
Chuck DeGroat
Professor of Pastoral Care and Christian Spirituality
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should consider the GCPM- Soul Care program?
Anyone involved in leadership (whether marketplace or ministry) will gain tools and strength in the art and practice of soul care and ministry.
Do I have to hold a Bachelor’s degree to enter?
Normally, WTS requires a Bachelor’s degree to enroll in courses. In some cases, students who have not yet completed a Bachelor’s degree are permitted to enroll as GCPM students. Interested persons should contact Jill English or Rev. Joseph Ocasio to discuss their particular situations.
Can I take courses at night? On weekends?
WTS Classes are taken online or a combination of online and in-person, so it is a matter of fitting the coursework into your own schedule.
What are the professors like? Are they actively involved in ministry?
The professors for the GCPM program minister primarily as seminary professors, although several have served as pastors and many contribute to adult education in local churches.
Will I have access to professors, the library and other services?
Seminary offices are often during business hours, and the library has extended hours (although access is available online 24/7) Students have access to the services they need to succeed in their studies.
What if my own theology is different than that which WTS embraces?
WTS is an institution which values its identity as ecumenical and evangelical, welcoming students from a number of Christian theological traditions. While WTS is Reformed in its theological identity, many current students in the GCPM and other study programs hold membership in non-Reformed denominations.
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available to students accepted into the GCPM program who demonstrate financial need through application. Students interested in financial aid should request a financial aid application.
Are classes in the GCPM program graduate level courses?
Yes, each course in the GCPM program at WTS is taught at the graduate level and earns students three Master’s level credits.
Are the credits transferable into a Master’s program?
Each successfully-completed course earns the GCPM student three credits, which may be transferable into Master of Divinity programs at accredited seminaries. Students who complete the entire GCPM will earn 24 Master’s credits, which can then apply to the credit requirements for the Master of Divinity (96 cr) or Master of Arts (48 cr) programs at WTS.
Professor of Pastoral Care and Christian Spirituality
Director of the Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Ministry and Hispanic Ministry Programs