The Master of Divinity program prepares students to engage fully and with confidence in ministry, chaplaincy, and related professions as well as further academic work. The program fosters a nuanced understanding of Buddhism in its aim to develop skilled, thoughtful and effective leaders. Field Education is critical to the aims of this program by providing an immersive approach to real world involvement.
FIELD EDUCATION (FE): FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General Questions
When can I start field education? Am I eligible to take FE-2401 “Intro to Field Education”?
All field education courses are intended for MDiv students who have completed at least one year of IBS study or the equivalent. We recommend that fulltime MDiv students take field education in their second year or after completing at least 12 academic credits at IBS. Start talking to the FE Director 6 months to 1 year before you plan to start field education, as it can take that long to apply for and onboard at field sites/CPE programs.
How much field education do I need in order to graduate from the MDiv program?
MDiv students are required to complete a minimum of 6 field education credits before they graduate.
MDiv students can earn up to a maximum of 9 field education credits.
I am not an IBS MDiv student, can I take field education with you?
No, field education courses are only open to IBS degree students, and intended for our MDiv program. It is one component of what distinguishes the IBS MDiv program from the MABS.
How do I choose a field site?
We recommend that students choose field sites in line with their future vocational interests or goals after finishing the IBS MDiv. Field sites should be selected in consultation with the FE Director. We want to ensure you are connected with a quality site and have an on-site supervisor available who you can meet with regularly and oversee your work. For field site ideas, see the list of Approved Field Education Sites. Start talking to the FE Director 6 months to 1 year before you plan to start field education, as it can take that long to apply for and onboard at field sites/CPE programs.
How many hours do I need to work at my field site?
You will need to complete a minimum of 50 hours at your field site every semester that you are registered for a FE class. This means you will be going in regularly a half day every week or full day every other week.
Does driving time and onboarding training count towards my field site hours?
No, driving time and orientation onboarding does not count towards your field site hours.
Can I complete all my field site hours at a congregation or temple?
MDiv students may complete up to 1 semester of field education at a congregation or temple. The second semester of field education for ministerial students should be completed at a non-congregational site like a hospital, hospice, non-profit, or through CPE. We want our ministerial students to have experience in interreligious settings as well as other industries or fields (esp. medical) so that they can have the flexibility and breadth of skills to better serve their communities.
Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
Do I have to complete CPE in order to finish the MDiv program at IBS?
No, there are other ways to fulfill the Field Education requirement for MDiv students.
I need help selecting a CPE program, writing my CPE application, and/or preparing for the interview. Who can I talk to?
The field education director is available as a resource should you need guidance throughout the CPE application process. Before setting up a meeting with the FE Director, consult the list of CPE sites that IBS students have graduated from as well as Peter Yuichi Clark’s 10 Commandments for Applying to CPE. Students are also encouraged to talk to other IBS students who have CPE experience.
Can I get academic credit for CPE if I am not a current MDiv student?
No, academic credit for CPE is only offered to MDiv students because they are the only ones who require field education to graduate.
I am a current MDiv student who completed my CPE prior to IBS. Can I receive academic credit for CPE to apply towards my MDiv degree requirements?
It depends on how long ago you completed your CPE program as well as what your ministerial or chaplaincy goals are. Please consult with the FE Director.
I am currently in a CPE program, when should I register for FE-3400 “Advanced Field Education: CPE”?
Towards the end of your CPE program, when you will have your supervisor final evaluation ready. We typically recommend students register for FE-3400 at the same time that they take their other required FE class to allow optimal integration of their CPE learning with the MDiv program. Meet with the FE Director to discuss. You will need the FE Director’s approval before you can register for FE-3400.
Does FE-3400 “Advanced Field Education: CPE” have a class component?
No, FE-3400 does not have a class component at IBS. All educational and clinical time is done through your CPE program. However, you are expected to be checking in with the FE Director regularly during your CPE program. At the end of the CPE unit, you will submit your ACPE supervisor’s final evaluation as well as your own final self evaluation in order to receive academic credit for the course.
Do I have to pay tuition for FE-3400 “Advanced Field Education: CPE”?
Yes, if you want IBS to grant you academic credit for your CPE program. Like all other field education courses, FE-3400 is billed at the field education rate, which is a reduced tuition rate compared to other IBS classes. See the Tuition and Fees for the current field education rate per unit.