FAQs

Can I do this course online?
Yes. All courses are available via live-stream intensives as well as face-to-face options. The online format runs the same structured days (9am–5pm) as the in-person cohorts, so you participate in real time with your cohort rather than watching recordings at any time.

Are the intensives available to watch later if I cannot attend live?
The intensives are designed as live, interactive sessions — both online and in-person. If you have a scheduling conflict, contact us before enrolling to discuss what options may be available.

Where are the in-person locations?
In 2026, face-to-face cohorts are running right across Australia. See the full 2026 schedule at chaplaincyaustralia.com/training/2026-schedule 

I am in a state not listed — can I still participate?
Yes. The online national cohort is open to students across all states and territories. 

How long does the Cert IV take to complete?
The Cert IV in Chaplaincy & Pastoral Care runs across five intensive blocks spread over approximately 12 months. Each cohort has its own schedule — refer to the 2026 schedule page for exact dates for each location.

How long does the SCF or MCU take?
Both the School Chaplaincy Foundations and the Minister’s Chaplaincy Upgrade are delivered in a single three-day intensive. Assessments are completed online at your own pace after the intensive.

Can I study while working full-time?
Yes — the course is structured around block intensives rather than weekly classes, making it manageable alongside full-time work. Most students find the between-intensive assessment work is achievable in evenings and weekends.

Is the course self-paced?
The intensives run on set dates and require live attendance. The assessments that follow each intensive can be completed online at your own pace within the timeframe provided.

When does the next Cert IV cohort begin? 
Cohorts run at multiple locations throughout the year, with both in-person and online options available. Visit the 2026 Schedule page at chaplaincyaustralia.com/training/2026-schedule for current intake dates, or contact us and we’ll point you to the next available cohort that suits your location and timing.

When does the SCF run? 
The School Chaplaincy Foundations runs several times a year via online intensives. See the 2026 Schedule page at chaplaincyaustralia.com/training/2026-schedule for current dates, or contact us to register your interest.

When does the MCU run? 
The Minister’s Chaplaincy Upgrade runs periodically throughout the year. Visit the 2026 Schedule page at chaplaincyaustralia.com/training/2026-schedule for current dates, or contact us to be notified of upcoming intakes.

Is there a mid-year intake?
Yes — we run multiple intakes across the year, including mid-year options. Check the 2026 Schedule page at chaplaincyaustralia.com/training/2026-schedule or contact us to find the intake that best fits your timing.

I have existing qualifications — will they count towards the course?
RPL and credit transfer are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Commonly held qualifications such as Diplomas of Counselling, Community Services, or Social Work may be eligible for some unit exemptions. Contact us with your transcript and we will advise what is likely to be creditable.

Does RPL reduce the cost of the course?
Where RPL is granted, you would only be required to complete the remaining units, which would be reflected in your fees. Please speak with our team directly to understand how this would apply to your situation.

I completed some units with Alphacrucis — can I credit those?
Yes. Students who have previously completed units through Alphacrucis University College should contact us with their student number and transcript so we can assess what credit is applicable and advise on next steps.

What is the difference between the Cert IV, SCF, and MCU?
The Cert IV in Chaplaincy & Pastoral Care is the full qualification — 13 nationally accredited units covering the minimum requirement for most chaplaincy roles in schools, hospitals, aged care, prisons, and community contexts. The School Chaplaincy Foundations (SCF) covers just three units focused specifically on school chaplaincy and is suited to those starting out or needing a base-level entry qualification. The Minister’s Chaplaincy Upgrade (MCU) is designed for ordained pastors and ministers who want to formalise chaplaincy skills without repeating ministry foundations they already hold.

Is the SCF enough to get a school chaplain role?
The SCF provides the three mandatory units required for base-level entry into school chaplaincy. Some roles and employers may require the full Cert IV — we recommend checking the requirements of the specific role or employer you are targeting, and contacting us if you are unsure which pathway suits you.

If I complete the SCF first, can I continue to the full Cert IV later?
Yes. The three units in the SCF count towards the full Cert IV, so you would only need to complete the remaining units to achieve the full qualification. This is a recognised pathway for those who want to start with the SCF and build from there.

I’m a minister — do I need the full Cert IV or is the MCU enough?
The MCU is specifically designed for ordained ministers and pastors who already hold ministry qualifications and experience. It provides three focused chaplaincy units and is a faster, more targeted pathway. Whether it meets the requirements for a specific chaplaincy role will depend on that role’s employer — contact us to discuss your circumstances.

Is there a practical component to the course?
Yes. The Cert IV includes a practical placement component as part of the unit CHCPAS002 – Provide pastoral and spiritual care. This gives you real-world experience in a chaplaincy context.

Do I need to arrange my own placement?
Please contact us for current details on how placement is arranged. Some students are able to complete placement within their existing role or community context — speak with our team to understand what arrangements apply.

Do I need to be a Christian to enrol?
Our training is grounded in a Christian framework and the course includes a Code of Conduct that reflects that. We encourage anyone considering enrolment to review the course expectations with us before applying if they have questions about faith prerequisites — we are happy to have that conversation openly.

Do I need to be ordained or have church experience?
The Cert IV and SCF do not require ordination. The MCU is specifically designed for those with existing ministry credentials. If you are unsure which course fits your background, contact us and we will help you work it out.

Is there an age requirement?
Please contact us directly if you have questions about age eligibility — requirements may vary depending on your circumstances and the course you are considering.

Do I need a pastor’s reference to enrol?
Application requirements including references vary by course. Please contact us or complete the training enquiry form on our website and we will walk you through the enrolment process.

Is the Cert IV nationally recognised?
Yes. The Certificate IV in Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care (CHC42315) is a nationally accredited qualification delivered through Alphacrucis University College (RTO 90525). The qualification is recognised across Australia and is the minimum standard for most chaplaincy roles in schools, hospitals, aged care, prisons, and community settings.

Will this qualification get me a role as a school or hospital chaplain?
The Cert IV is the minimum qualification required for most chaplaincy roles in Australia. Individual employers — including SU Australia and other chaplaincy providers — may have additional requirements, so we recommend checking directly with the organisation you are hoping to work with.