Ashland Theological Seminary adds Master of Arts in Pastoral Care Studies to offerings

ASHLAND, Ohio – Ashland Theological Seminary (ATS), a graduate division of Ashland University, is pleased to announce its ninth master’s degree program—Master of Arts in Pastoral Care Studies—beginning in the fall semester of 2026.

“We are thrilled to add an M.A. in Pastoral Care Studies degree. This in-demand program reflects Ashland’s commitment to preparing compassionate, thoughtful leaders who can bring healing and hope to many in their most vulnerable moments,“ stated Dr. Jon Parrish Peede, president of Ashland University and Ashland Theological Seminary. “We are proud to expand our offerings in a way that strengthens the church and serves the public good.”

Tailored to those interested in vocational preparation for ministry-based caregiving roles, such as pastoral support staff or lay caregivers, the M.A. in Pastoral Care Studies is a 37-credit program delivered to a face-to-face cohort with selected hybrid or online courses to support working ministry leaders. It is designed to be completed in two years.

This degree will provide the academic and professional training needed for persons to provide theologically grounded, spiritually integrated, non-clinical pastoral care to individuals, couples, families and communities within diverse ministry settings. It will equip students with the skills to effectively integrate theology and pastoral education into their ministerial practice.

Of note, the M.A. in Pastoral Care Studies emphasizes soul care, spiritual formation and pastoral presence rooted in Scripture theology and the Christian tradition, but it does not result in a professional counseling licensure.

“For more than 25 years, ATS has trained clinical counselors. In that time, we have seen an interest in those who would like to be the helpers, but do not feel the call to be a clinical counselor,” explained Yvonne Glass, Ph.D., executive dean and associate professor of counseling at ATS.

Glass added, “This degree offering will assist pastors, ministers and those within the church or non-profits who would like the skills and tools to serve their congregations and communities. It will also assist individuals as they navigate the scope of practice between pastoral care and clinical counseling. ATS exists to make modern day disciples. This degree offers another opportunity to fulfill our mission.”

ATS prepares students to be leaders and counselors in a wide variety of ministry and professional settings by offering a range of flexible degree programs. There are now nine master’s degrees to choose from and a doctor of ministry, as well as certificate programs in theological studies. For more information, visit seminary.ashland.edu.