A New MA in Interreligious Chaplaincy at Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, CA

Beginning in the Fall 2025 semester, the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) will launch its redesigned Master of Arts (MA) program, now a 36-unit degree completed over three semesters of full-time study. Students will also have the flexibility to pursue part-time, hybrid, or fully online study. Within this enhanced program, the GTU will introduce a new MA Concentration in Interreligious Chaplaincy, designed to begin concurrently this fall.

This Interreligious Chaplaincy concentration prepares students for meaningful work as spiritual caregivers in today's deeply diverse and interconnected world. It equips them with the essential skills needed to offer holistic and compassionate care across a broad spectrum of faith traditions. The curriculum integrates ethical professionalism, deep self-reflection, cultural humility, and practical training in chaplaincy, education, and leadership. Graduates will be well-prepared to serve in dynamic and inclusive settings.

Sample course offerings include:

• Soul Care
• Mental Health and Addiction
• Death Theologies, Grief, and Rituals
• Care for Marginalized Communities

Dr. Kamal Abu-Shamsieh, Director of the GTU Interreligious Chaplaincy Program, explains: "The GTU MA concentration in Interreligious Chaplaincy equips compassionate spiritual care providers with the knowledge, skills, and intercultural sensitivity necessary to offer holistic support to individuals and communities at times of crisis, transition, and spiritual need in various chaplaincy settings, among them healthcare, prisons, higher education, or the military."

Students who have already earned a certificate from the Hindu Spiritual Care Institute (HSCI) may be eligible for advanced standing -- up to 12 credits -- toward the MA degree. To support these students in continuing their education at GTU, the HSCI Board has approved up to six scholarships for qualifying applicants.

Dr. Christopher Ocker, Dean of the Graduate Theological Union and Dillenberger Professor of the History of Christianity, affirms the importance of this partnership: "Combining resources with HSCI allows GTU students to bring cutting-edge, rigorous theological and religious scholarship to bear on the most effective practices of spiritual care. The GTU is immensely fortunate to have this collaboration."