Apply to Become a Humanist Chaplain

The Humanist Society offers different endorsement options. Read through our various levels and apply today!

Aspirant Chaplain

$ 40 00 Application Fee
  • Currently pursuing MDiv or equivalent education from accredited institution
  • Currently pursuing Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
  • Aspire to become a Humanist Chaplain
  • An understanding of, and a curiosity to learn more about, humanism
  • Ability to work in interfaith settings
  • Understanding of Aspirant Chaplain role
  • Plan for using endorsement
  • Continual Membership with the American Humanist Association
  • $40 Application Fee
  • $100 Annual Professional Fee (after approval)
Get Started
Aspirant Chaplains are initially endorsed for a 2 years. During that 2 year period, they are required to learn more about humanism and chaplaincy, gaining a better understanding of the Humanist Chaplain role. At the 2-year renewal, the Aspirant Chaplain may elect to renew at the Aspirant level, upgrade to Standard or Advanced, depending on their progress toward educational requirements, or elect to not renew at any level.

Standard Chaplain

$ 40 00 Application Fee
  • MDiv or equivalent degree from accredited institution
  • At least 1 unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) completed
  • Demonstrates experience providing emotional and spiritual support for crisis, grief, and/or trauma
  • Strong understanding of humanism and commitment to humanist values
  • Ability to work in interfaith settings
  • Understanding of Chaplain role
  • Plan for using endorsement
  • Continual Membership with the American Humanist Association
  • $40 Application Fee
  • $100 Annual Professional Fee (after approval)
Get Started
Individuals endorsed as Standard Chaplains have completed a Masters of Divinity (MDiv) or equivalent degree and at least one unit of CPE or supervised ministry.

Chaplains are encouraged to pursue certification through a national chaplaincy board.

Advanced Chaplain

$ 40 00 Application Fee
  • MDiv or equivalent degree from accredited institution
  • Completed 4 or more units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
  • Demonstrates experience providing emotional and spiritual support for crisis, grief, and/or trauma
  • Strong understanding of humanism and commitment to humanist values
  • Ability to work in interfaith settings
  • Strong understanding of Chaplain role
  • Plan for using endorsement
  • Continual Membership with the American Humanist Association
  • $40 Application Fee
  • $100 Annual Professional Fee (after approval)
Get Started
Advanced Chaplains have completed a Masters of Divinity (MDiv) or equivalent degree and four or more units of CPE.

Chaplains are encouraged to pursue certification through a national chaplaincy board.

The Process:

Complete Application

Submit your application online.
Step 01

Request References

During the application you will be asked to send a form to 3 references.
Step 02

Pay Fees

Pay your Application Fee
Join or Verify your AHA Membership.
Step 03

Interview

Staff will reach out to schedule a phone interview.
Step 04

Board Review

The Board of Directors will review your packet and vote
Step 05

Pay Professional Fee

Once approved by the Board, your professional fee will be due.
Step 06
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