Program Summary
The Bachelor of Science in Sociology: Vocational Chaplaincy is a transformative degree program that equips students to serve as compassionate spiritual leaders across a variety of professional fields. This program blends biblical theology, pastoral care training, and social science theory to prepare chaplains for impactful service within hospitals, correctional facilities, the military, nonprofits, schools, and other institutions where emotional, spiritual, and social support is needed.
Designed for those with a calling toward chaplaincy, teaching, intercession, or social ministry, this program emphasizes the care side of spiritual service. Students will develop character, compassion, and communication skills while studying human behavior, spiritual formation, crisis response, cultural sensitivity, and social justice. They will also receive foundational instruction in the sociological imagination, cultural norms, and the role of faith within public institutions.
Graduates will leave prepared to serve as vocational chaplains, providing faith-based support in environments where traditional ministry may not always be accessible. Students are also equipped to pursue the 5-Fold Chaplaincy Board Certification as an optional next step in their journey.
Program Overview
This degree integrates the study of chaplaincy and applied sociology to train students to become spiritual caregivers who understand both theological truths and human social behavior. Students will explore key topics such as:
- The biblical and theological foundations of chaplaincy
- The nature of emotional and spiritual care in vocational settings
- Sociological theory and collective behavior
- Death, tragedy, and bereavement support
- Cultural competency and ethics in ministry
- Spiritual guidance and pastoral visitation
In addition to theological study, the curriculum includes a deep dive into sociological models of stratification, justice, cultural differences, and the development of social institutions. Students will explore how cultural history, power dynamics, and group behavior shape human experiences—and how faith can intervene for healing and hope.
This program is ideal for those seeking to build a ministry that addresses the emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of others through chaplaincy, social work, or outreach leadership.
Career Field
Graduates of the Sociology: Vocational Chaplaincy program will be prepared to serve in numerous ministry and care-related settings. Potential roles include:
- Vocational Chaplain (hospital, military, prison, or first responder units)
- Spiritual Care Coordinator
- Bereavement or Grief Counselor
- Family Ministry Leader
- Church-Based Daycare or Youth Worker
- Community Outreach Leader
- Social Work Assistant in Faith-Based Organizations
- Missions Ministry Chaplain or Support Specialist
- Gerontology or Elder Care Chaplain
- College or Campus Chaplain
This program also prepares students to work in multicultural environments and address the needs of diverse communities with empathy, theological clarity, and emotional intelligence.
Program Details: Sociology – Vocational Chaplaincy (B.S.)
- Program Code: SVC300
- Degree Level: Bachelor’s
- Program Duration: 48 Months
- Total Credit Hours: 120.00
- Delivery Method: Flex (Online Instructor-Led & Self-Paced)
Fee Structure
- Tuition Cost: $4,999.00
- Application Fee (Enrollment Fee): $150.00 (Non-refundable)
- Books and Supplies: $250.00
- Graduation Fee: $299.00
- Total Program Cost: $5,698.00
Program Highlights
- Unique integration of chaplaincy care and social behavioral sciences
- Equips students with sociological tools for ministry in real-world environments
- Emphasis on emotional care, biblical justice, and intercultural ministry
- Pathway to 5-Fold Chaplaincy Board Certification
- Ideal for students called to spiritual care in vocational and non-traditional settings