Certified Educator Candidate (CEC)

Are you passionate about teaching and developing future spiritual care leaders? Our Certified Educator Candidate program prepares qualified individuals to become ACPE Certified Educators. This rigorous pathway combines advanced clinical training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in an ACPE-accredited environment.

Admission Criteria
To apply for admission to the Seminary Chaplaincy Study Center, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Graduate Theological Degree or Equivalent: Completion of a graduate-level theological degree from an accredited institution (or equivalent academic preparation).

Clinical Experience: Successful completion of at least four units of Level I/Level II ACPE Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE).

Competency Demonstration: Evidence of spiritual care and conceptual competence, as shown by meeting all Level I/Level II ACPE Outcomes.

Competency Evaluation: Evaluation of readiness and competencies for entry into a Certified Educator Program.

Now Accepting Applicants in Partnership with Andrews University
We are proud to collaborate with the Andrews University Doctor of Ministry in Chaplaincy Program. Candidates pursuing or holding a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Chaplaincy from Andrews University are encouraged to apply. Our partnership streamlines the application process and supports advanced academic and clinical integration for future chaplain educators.

Application Process

Portfolio Submission: Upload all required application materials (including transcripts, CPE evaluations, and personal statements) to your ACPE portfolio. Click here for application.

Initial Assessment: The ACPE Certified Educator will review your portfolio and conduct an initial assessment of your suitability for the program and your potential as a future educator.

Interview & Review: Selected applicants will be invited for an interview and further review.

Local Program Acceptance: Please note, acceptance into our local program is a separate process from acceptance into the ACPE national Certification Process.

Upcoming Admission Dates
Fall 2030 Cohort: Application Deadline – December 1, 2029 | Program Start – July 2030

We encourage interested candidates—including those in the Andrews University DMin Chaplaincy Program—to prepare their materials early. For questions about eligibility, partnership details, or the application process, please contact us for guidance.

Accreditation: Our center is accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). A nationwide directory of ACPE accredited centers can be found here.