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Frequently Asked Questions

JFSD participants discussing a topic

  • When do new cohorts start?

    We offer rolling admission, so students can join the program at any time. Before beginning a supervision practice, however, you must complete the course 鈥淐ontemplative Listening.鈥 This course is offered each year in the late summer or early fall.

  • Do I have to apply to the program to take the courses?

    While the application is not required to enroll in a course, if you decide to pursue the certificate, you must complete the application before beginning supervision. 

  • Can I take just one course to try it out?

    Yes! You can enroll in any course to see if Spiritual Direction is right for you.

  • What if I already have a Spiritual Direction Certificate?

    Current Spiritual Directors can enroll in any of our courses for Professional Development 鈥 no application required!

  • Are the courses available online?

    All of our courses are held synchronously online on Mondays (6-8pm Eastern/3-5pm Pacific).

  • How long does it take to earn a certificate?

    Students can learn at their own pace. The traditional route 鈥 including core courses and supervision 鈥 takes 22 months to complete. We understand that life is unpredictable, so we offer flexibility to lengthen your time as needed. 

  • Do I have to take all of the courses to earn a certificate?

    To earn a certificate, you must complete all eight core courses. Mini-courses are offered each summer to supplement your learning, though these are not required.

  • Do I need to take the courses in order?

    No, you can complete any course at any time. The only exception is that you must complete the course 鈥淐ontemplative Listening鈥 before starting your supervision.

  • How often are the courses offered?

    鈥淐ontemplative Listening鈥 is offered each year in the late summer or early fall. All other courses are offered every other year. For instance, 鈥淭rauma-Informed Spiritual Direction鈥 will be offered in Fall 2027 and again in Fall 2029.

  • What time commitment can I expect for each class?

    Courses are held synchronously on Mondays for 2 hours and run for 5 consecutive weeks. You can expect to read a total of 300-400 pages for each course (60-90 pages per week). A brief pre-work assignment is due on the first day of class followed by small weekly reflections marking your learning. Each course requires a longer final paper (750-1000 words) or project.

  • Do you offer accommodations for (dis)abilities?

    We make every reasonable effort to accommodate different learning styles and documented disabilities. Please be in touch with our program director to discuss your specific needs.

  • How do you handle payments?

    Fees are collected when you register for a course or a supervision package. This allows you to pay-as-you-go.

  • Do you offer scholarships?

    We do not offer any direct scholarships. Many students utilize professional development or continuing education funds provided through their employer or religious organization to cover part or all of a course. 

  • What if I have other questions?

    Please reach out to our program director for any other questions. We will be happy to email or  schedule a chat or video call.