Pastoral Care

Program Overview

The Pastoral Care program at Abide University prepares students for compassionate ministry to individuals and families experiencing life challenges, crises, and spiritual needs. Our RCSAI-accredited curriculum integrates theological foundations with practical caregiving skills.

Core Courses

• PCA 201 — Introduction to Pastoral Care (3 credits)
• PCA 301 — Theology of Pastoral Care (4 credits)
• PCA 310 — Crisis Intervention (4 credits)
• PCA 320 — Grief and Bereavement Ministry (4 credits)
• PCA 330 — Hospital and Healthcare Chaplaincy (4 credits)
• PCA 401 — Pastoral Care Practicum (4 credits)
• PCA 450 — Listening Skills and Pastoral Conversation (3 credits)
• PCA 451 — Community Care Planning and Referral (3 credits)

Credit requirements

• Core courses: 29 credits
• Required elective credits: 18 credits
• General education: 60 credits
• Open electives: 13 credits

Total required: 120 credits

General education covers written communication, quantitative reasoning, natural and social sciences, and the humanities. Open electives allow additional study beyond the core and specialization electives.

Elective Courses

Complete 18 credits from the options below (18 credits offered).

• PCA 410 — Marriage and Family Care (3 credits)
• PCA 420 — Addiction and Recovery Ministry (3 credits)
• PCA 430 — Trauma-Informed Care (3 credits)
• PCA 480 — Care for Isolated and Homebound Adults (3 credits)
• PCA 481 — Pastoral Care Across Cultures (3 credits)
• PCA 482 — Volunteer Care Team Formation (3 credits)

Admission Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent for Bachelor's program
• Personal commitment to Christian faith and calling to caregiving ministry
• Background check required for clinical placements
• Personal statement describing motivation for pastoral care and readiness for reflective study

Degree Levels in Pastoral Care

• Bachelor's Degree — Pastoral Care (this page)
• Master's Degree — Pastoral Care
• Doctoral Degree — Pastoral Care