Master of Science in Patient Counseling
Join us for an exciting year where you will gain experience in unique clinical settings and gain innovative spiritual care skills! VCU offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to develop your skills as a professional spiritual care provider.
The Master of Science Concentration in Chaplain Certification is designed to meet the ACPE 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B ACPE outcomes. The Master of Science Concentration in Certified Educator Clinical Pastoral Education is designed to meet the ACPE supervisory education standards:
Concentration in Chaplain Certification
Available to individuals with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in health sciences, religious studies, theology, psychology, sociology or social work (or any equivalent area of study from an accredited institution). The program requires five contiguous semesters to complete.
Concentration in Certified Educator Clinical Pastoral Education
Provides clinical education for pastoral care professionals as well as other health care providers in the spiritual care of patients and families within an interdisciplinary context.
Applications open beginning December 1, 2025 for the cohort beginning August 2026. Make sure to review our admissions requirements. This highly competitive opportunity will not remain open for long; make sure to apply now for consideration for one of our seven positions.
Statement of Accreditation
Virginia Commonwealth University/VCU Health is accredited to offer CPE (Levels I/II) and Certified Educator CPE by ACPE: The Standard for Spiritual Care and Education, ACPE, Inc. 1 Concourse Pkwy, Suite 800, Atlanta, GA 30328. URL: www.acpe.edu. ACPE CPE is Trademarked by the ACPE.