POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN PASTORAL CARE
Course overview
Duration
One-year part-time
Mode of Study
Entry Points


This programme is suitable for those interested in becoming or developing themselves in an existing pastoral care role and provides the opportunity to:
- Understand the difference between pastoral care and counselling
- Be able to see the importance of worship/liturgy in pastoral care
- Be able to see the importance of congregational life in the delivery of good pastoral care, as well as spiritual formation.
- Be more aware of the culture of denial that we inhabit in the west, and find ways to combat it, through good rituals and good liturgy
Description of modules
Framework, skills and ethics
This core module, along with the module Approaches to Spiritual Formation, forms the theoretical framework and practical perspective. It facilitates the application of both theory and relational skills to the practice of pastoral care, chaplaincy, spiritual direction and mentoring/coaching.
Approaches to Spiritual Formation
An approach which underpins all else in our lives, providing focus; a clearly articulated process and a practice designed to heighten our awareness of God. This module explores and progresses that awareness in our daily lives.
Pastoral Care
The module aims to broaden the more recent emphasis on pastoral counselling as the main focus of concern for pastoral theology and practice, to a more holistic approach that involves several dimensions of church/organisational life. An emphasis on pastoral care as spiritual formation views pastoral encounters as collaborative in nature; helping the other to negotiate particular challenges within a faith framework provides an opportunity for growth and change, both for the person helped and the helper.
Dates and fees
Students will also have to fund the following items:
- Accommodation costs whilst staying at the college
- Books and other study material
Further details

This programme is quality assured by Middlesex University and you will receive a Middlesex award on successful completion.
Assessment
Students will have to write essays, give presentations and are required to keep a personal journal throughout the duration of the course.
Entry requirements
Students are required to have obtained a minimum of one of the following:
A first degree or equivalent professional qualification or
At least three years significant experience in ministry and relevant life experience
Next steps
Students could apply for a role as a Pastoral Carer in a range of settings. Students could progress to the MA in Spiritual Formation.
Location
Waverley Abbey College, Waverley Abbey House, Waverley Lane, Farnham GU9 8EP
Further information
Book a Personal Discovery Call today and a member of our friendly team will discuss your financial options with you and answer any other questions you have.
If you require further information on this, or any of our programmes, email student.services@waverleyabbeycollege.ac.uk or call on 01252 784 784.