Top 11 Chaplain Certifications

Certifications are essential for chaplains in the job market, as they provide evidence of qualifications, training and experience. They can help to demonstrate a chaplain's commitment to professionalism, expertise and ethical standards. Certifications also provide potential employers with an assurance that the chaplain has received comprehensive training and is prepared to meet their spiritual needs. Additionally, certifications may give a chaplain access to additional resources or specialized opportunities for professional development. Finally, certifications can boost a chaplain’s credibility and reputation in the community, leading to more job opportunities and higher salaries.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Chaplains and explain how they can enhance a chaplain's career.

What are Chaplain Certifications?

Chaplain certification is a professional credential that demonstrates specialized training and experience in providing spiritual care to individuals, families, and communities. Chaplains are trained to provide pastoral care for people of all faiths, as well as those who do not identify with any particular faith tradition.

Chaplain certification can help individuals provide spiritual support to those in need. It gives them the skills and knowledge necessary to be an effective chaplain. This includes understanding how to listen empathically, create a safe space for conversations about faith and spirituality, provide comfort during times of crisis, and offer practical guidance on matters related to religion. Certification also provides chaplains with an opportunity to network with peers in their field and gain access to continuing education opportunities.

In addition, chaplain certification gives individuals the credentials they need to work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, hospices, prisons, universities, or places of worship. The credential may also help chaplains secure employment in private practices or other organizations that require pastoral counselors. Lastly, it may provide chaplains with a sense of fulfillment knowing that they are helping others find meaning and purpose through their work.

Pro tip: When considering chaplain certification, make sure to research the requirements and standards in your area. Certification requirements may vary by region or state, so it is important to be aware of the specifics before you begin your certification process.

Related: What does a Chaplain do?

Top 11 Chaplain Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Chaplains today.

1. National Association of Catholic Chaplains Certification

The National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC) is a professional membership organization for chaplains, spiritual care providers, and clinical pastoral educators. The NACC offers certification programs for those who wish to become certified as a Catholic chaplain or spiritual care provider.

To become certified by the NACC, an individual must meet certain criteria and complete the necessary requirements. The process typically takes two to three years to complete, depending on the individual's educational background and experience.

In order to become certified by the NACC, individuals must first meet the basic eligibility requirements: they must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing; they must have completed at least a bachelor's degree in theology or related field; and they must have completed at least one year of supervised ministry experience in a health care setting.

Once these basic eligibility requirements are met, individuals will need to complete additional coursework and training specific to their area of practice. This includes courses in pastoral care, spirituality, ethics, communication skills, cultural diversity, bereavement counseling, trauma-informed care, and more.

After completing all of the required courses and training hours, individuals will then need to pass an examination administered by the NACC in order to receive their certification. Once certified, individuals will be able to use the credentials "Certified Catholic Chaplain" or "Certified Spiritual Care Provider."

The cost for becoming certified by the NACC varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD. This cost covers application fees as well as course fees associated with meeting the eligibility requirements and completing any additional training needed for certification.

2. National Association of Jewish Chaplains Certification

The National Association of Jewish Chaplains (NAJC) is a professional organization that provides certification for individuals who wish to become Jewish chaplains. The NAJC Certification Program is designed to ensure that its certified members have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide spiritual care in a variety of settings.

The NAJC Certification Program consists of two levels: Level I and Level II. To receive Level I certification, applicants must complete an online application, pass an exam, and demonstrate a minimum of three years of experience in providing spiritual care. To receive Level II certification, applicants must complete an online application, pass an exam, demonstrate a minimum of five years of experience in providing spiritual care, and complete additional clinical training hours.

The cost for the NAJC Certification Program varies depending on the level being sought. For Level I certification, the cost is $250; for Level II certification, the cost is $500.

The process for obtaining NAJC Certification typically takes between four to six months from start to finish. Applicants should allow additional time for processing applications and scheduling exams.

3. Certified Professional Chaplain (CPC)

Certified Professional Chaplain (CPC) is a professional credential that recognizes chaplains who have achieved a high level of competency in their field. The CPC is administered by the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC), an international organization dedicated to promoting excellence in chaplaincy.

To become certified, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Have at least two years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience as a chaplain in any setting;

2. Complete an APC-approved continuing education program;

3. Pass a written examination; and

4. Submit three letters of recommendation from professional colleagues attesting to the applicant’s character, competence, and commitment to ethical standards.

The process of becoming certified typically takes six months to one year, depending on the individual’s experience and availability for study and testing. The cost of certification varies depending on the type of continuing education program chosen, but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

4. Board Certified Chaplain (BCC)

Board Certified Chaplain (BCC) is a credential that denotes a professional chaplain who has met the standards of excellence established by the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC). The BCC credential is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, skill, and competency in providing spiritual care and counseling.

The process for obtaining the BCC credential involves an extensive application process which includes submitting letters of recommendation, completing an educational program, passing a written examination, and demonstrating proficiency in pastoral care. The educational program must be accredited by the APC and include courses in theology, ethics, psychology, and clinical pastoral education.

