
Online Certification for Spiritual Directors
At A Glance
Semester credit hours
3
Accreditation
ATS (Association of Theological Schools), NWCCU
Application Deadlines
Rolling application deadline: apply now
* Based on taking 1 credit hour per term in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
** All stated financial information is subject to change. Certificate programs are not eligible for federal financial aid.
Spiritual Direction certification is for those of you who have already completed training as a spiritual director and desire certification.
We offer biblical and Christ-centered training from experienced and certified spiritual directors who serve as supervisors through the certification process.
Pursue this Certification if ...
- You wish to practice spiritual direction vocationally
- You wish to increase the professional value of your calling in spiritual direction
Format
All certification credits (SFAD 576, SFAD 577, & SFAD 578) are fully online.
Certification Prerequisites & Details
This certification is open to students who have completed a spiritual direction training either at an ATS-accredited institution or a spiritual direction training program (usually an 18- to 24-month program). If you qualify, you can apply now!
If you do not meet these requirements, you can apply for our Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation degree or Spiritual Formation Certificate, either of which would allow you to continue into the Spiritual Direction Certification following completion.
Within this certification, you will:
-
Complete 30 hours of spiritual direction with at least three persons over one year
-
Receive 10 hours of supervision and a written recommendation from your spiritual-direction supervisor after all supervision and direction hours are complete
Note: There is a course fee for SFAD 576, 577, & 578 to cover the cost of contracting with program selected spiritual directors and supervisors.
Certification for Spiritual Directors Requirements
Complete the following:

Admission Requirements
Students must have completed one of the following to be admitted to the Certification for Spiritual Directors program:
- A spiritual direction training program at an ATS-accredited institution
- Portland Seminary's two-year Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation degree
- Portland Seminary's two-year Spiritual Formation Certificate