The Hindu Chaplaincy Pathway
Four steps from foundational training to board-certified professional chaplain, rooted in the Hindu tradition.
CHT Certificate
The Counselor of Hindu Tradition (CHT) program provides the foundational training in Hindu spiritual care. Scholars study the Bhagavad Gita, learn TrayaCare conversation methods, and develop skills for serving in hospitals, universities, and community settings.
- Self-paced online learning with live mentoring
- Pre-recorded lectures, role-play, and reflection papers
- Open to applicants globally with a bachelor's degree
MA in Interreligious Chaplaincy
CHT graduates can apply up to 12 transfer credits toward the GTU's Master of Arts in Interreligious Chaplaincy. This accredited graduate degree deepens interfaith competence and prepares students for clinical and institutional chaplaincy roles.
- Accredited master's degree from a world-class theological university
- 12 CHT credits transfer directly, reducing time to degree
- Coursework in ethics, pastoral theology, and interfaith dialogue
Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
CPE provides supervised, hands-on clinical training in healthcare settings. Students serve as chaplain interns in hospitals, learning to provide spiritual care to patients and families of all backgrounds under the guidance of certified educators.
- Typically completed during or after the MA program
- Combines direct patient care with peer group reflection
- Required for board certification
Board Certification
Board certification is the professional standard for chaplains in healthcare, military, and institutional settings. Candidates present their work to a peer review committee and demonstrate competence across multiple domains of chaplaincy practice.
- Recognized by the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC), Board of Chaplaincy Certification Inc. (BCCI), and Neshama: Association of Jewish Chaplains (NAJC)
- Requires a graduate theological degree, 4 units CPE, and endorsement
- The terminal professional credential for hospital and institutional chaplains
Start Your Journey
Whether you are beginning your exploration of Hindu chaplaincy or ready to pursue board certification, the pathway starts with the CHT program.
Apply to the CHT Program