PhD in Pastoral Studies/Counseling (PhD)

The tuition fee is 14,418 USD per year.

This field studies the theory and principles of pastoral care. Students learn pastoral leadership, counseling psychology, crisis intervention, pastoral care, and theological and spiritual counseling.

It prepares ordained clergy to provide non-clinical pastoral counseling to individuals and groups. The training also applies to specific types of ministry.

For international students, tuition is well below the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 94% of applicants.

Eastern University is based at 1300 Eagle Road in St. Davids, Pennsylvania, and brings together the College of Arts and Humanities, College of Business and Leadership, College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, College of Health and Science, Esperanza College, Templeton Honors College, and Palmer Theological Seminary and College. Its academic programs connect faith, reason, and justice across more than 160 associate, bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and seminary offerings. Undergraduate students can select from more than 95 areas of study, including bachelor's degrees, minors, and pre-professional options.

Graduate students can choose from more than 65 areas of study, with master's, doctoral, seminary, and certification programs available through online and evening formats. Eastern also provides online undergraduate programs for working adults, alongside blended learning options and the Eastern FastPass pathway, which allows students to graduate in three years. Additional academic opportunities include the Templeton Honors College, Leadership Fellows Program, and Goode Scholars Program.

Student life includes clubs and organizations, faith and service activities, athletics, fitness facilities, and academic support through counseling, disability and access services, the Academic Resource Center, and health and wellness resources. Chapel is held weekly during the academic year. International students considering programs connected to professional licensure should be aware that requirements vary between states and may differ from Pennsylvania requirements.