AdventHealth University has announced the launch of a new Master of Arts in Clinical Ministry degree, set to begin in Fall 2026. The program aims to address the growing need for board-certified chaplains in health care settings.
C. Josef Ghosn, EdD, FACHE, president of AdventHealth University, stated, “We are pleased to be able to meet the needs of hospitals, hospices and other care environments by offering this Clinical Ministry degree and look forward to developing students equipped to address the spiritual, emotional, and ethical needs of patients and their loved ones. This is one of many ways AdventHealth University continues its commitment to playing a vital role in the health care workforce pipeline.”
The online graduate program focuses on theology, ethics, and psychology. Courses include Grief & Loss, Narrative Counseling, and World Religions. The curriculum is designed to provide foundational skills for spiritual care practice and can serve as preparation for certification through organizations such as the Board of Certified Chaplains Inc.
Hospital chaplaincy faces a shortage nationwide. There are about 20,000 professional health care chaplains in the United States currently, with projections indicating a 10 percent decrease by 2030 according to Chaplaincy Innovation Lab.
Research shows that chaplains have an impact on patient experience and clinical outcomes by supporting patients during end-of-life discussions or difficult diagnoses.
Ramona Reynolds, MDiv, MHA, vice president of ministry education and spiritual integration strategy and research for AdventHealth said: “Chaplains play such a vital role in whole-person care. Countless AdventHealth patients and their families have been aided and supported by chaplains in ways that statistics can’t fully capture. Hope and healing can be defined in so many ways.”
Eight faculty members will teach within this new program.
Andy Lampkin, PhD, professor and chair of AdventHealth University’s Department of Religion and Spiritual Care said: “This degree is unique, set apart from a theology or pastoral degree. At AdventHealth University, we want to help nurture the next generation of chaplains who will display ethical discernment and spiritual sensitivity and an informed respect for diverse beliefs.”
The degree may appeal to professionals working in social work, mental health fields or public health as well as volunteers involved with church or health care settings. The program can be completed in four trimesters.
AdventHealth Orlando is located in Orlando, Florida. Founded in 1908 it serves as both a pediatric hospital ward provider and training hospital under current president Terry Shaw.
More information about applying can be found at Online Master of Arts in Clinical Ministry | AdventHealth University.
