Chaplain Credential
Board Certified Associate Chaplain
BCAC
Designed for qualified chaplains who have completed four courses of Clinical Pastoral Education and meet CPEI’s educational and credentialing requirements.
Credentialing
Professional credentialing for chaplains and CPE Supervisor-Educators.
CPEI credentialing recognizes qualified professionals who demonstrate the education, formation, experience, competencies and professional standards required for chaplaincy and CPE supervision.
Professional Recognition
CPEI provides credentialing pathways for chaplains, Supervisor-Educators and Training Supervisor-Educators. Each credential has defined educational, professional, documentation and competency requirements.
Candidates review the requirements for the credential they are seeking, submit the required application and supporting materials, and complete the applicable credentialing review process.
The CPEI Credentialing Manual is the authoritative source for current eligibility requirements, competencies, application materials and review procedures.
Credentialing Pathways
Requirements vary by credential. Review the current Credentialing Manual before beginning an application.
Chaplain Credential
BCAC
Designed for qualified chaplains who have completed four courses of Clinical Pastoral Education and meet CPEI’s educational and credentialing requirements.
Chaplain Credential
BCC
For qualified chaplains who meet CPEI’s graduate theological education, Clinical Pastoral Education, endorsement and competency requirements.
Educator Credential
SE
For qualified professionals who have completed supervisory education and demonstrate competency in CPE supervision, teaching, evaluation and educational leadership.
Advanced Educator Credential
TSE
An advanced credential for experienced Supervisor-Educators who meet additional requirements for training and developing supervisory candidates.
Start Here
Review CPEI credentialing pathways, eligibility requirements and information for beginning an application.
Get CredentialedApplication & Review
Learn how applications, supporting materials, credentialing review and panel interviews fit together.
View the ProcessCosts
Review current application, credentialing, review, renewal and other applicable fees.
View FeesDocuments
Access credentialing forms and the Credentialing Manual for detailed requirements, competencies and procedures.
Credentialing Review
Credentialing candidates submit required written materials for review before meeting by video with credentialing reviewers. The panel provides an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate competency, discuss professional formation and integrate their education, experience and practice.
Candidates should carefully review the current Credentialing Manual and complete all required materials before registering for a panel.
Credentialing Resources
Maintain your credential, learn about religious endorsement, find credentialed professionals or review frequently asked questions.
Review continuing education, annual requirements, documentation and responsibilities for maintaining an active CPEI credential.
Maintaining Your CredentialsLearn about ecclesiastical or religious endorsement and its role in chaplain credentialing and professional practice.
Religious Endorsing BodiesSearch for chaplains and educators holding credentials through CPEI.
Search the DirectoryFind answers to common questions about applications, requirements, documentation, review panels and renewal.
Credentialing FAQsOngoing Professional Responsibility
Credentialed members are responsible for maintaining applicable continuing education, annual fees, ecclesiastical or religious endorsement and other requirements established by CPEI.
Before You Apply
Completion of CPEI education does not by itself guarantee professional credentialing. Applicants must meet the educational, professional, endorsement, documentation and competency requirements for the credential sought.
Before applying, review the current Credentialing Manual, confirm your eligibility and gather the required materials. Contact the Credentialing team if you have questions about equivalency, endorsement or your appropriate credentialing pathway.
Need Assistance?
CPEI can help you identify the appropriate credentialing pathway, understand requirements and locate the forms or resources you need.