The Course of Study for the
Pastoral Care Specialist Certificate

The curriculum for this certificate program features four three-week Connected Learning core seminars and a six-week practicum utilizing one's placement in a ministry context. (A total of 72 contact hours.) 

The four core seminars are:

• Introduction to the Ministry of Pastoral Care  (12 contact hours)

• Crisis Intervention and Pastoral Care  (12 contact hours)

• Pastoral Care and Counseling with Grief and Loss  (12 contact hours)

• Pastoral Assessment, Referral, and Supportive Counseling  
  (12 contact hours)

Each three-week seminar consists of at least 3 hours of instructional presentation and 9 hours of interactive dialogue, reflection, and small group consultation with peers utlizing the Oates Institute's Connected Learning approach.  Each seminar is facilitated by a member of the Oates Institute’s faculty who is also a Fellow or Diplomate with the American Association of Pastoral Counselors.

The six week Pastoral Care Practicum (24 contact hours) follows the core seminars and requires participants to be in a place of service where they can apply what they have learned in the core seminars.  Requirements for the practicum also include case study presentations that will be reviewed by the practicum facilitator and colleagues within the peer group.  Participants are also expected to utilize the feedback and support of an on-site Advisory Committee.  Outside readings will be recommended as applicable.