MA-PC
M.A. Pastoral Counselling
Department of Pastoral Ministry · 2 years · 16 courses · 100% online
About this programme
Most of the care a church gives happens in the pastor's office, at a graveside, or in a sitting room after the crisis has passed. It is not therapy and should not pretend to be, but it asks more of the minister than most training supplies. This degree is for pastors and chaplains who want that care done well, from within the pastoral office rather than beside it.
The degree begins where pastoral work begins, with a theology of care and of the soul, held alongside a working knowledge of psychology and counselling method. The ground then follows the pastor's week, taking in crisis and trauma, grief, addiction, family trouble and the wellbeing of a whole congregation. Spiritual direction and formation sit at the centre of the study rather than at its edge, and chaplaincy and the pastoral cost of digital life are treated directly.
You will leave able to sit with someone in the worst week of their life, understand what you are looking at, respond soundly and refer when the case belongs elsewhere. Picture that competence being ordinary for you rather than exceptional. Pastors, chaplains and heads of care teams train here, and you would be welcome among them.
16 courses across 4 semesters, about 2 years of study.
Who it is for
Those already trained in theology who want to go deeper, and to be equipped to teach and lead others. It assumes you have studied the subject before.
What you will be able to do
Teach the subject, supervise others, write to a scholarly standard, and lead at a senior level in the church or in theological education.
How you will study
Every course here runs the same way, so you always know where you are.
- Six study modules a course, each with a handout you can read on screen or download.
- Video and audio of the same teaching, for studying while you travel or work.
- A short refresher quiz to open each course. It is not scored, and you may retake it.
- Two tests along the way, then a final examination. The pass mark is 50%.
- Results appear as soon as you submit.
Study is entirely online and at your own pace. Everything works on a phone, and handouts can be downloaded to read without data.
Entry requirements
A theological background is required. If you do not have one, begin with the Postgraduate Diploma, which is designed as the route in.
Fees
Your fees are set out in the admission letter issued to you.
What you will study
16 courses across 4 semesters, drawn from these areas.
- Department of Pastoral Ministry
The full course schedule is issued when you are admitted.