The cost for obtaining the BCC credential varies depending on the individual’s specific situation. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from two to four years to complete all of the requirements necessary for certification. The cost may include tuition fees for any required courses as well as exam fees and other associated costs.

To become Board Certified Chaplain (BCC), individuals must meet certain criteria including: completion of an accredited educational program; passage of a written examination; demonstration of proficiency in pastoral care; submission of letters of recommendation; and payment of applicable fees. Once all requirements are met, individuals will be awarded their certification from the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC).

5. Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is a type of professional training for clergy, religious professionals, and laypersons who wish to develop their pastoral care skills. It combines theory and practice in order to provide students with an understanding of the spiritual dynamics at work in individuals, families, and communities. CPE is typically offered through accredited programs that are affiliated with seminaries or other theological schools.

The length of CPE programs varies depending on the institution offering it. Most programs require between 300-500 hours of supervised clinical experience and coursework over a period of nine months to two years. During this time, students will learn about pastoral counseling techniques, how to assist those in crisis situations, how to provide spiritual support for those facing illness or death, and more.

In order to get CPE certification, individuals must complete an accredited program that meets the standards set by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). To be eligible for ACPE certification, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university. Additionally, they must demonstrate knowledge in theology/religious studies as well as basic counseling skills.

The cost of CPE programs can vary greatly depending on the institution offering them. Many seminaries and theological schools offer scholarships and financial aid packages to help cover tuition costs. Additionally, some employers may offer reimbursement for CPE courses taken by their employees.

6. Association of Professional Chaplains (APC)

The Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) is an international, non-profit organization that supports the professional development and ethical practice of chaplaincy. The APC provides a variety of services to its members, including education, training, advocacy, and networking opportunities.

To become a member of the APC, applicants must meet certain criteria such as having a degree from an accredited college or university in theology or pastoral counseling, at least two years' experience as a chaplain in any setting (including hospitals, prisons, military bases, etc.), and a commitment to uphold the APC's Code of Ethics.

It typically takes about 4-6 weeks for applications to be processed. To apply for membership with the APC, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts and references.

The cost of joining the APC varies depending on the type of membership chosen. Regular Membership costs $150 per year; Student Membership costs $75 per year; and Retired Membership costs $50 per year.

7. American Association of Pastoral Counselors Certification

The American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC) is an international, non-profit organization that provides professional certification to pastoral counselors. The AAPC's mission is to promote the highest standards of pastoral counseling and provide resources for the development of pastoral counselors.

To become certified by the AAPC, applicants must meet a number of qualifications and complete a comprehensive training program. This includes having a master's degree in theology or related field from an accredited institution, at least three years of supervised clinical experience, and completion of an approved course in pastoral counseling. Applicants must also pass a written examination administered by the AAPC.

The process typically takes two to three years to complete, depending on the applicant's educational background and experience. The cost for certification varies depending on the type of certification sought but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD.

8. National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children Certification

National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children (NITL) Certification is a professional credential offered by the National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children (NITL). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skill, and expertise in providing trauma-informed care to children and families. The certification requires that applicants demonstrate their knowledge of best practices in the field of trauma-informed care through an exam.

The NITL Certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application packet which includes a resume, three professional references, official transcripts, and verification of at least two years of clinical experience working with children or families affected by trauma. Once the application packet is received, applicants must successfully pass an online written exam that covers topics such as trauma theory and assessment; evidence-based interventions; family systems; cultural considerations; legal/ethical issues; evaluation/outcome measures; and program planning/implementation.

Once the applicant has passed the written exam, they must then complete an online practicum course which consists of four modules: Trauma Theory & Assessment, Evidence-Based Interventions, Family Systems & Cultural Considerations, and Legal/Ethical Issues & Evaluation/Outcome Measures. Upon successful completion of all four modules, applicants will receive their NITL Certification.

The cost to obtain NITL Certification varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or as part of an organization. For individuals applying for certification through NITL’s website, the cost is $500 USD plus applicable taxes. For organizations applying for certification through NITL’s website, the cost is $1,000 USD plus applicable taxes.

9. International Conference of Police Chaplains Certification

The International Conference of Police Chaplains (ICPC) Certification is a professional certification program developed to recognize chaplains who have met the highest standards of excellence in the field of police chaplaincy. The ICPC Certification is designed to provide recognition for those chaplains who have achieved a high level of proficiency in their ministry, and it is recognized as a mark of distinction among law enforcement agencies throughout the world.

The ICPC Certification process includes an online application, an oral interview with an ICPC Board Member, and successful completion of an assessment test. The assessment test consists of multiple-choice questions based on topics such as ethics, theology, law enforcement procedures, and crisis intervention techniques. The assessment test must be completed within one year of submitting the application.

