Program Description

The MS in Chaplaincy program is a professional degree that prepares students for ministry as chaplains. It combines foundational theological knowledge with specialty training and clinical experience. It is a unique and comprehensive master’s degree which meets all requirements for employment as a chaplain as defined by the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC). It has been developed using guidelines established by the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC), who oversees and rigorously maintains national “best practice” standards for the chaplaincy profession. This professional graduate degree:

The program will also prepare students to meet competencies in four areas of chaplaincy:

  • The students will integrate theory and practice competencies.
  • The students will form professional identity and conduct competencies.
  • The students will conduct themselves in professional practice skills competencies.
  • The students will function effectively with organizational leadership competencies.

Program Website  |  Catalog

Program Length

108 quarter units. The average time to complete the degree is 3 years if enrolled full-time.

Possible Careers

Graduates will meet the requirements for employment as a full, board-certified chaplain as defined by the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC). Chaplains may choose careers in healthcare, military, education, corporate, and beyond.

Application Deadlines

Quarter Application Open Priority Deadline Final Deadline
Autumn of 2026 Jan 1, 2024 Nov 1, 2025
Autumn of 2027 Jan 1, 2025 Nov 1, 2026

Admissions Requirements

  • Undergraduate record from a regionally accredited institution with a grade point average of B (3.00) or better in the overall program and in the major field
  • Critical essay
  • Three (3) letters of recommendation (two academic and one pastoral)
  • Admissions interview
  • One (1) unit of CPE highly preferred
  • All official transcripts of college/university work (mailed directly to LLU)
  • International applicants must submit current TOEFL scores and evaluations of any international transcripts – please visit http://www.llu.edu/apply/intltrans.html
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Loma Linda University educates and encourages a balanced life by living our values of humility, compassion, justice, integrity, excellence, freedom and self- control. You will be surrounded by faculty who are committed to healthcare innovation and research while engaging your spirituality.

Expected Cost of Attendance

The following estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. Estimated amounts may vary based on a number of factors. Students may use these estimates when applying for financial aid.

Required Program Costs

Academic Year 2024-2025

Year of Program
Months Enrolled
Year 1
9
Year 2
9
Year 3
9
Tuition & Fees $36,537 $31,005 $32,658
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school)
$1,300 0 0

Other Educational Costs

Non-required costs that can be funded with scholarships/loans.

Year of Program
Months Enrolled
Year 1
9
Year 2
9
Year 3
9
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
  • $11,835 $11,835 $11,835
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
  • $18,900 $18,900 $18,900
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
  • $19,800 $19,800 $19,800
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
  • $7,200 $7,200 $7,200
  • Off Campus
  • $18,900 $18,900 $18,900
    Transportation Allowance $3,150 $3,150 $3,150
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $3,150 $3,150 $2,700
    Federal Student Loan Fees $2,015 $216 $216
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 0 0 0
    Dependent Care
    (See Budget Revision Request form)
    Available upon Request
    Disability-Related Expenses
    (See Budget Revision Request form)
    Available upon Request

    Notes

    Financial assistance at the graduate level is limited. Please refer to the Financial Aid section on the LLU website. Scholarships are available to enrolled students at the LLU School of Religion.
    • Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only. Amounts are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts.
    • Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
    • To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.