Postgraduate Certificate in Chaplaincy (part-time)
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Discover how reflective practice, applied knowledge and self-awareness prepare you to support others through chaplaincy in today’s diverse world. The Postgraduate Certificate in Chaplaincy at Birmingham Newman University is a flexible, part-time, work-based programme designed for those actively engaged in chaplaincy across a range of settings, including healthcare, education, prisons, the military and urban settings. Rooted in reflective and pastoral development, the course draws on interdisciplinary learning from a range of academic fields including sociology, psychology, philosophy and, where relevant, theology. You will benefit from experiential learning and reflective practice that connect academic theory with real-world chaplaincy. We welcome individuals from all faith and belief backgrounds. With weekend campus sessions and online support, the programme is structured to suit working professionals while encouraging personal and vocational growth. From your first day, you’ll be part of a university community that values empathy, integrity and development.
Why Study This Course?
Studying the Postgraduate Certificate in Chaplaincy at Birmingham Newman University offers a rich and flexible learning experience built around your professional context. The course encourages reflexive learning by combining academic theory with your lived experience, drawing on a range of disciplines that include sociology, psychology, philosophy and theology. You will be prepared to serve with confidence, clarity and compassion in a wide range of settings. The programme is accessible to chaplains from all backgrounds and offers a strong foundation for further study or professional development.
“This course is designed to support your professional and personal development as a chaplain. Rooted in your own context, it recognises that you are, or will become, a key spiritual and pastoral presence in your setting. Through a blend of academic study and reflective practice, you’ll explore your role, deepen your self-awareness and grow in confidence as you develop your chaplaincy.” – Helen Bardy, Senior Lecturer, Programme Lead Chaplaincy.
Explore the Depth and Diversity of Chaplaincy
Chaplaincy is shaped by interdisciplinary depth and practical insight, and this course invites you to explore both through a reflective and enriching learning experience. You will engage with philosophical, sociological and pastoral topics, integrating theory and practice to support your spiritual development. You’ll explore areas such as spiritual care, the role and skills of chaplaincy in your context, whether in schools, healthcare, prisons or other settings. Through sessions, reflective assignments and practical engagement, you will develop the insight and skills needed to support others with empathy, understanding and professional integrity.
Supportive and Personalised Learning.
At Birmingham Newman University, you will be part of a welcoming and inclusive learning community that values authenticity, collaboration and personal growth. The course is taught by experienced chaplains and academics who understand the realities of pastoral work and are committed to your development. With interactive group teaching, one-to-one guidance and a strong emphasis on reflective learning, the programme is both academically rigorous and personally enriching. You will be supported throughout your journey as you grow in confidence and capability.
Got a question you’d like to ask?
Entry requirements, for UK home students, for September 2025 entry: You will normally need a good undergraduate degree or equivalent or substantial experiential learning and demonstrate the ability to study at postgraduate level. You will normally need to be working as a chaplain or similar in a paid or voluntary capacity for the equivalent of 2 sessions a week for each of the modules. One of your referees will need to be a person with direct experience of your practice, ideally also a chaplain. We will discuss your experience at interview. All applicants will be interviewed in person or by video, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and meet one of the teaching team. If you have any questions regarding entry onto this course please contact Margaret Holland – University Chaplain m.holland@newman.ac.uk.
The full-time course fee, for UK home students, for September 2025 is: £2,950
Additional Costs
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
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Placement Information
Throughout your Postgraduate Certificate in Chaplaincy, you will engage in practical chaplaincy work within your own professional or voluntary setting (at least two sessions per week). Working within your chaplaincy context allows you to interact with individuals and communities across a range of sectors, helping you to build insight, confidence and a deeper understanding of inclusive spiritual and pastoral care. These experiences are carefully integrated with your academic modules to support your development. You will be guided by experienced professionals and supported by university staff, and through structured reflection and assessment. These opportunities are designed to help you apply theory to real-life scenarios and grow into a capable and reflective chaplain.
Where This Course Can Take You.
Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for full-time chaplaincy roles or further academic research. The Postgraduate Certificate also forms the first stage of the MA in Chaplaincy, offering a clear and supported route into postgraduate study. You will be equipped to serve with integrity, insight and adaptability across a range of settings. Birmingham Newman University’s Careers and Employability Service provide tailored support through mentoring, expert guidance and access to a wide range of resources. Many graduates continue in chaplaincy, often transitioning from voluntary to paid roles.
Accreditations and Exemptions
This programme is academically rigorous and professionally relevant, preparing you for roles that require ethical awareness, reflective practice and, where appropriate, spiritual insight. It is currently being considered for recognition by the UK Board of Healthcare Chaplaincy. The Postgraduate Certificate in Chaplaincy is a Level 7 qualification awarded by Birmingham Newman University and recognised across sectors including education, healthcare, prisons and pastoral ministry. It provides a strong foundation for those engaged in spiritual or pastoral care and forms the first stage of the MA in Chaplaincy. Students who have completed the Postgraduate Certificate in Chaplaincy or Paediatric and Maternity Chaplaincy at Birmingham Newman University may use their credits toward the MA and typically enter Year 2, provided it is within five years of completion.
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