To obtain the ICPC Certification, applicants must pay a fee which varies depending on their country or region. In the United States, the fee is $200 USD; in Canada it is $225 CAD; and in other countries it ranges from $50 USD to $250 USD.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their ICPC Certificate and ID Card valid for three years. After three years, they will need to renew their certification by completing additional training courses or continuing education hours related to police chaplaincy.

10. Veterans Administration Chaplaincy Accreditation

Veterans Administration Chaplaincy Accreditation (VACA) is a program established by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to ensure that chaplains providing spiritual care to veterans and their families meet the highest standards of professional competence. The accreditation program recognizes those chaplains who have met or exceeded the requirements for VA Chaplaincy services.

The process of obtaining VACA accreditation can take up to 18 months, depending on the individual’s qualifications and experience. To qualify for VACA accreditation, applicants must complete an extensive application and submit supporting documentation such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of ordination or certification from a recognized religious body. Additionally, applicants must complete a two-day assessment process in which they demonstrate their knowledge and skills related to providing spiritual care to veterans and their families.

The cost for VACA accreditation varies depending on the individual's qualifications and experience. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $1,500 for initial accreditation plus any additional fees associated with completing the assessment process. Additionally, there may be annual renewal fees associated with maintaining VACA accreditation.

Overall, obtaining VACA accreditation is a rigorous process that requires significant time and financial investment; however, it provides chaplains with recognition from the VA that they have met or exceeded the requirements for providing spiritual care to veterans and their families.

11. Spiritual Care Association Credentialing Program

The Spiritual Care Association (SCA) Credentialing Program is a professional credentialing program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of spiritual care providers. The program is designed to help spiritual care providers demonstrate their expertise and commitment to providing quality spiritual care services.

The SCA Credentialing Program consists of two levels: the Certified Spiritual Care Practitioner (CSCP) and the Advanced Certified Spiritual Care Practitioner (ACSCP). To become certified at either level, applicants must meet certain educational requirements as well as pass an exam administered by the SCA.

To become a CSCP, applicants must have completed at least 30 hours of approved training in spiritual care theory and practice, have three years of supervised experience in providing spiritual care services, and pass the SCA’s CSCP exam. The cost for taking the exam is $200.

To become an ACSCP, applicants must have completed at least 60 hours of approved training in spiritual care theory and practice, have five years of supervised experience in providing spiritual care services, and pass the SCA’s ACSCP exam. The cost for taking the exam is $250.

The process for becoming certified typically takes several months from start to finish. After completing all required education and experience requirements, applicants can apply for certification through the SCA website. Once their application has been accepted they will be sent instructions on how to register for their chosen level of certification exam. Upon passing their chosen level of certification exam they will receive their certificate from the SCA within 4-6 weeks.

Do You Really Need a Chaplain Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's needs and goals. While some people may not need a chaplain certificate, others may find it beneficial in furthering their career or personal goals.

For those who are considering a career in religious care, a chaplain certificate can be an important credential to have. It can demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has taken the time and effort to receive specialized training in the field of religious care. Those who pursue this type of career often need additional qualifications beyond a degree in theology or divinity, as they will be providing spiritual counseling and support to individuals or groups of people. A chaplain certificate can provide evidence that the individual is qualified for such a position.

It is also possible for individuals with no prior training in religious care to become certified as chaplains. This type of certification usually involves taking courses related to religious care, such as pastoral counseling and ethics, as well as completing an internship or other field experience in order to gain practical experience. Having a chaplain certificate can open up opportunities for those interested in providing spiritual guidance within hospitals, prisons, military settings, or other organizations where there is a need for spiritual support.

Ultimately, whether an individual needs a chaplain certificate depends on their own specific goals and objectives. If they are looking to pursue a career in religious care or provide spiritual support within certain organizations, then having this credential can be extremely advantageous. However, if they do not have any interest in pursuing these types of careers then it may not be necessary for them to obtain this type of certification.

Related: Chaplain Resume Examples

FAQs About Chaplain Certifications

1. What is chaplain certification?

Answer: Chaplain certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual as having achieved a certain level of education and training in chaplaincy. It is typically awarded by an accrediting body, such as the Association of Professional Chaplains or the National Association of Catholic Chaplains.

2. How do I become certified as a chaplain?

Answer: In order to become certified as a chaplain, you will need to complete an accredited educational program and demonstrate knowledge of relevant topics related to pastoral care. You may also be required to undergo clinical training and pass an exam administered by the certifying organization.

3. What are the benefits of being certified as a chaplain?

Answer: Being certified as a chaplain can provide you with professional recognition, access to specialized resources, and greater career opportunities in religious organizations, hospitals, prisons, military settings, hospices, and other institutions.

4. Is there any continuing education required for chaplains?

Answer: Yes, many certifying organizations require that their members maintain their credentials through ongoing continuing education courses related to their specialty area.

5. Are there any restrictions on who can become a certified chaplain?

Answer: Some certifying organizations may have specific requirements regarding age or religious affiliation; however, most are open to applicants from all backgrounds and beliefs who meet their educational and training requirements.