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 6 credits of field education by taking these two classes:
- FE-2401 “Introduction to Field Education” (fall)
- FE-2421 “Spiritual Reflection in Context” (spring)
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.
What is your policy regarding Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) as it relates to the MDiv degree and the field education requirement?
IBS does not offer academic credit for CPE. In some cases, MDiv students who have completed CPE and/or are currently enrolled in CPE may be eligible to waive their FE volunteer hours. See the FE Handbook and consult with the FE Director for more details.