Pastoral Care

Credential: Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)

Degree Level: Doctoral Degree

Credits: 69 total, with up to 0 transfer credits accepted

School: School of Divinity

Program Overview

The Doctoral Program in Pastoral Care is designed for ministers who meet people at the most vulnerable points of life: grief, illness, trauma, family crisis, moral injury, aging, addiction, anxiety, conflict, and spiritual discouragement. This pathway forms Christian caregivers who can combine theological depth, emotional wisdom, ethical maturity, and practical skill in the ministry of presence and counsel. Students study pastoral theology, spiritual care, crisis response, grief ministry, chaplaincy practice, referral wisdom, trauma awareness, and the relationship between Christian faith and human suffering. The program is not a substitute for state-regulated clinical licensure, but it provides advanced theological and ministry preparation for pastors, chaplains, care directors, counseling ministry leaders, and Christian caregivers. Graduates are prepared to strengthen care ministries, lead congregational visitation systems, provide spiritual care in institutional settings, train lay caregivers, and guide churches toward compassionate and responsible ministry with wounded people. The heart of the program is faithful Christian care shaped by Scripture, prayer, wisdom, and the love of Christ.

Core Courses

  • PCA 801 — Advanced Pastoral Theology of Care (6 credits)
  • PCA 812 — Grief, Loss, Trauma, and Crisis Ministry (6 credits)
  • PCA 824 — Pastoral Counseling, Referral, and Ethical Boundaries (6 credits)
  • PCA 836 — Chaplaincy and Institutional Spiritual Care (6 credits)
  • PCA 848 — Designing Congregational Care Systems (4 credits)
  • DOC 860 — Doctoral Research for Pastoral Care Practice (4 credits)
  • DOC 899 — Doctoral Project in Pastoral Care (24 credits)

Admission Requirements

  • Master's degree in theology, biblical studies, ministry, education, or a closely related field
  • Substantial Christian ministry, teaching, leadership, or research experience
  • Statement of purpose describing calling, doctoral goals, and intended ministry or scholarly contribution
  • Current resume, ministry profile, or curriculum vitae
  • Official transcripts from prior institutions when available
  • Writing sample, sermon manuscript, ministry portfolio, or research paper when requested

Degree Levels in Pastoral Care