Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Psychology

The Postgraduate Diploma in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology (PGDPCP) program is designed for individuals who wish to develop practical counseling skills with a focus on promoting the well-being and mental health of individuals, families, and communities. This 1-year non-residential, off-campus program (30 credits) offers specialized training to help students become effective counselors within both church and secular settings, equipping them with the tools to assist individuals in navigating life's challenges from a psychological and pastoral perspective.

PG Diploma in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology Program Overview

• Duration: 1 Year
• Credits: 30 Credits
• Mode: Non-Residential (Off-Campus)
• Course Delivery: Online 
• Enrollment Period: For the 2025-2026 academic year

Program Objective:

The PGDPCP program is crafted to teach students the essential skills required for "Taking Care of the Soul" in diverse situations, with a strong emphasis on mental health, spiritual guidance, and pastoral care. The core objectives of the program are:

• Promoting Positive Growth and Well-being: Training students to foster mental health, emotional well-being, and personal growth in individuals, families, and communities.

• Training Pastoral Staff: Assisting and educating pastoral leaders and church personnel to offer empathetic and informed counseling services.

• Preparing Future Counselors: Equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to become counselors in educational, religious, social, and business contexts.

• Interdisciplinary Research: Preparing students to engage in research that combines pastoral counseling and psychology with other social science fields, promoting holistic approaches to human well-being.

The program's primary goal is to nurture transformational leaders who can apply their knowledge in pastoral counseling to serve effectively in their local churches and communities, fulfilling the Great Commission through holistic ministry.

Specializations Offered

1. Educational Counseling:

   • Focuses on counseling within educational settings, helping students, teachers, and families cope with challenges in academic environments.
   • Topics may include learning difficulties, student behavior, career guidance, and academic stress management.

2. Marriage and Family Counseling:

   • Specialized training in supporting couples and families through relational challenges, conflict resolution, communication issues, and emotional well-being.
   • Addresses marital issues, parenting concerns, and family dynamics, helping individuals and families achieve healthier relationships.

3. Crisis Counseling:

   • Equips students with the skills necessary to provide counseling during times of crisis, such as grief, loss, trauma, or mental health crises.
   • Training in helping individuals and communities navigate sudden, emotionally intense situations with support and care.

Outstanding Features of the Program

1. Collaboration with Skilled Faculty:

   • The program features teaching by experienced national and international faculty members with expertise in counseling, psychology, and pastoral care. Students benefit from diverse perspectives and a rich academic environment.

2. Employment Possibilities:

   • The skills and knowledge gained in this program prepare graduates for a variety of counseling-related roles, both within the Church and in secular fields such as education, healthcare, and business.

3. Cultivating Selfless Leadership:

   • The program encourages the development of leaders who prioritize the well-being of others, offering practical tools for counseling in a way that reflects Christ-centered values and compassion.

4. Engaging Teaching Strategies:

   • The curriculum uses innovative and practical teaching strategies, including case studies, role-playing, and interactive discussions, to provide a hands-on approach to learning pastoral counseling.

Program Structure and Delivery

• Flexible Learning Format: The non-residential, off-campus nature of the program allows students to study at their own pace while engaging with the coursework through online lectures, readings, and assignments.

• Interactive Learning: The program combines theory with practice, offering real-world applications through case studies, assignments, and practical counseling techniques.

• Assessment: Students will be assessed through a combination of assignments, case studies, practical counseling exercises, and written exams.

Who Should Apply?

The PG Diploma in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology is designed for individuals who:

• Church Leaders and Pastoral Staff: Pastors, ministry leaders, and church workers who want to improve their ability to provide pastoral care, counseling, and emotional support to their congregations.
• Aspiring Counselors: Individuals seeking to enter the field of counseling within educational, religious, or social settings, particularly those interested in integrating psychological principles with spiritual care.
• Social Workers and Educators: Professionals working in social services, educational institutions, and community organizations who wish to gain counseling skills to support individuals in their care.
• Marriage and Family Therapists: Those interested in specializing in relationship counseling, helping couples and families address emotional and relational issues.
• Individuals Passionate About Mental Health and Well-Being: Those with a desire to promote mental health, emotional growth, and well-being in their communities, particularly in the context of faith-based settings.

Admission Requirements

• Educational Background:

  • Applicants should have completed at least 12 years of formal education or its equivalent.
  • A Bachelor's degree in theology, social sciences, or any related field is typically required. Candidates from other educational backgrounds may be considered based on relevant work experience.

• English Proficiency:

  • Proficiency in the English language is required to understand lectures, complete assignments, and take exams.

• Church Membership:

  • Applicants must be active members of a church and provide a letter of reference from their pastor or church leader.

• Ministry Involvement:

  • Candidates should be involved in ministry work or have a demonstrated commitment to serving others through Christian leadership and pastoral care.

Benefits of the Program

• Holistic Training: The PGDPCP program provides students with a combination of pastoral and psychological counseling techniques, preparing them to serve in various professional settings.

• Practical Application: Students will be trained to apply counseling techniques in real-world contexts, enhancing their ability to support individuals and communities through challenging situations.

• Faith-Based Perspective: The program integrates Christian principles with counseling practice, offering a unique approach that combines psychological care with spiritual support.

• Flexible Learning: The non-residential, off-campus format allows students to continue with their personal and professional lives while earning the diploma.

• Global Relevance: The skills learned in this program are applicable not only in India but globally, equipping students to engage with diverse cultures and communities in need of pastoral care and psychological support.

Application Information

• Enrollment Period: For the 2025-2026 academic year, applications are now being accepted.

• Application Process:

  • Applicants must submit an application form along with educational transcripts, a letter of reference from their pastor, and proof of ministry involvement.
  • Download from our college site

The PG Diploma in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology offers a unique and practical educational experience that empowers students to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. By specializing in educational counseling, marriage and family counseling, and crisis counseling, this program equips graduates with the skills to become transformational leaders in church and secular settings, helping to foster mental health and well-being from a holistic, faith-centered perspective.