leading volunteer teams, case management, organisational standards, and professional effectiveness. - Pastoral Counselling in Ministry
This unit introduces students to various models of pastoral counselling that are integral to the process of ministry and encourages critical reflection. Emphasis is on learning the function of basic counselling skills within the ministry (school) context and theological reflection upon this form of ministry activity. - Issues in School Chaplaincy
This unit is specifically designed to look at pertinent and practical issues that arise in school chaplaincy. It explores social and cultural factors, issues of diversity, mental health, crisis management, spirituality, child protection, and grief and loss. - School Chaplaincy Supervised Ministry Experience
This unit includes teaching on group work and community development, but its primary focus is a ministry placement in a school with a qualified chaplain mentor. Students will get practical, hands-on experience in chaplaincy with the opportunity to reflect on the various ministry functions in which they will be involved.
For more detailed information about this award, which is an award of the Sydney College of Divinity, CLICK HERE.