Chaplain holding bible at hospital bedside

What does it cost?

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

How long will it take?

12 graduate credit hours in relevant coursework must be completed.

Where will I take classes?
Atlanta Campus

Application Deadlines View Admissions Requirements

For the pathway to chaplaincy (the Religious Studies, M.A. followed by the chaplaincy certificate) the application deadline is February 15. Rolling applications will be accepted for the 12 credit hour certificate program alone.

College of Arts & Sciences

Chaplaincy Studies, Graduate Certificate

Religious Studies

Department Chair
Molly Bassett
[email protected]

Georgia State University is pleased to be the first public university in the country to offer a graduate certificate program designed specifically for aspiring chaplains. This program is designed for students passionate about faith, helping others and providing spiritual support in a meaningful and impactful way.

The graduate certificate program is in partnership with the esteemed Association of Professional Chaplains (APC), the premier accrediting organization for chaplains in the United States. This collaboration ensures the curriculum aligns with the highest industry standards, prepares graduates for successful careers and Board Certification upon completion (if applicable). Students in the Graduate Pathway to Chaplaincy first apply to the Religious Studies master's program (if they do not already hold an M.A. in Religious Studies), complete the two-year graduate degree, and then enroll in the Certificate in their third year. Students interested in working toward certification as a chaplain and who do not already hold a Masters degree in Religious Studies should consult with the department Chair or Graduate Director before applying to the Certificate.

This comprehensive program offers a unique blend of academic rigor and practical training, equipping students with the essential knowledge and skills to thrive in various chaplaincy specialties. Students interested in institutional chaplaincy will gain expertise in providing spiritual and emotional support in settings like hospitals, prisons, hospices, and universities.

The program fosters ethical decision-making, strong leadership and the ability to navigate complex situations with compassion and integrity. Students become adept at fostering inclusivity and respect in multicultural and multifaith environments.

Learn more about APC Certification Requirements

Graduate Pathway to Chaplaincy

Get your Masters and Certificate in Chaplaincy Studies in just 3 Years with our first of its kind program!

MA in Religious Studies
2 Years

Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy Studies
1 Year

LEARN MORE

Career Opportunities with a Chaplaincy Certificate

Students who complete the Religious Studies, M.A. with the graduate certificate program in chaplaincy studies can apply to the Association of Professional Chaplains to be certified to work in a variety of settings including, but not limited to:

Healthcare facilities
Hospice
Universities

Students in our program work closely with the Spiritual Care Team at WellStar Health Systems. WellStar is a long-term partner of the Religious Studies department at Georgia State University. This collaboration opens doors for students and graduates.

Learn more about APC Certification Requirements

Military member reading a bible

Program Details

All students seeking the Chaplaincy Studies Graduate Certificate must submit a formal application through the Office of Graduate Studies. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

The process by which students will be admitted to the Chaplaincy Studies Graduate Certificate program is as follows:

• Students must apply using the standard graduate application.
• All applications will be reviewed by the Graduate Director and the admissions committee. If students meet the eligibility criteria, they will be admitted to the graduate certificate program.

In order to fulfill the Graduate Pathway to Chaplaincy, you must complete all credit hours required for the Religious Studies, M.A. at Georgia State University or another university that offers a similar master's degree program prior to enrolling in the Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy Studies.

Students interested in working toward certification as a chaplain and who do not already hold a Masters degree in Religious Studies should consult with the department Chair or Graduate Director before applying to the Certificate.

The Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) requires an M.A. in Religious Studies combined with 48 overall graduate credit hours in relevant coursework for certification as an Associate or 72 overall graduate credit hours for Board Certification as a Chaplain.

Learn more about APC Certification Requirements

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

Students who complete the graduate certificate program in chaplaincy studies combined with the Religious Studies, M.A. will be able to provide spiritual care as a chaplain from a variety of religious traditions.

Diverse populations in Atlanta and throughout the United States desire chaplains for various professional settings, and as part of the pathway to chaplaincy program, the certificate will provide a structured program for students interested in chaplaincy.