Certificate Programs and Other Study Options

The GTU offers a variety of certificate programs designed for students who either want to explore theological study for a year before embarking upon a degree program, or who want to add an additional area of expertise to their degree. For some this is for a discernment opportunity, for others a way to enhance learning.  As these are graduate certificates, students entering must hold an accredited bachelor’s degree.

All applicants must submit official transcripts from institutions in which a degree was earned to the Admissions office. International students who have not earned a degree from an English-speaking institution are required to submit official TOEFL scores with an expected minimum score of 80 (internet based). Cost per course can be found on the tuition and fees page.

Certificate in Interreligious Chaplaincy

The Interreligious Chaplaincy Program provides the skills to meet the spiritual-care needs of increasingly diverse populations, while also offering expertise in religious traditions traditionally underrepresented among institutional chaplains. Students with a qualifying master's degree can earn a stand-alone certificate in interreligious chaplaincy.  

Online Certificate in Interreligious Studies

The Certificate in Interreligious Studies is the first fully online program offered by the GTU. Building on the GTU’s long-established leadership in interreligious scholarship, this program is tailored to meet the needs of today’s working professionals across a variety of sectors in the business and nonprofit arenas.The 10-month program includes five 7-week courses, all administered asynchronously and fully online.

Certificates for Degree or Non-Degree Students

These certificates can be pursued by students in degree programs across the GTU consortium, but are also open to direct enrollment outside of a degree program.
* Certificate in the Arts & Religion
* Certificate in Hindu Studies
* Certificate in Islamic Studies
* Certificate in Jewish Studies
* Certificate in Orthodox Christian Studies
* Certificate of Swedenborgian Studies

Certificates for Degree Students

These certificates can be pursued by students in a degree program at the GTU or its member schools.


* Certificate in Women’s Studies in Religion

Special Students

Prospective degree students who are not certain which degree program best suits their interests, community members, or individuals who may have missed an application deadline and want to begin course work may apply to the GTU or one of the member schools for Special Student status.

Summer Session

The Pacific School of Religion coordinates a Summer Session of one week courses from June through August for students in the GTU and other seminaries. 

Continuing Education

Some GTU courses may be of interest to community patrons or non-matriculated students who wish to take the course for personal fulfillment. Such courses may be linked to a regular for-credit course or may be completely independent. These courses do not come with an academic credit that can be counted toward a degree or certificate at the GTU.