In times of grief, crisis, and transition, many people turn not only to medicine or counseling—but to spiritual care as well. Chaplains are trained to meet individuals where they are, offering presence, compassion, and nonjudgmental support. But what does it take to become a certified chaplain?
At the Academy for Jewish Religion California (AJRCA), students receive the training and mentorship needed to develop into skilled chaplains able to serve in hospitals, hospices, rehabilitation centers, elder-care facilities, prisons, universities, military bases, and beyond. In addition, graduates of the Academy are well prepared to go before the certifying organizations to receive board certification. Whether your goal is to work within the Jewish community or serve a diverse, interfaith population, this path requires a combination of academic study, clinical experience, and personal reflection.
What Is a Board Certified Chaplain?
A Board Certified Chaplain is a professional spiritual care provider who has met a set of national standards around education, ethics, and competency. Certification is granted by organizations like:
- Association of Professional Chaplains (APC)
- Neshama: Association of Jewish Chaplains (NAJC)
- Board of Chaplaincy Certification Inc. (BCCI)
These certifying bodies ensure that chaplains are equipped not just with compassion, but with the skills and structure necessary to support people in moments of profound need.
Step-by-Step: The Chaplain Certification Journey
1. Academic Preparation
The first step is completing a graduate-level degree in theology, divinity, Jewish studies, or a related (clergy) field. At AJRCA, students pursue a Master of Jewish Studies with a certificate in Jewish Chaplaincy. The degree provides a foundation in theology, ethics, interfaith awareness, and pastoral care.
2. Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
To become a Board Certified Chaplain, students must complete at least four units of CPE through an accredited ACPE program. Each unit of CPE is comprised of a classroom learning experience and a pastoral care internship. These supervised clinical hours take place in real-world critical care settings, such as:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Prisons
- Hospice centers
CPE is more than internship hours — it’s a formative, reflective learning process that shapes your identity and voice as a caregiver.
3. Endorsement
Most certification bodies require a religious endorsement from a recognized faith organization. For Jewish chaplains, this often comes from a seminary or denominational body affirming your preparedness to serve in spiritual leadership roles.
4. Portfolio & Interview
Candidates must then submit a written portfolio demonstrating mastery in areas such as:
- Spiritual assessment
- Ethical decision-making
- Cultural competency
- Care for the dying
- Team collaboration
This is followed by a peer-reviewed interview, where candidates discuss case studies, their theology, and approach to care.
The AJRCA Advantage
AJRCA’s Chaplaincy School offers a flexible, inclusive, and accredited path to certification. Here’s how AJRCA stands apart:
ACPE-Accredited CPE
Although teaching CPE for many years, in 2025, AJRCA received full accreditation from the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) — making it the first Jewish seminary in the U.S. to train both chaplains and CPE educators under one roof.
Online Accessibility
Students from across the country — and around the world — can pursue certification through online-accessible CPE units and coursework, while still receiving robust mentorship and clinical training.
Pluralism & Professionalism
AJRCA’s chaplaincy program is rooted in Jewish tradition while remaining pluralistic, inclusive, and interfaith-literate — an essential quality for working in healthcare and public institutions.
Why Certification Matters
While many people offer spiritual guidance informally, certification distinguishes you as a trained, professional caregiver. In addition, it:
- Validates your skills and ethics
- Expands employment opportunities
- Strengthens your voice on care teams
- Enhances patient outcomes through structured best practices
- Affirms your personal and spiritual growth
Real Impact, Real Leadership
Board Certified Chaplains often work in:
- Hospitals – Supporting patients, families, and medical staff
- Hospice & Palliative Care – Offering presence in life’s final chapter
- Prisons – Providing moral and emotional support to incarcerated individuals
- Corporate and Campus Environments – Guiding workplace or student well-being
- Military Settings – Serving those who serve
By becoming a Board Certified Chaplain, you are saying “yes” to a life of listening, healing, advocacy, and presence.
Start Your Journey with AJRCA
At the Academy for Jewish Religion California, chaplaincy is more than a career — it’s a calling. With expert faculty, flexible formats, and national accreditation, the Academy prepares students to become board certified, and, most importantly, to lead with heart, humility, and hope. Explore AJRCA’s Chaplaincy School today at www.ajrca.edu or email admissions@ajrca.edu to speak with an advisor.