Internship Types

The Internship is designed to enhance the students’ formation by expanding their communities of learning beyond the theological classroom. Students are placed in diverse sites where they cultivate the habit of regular, theological reflection on their practical ministry with a trained, experienced community mentor, church members, a mental health consultant, a peer cohort and an Intern faculty. There are four types of Internship sites: Agency, Church Staff, Student Pastor and Clinical Pastoral Education.

Agency Interns

A nonprofit organization serving the community such as community centers, entrepreneur ministries, campus ministries and shelters for vulnerable populations. Students serve in a variety of roles.

Church Staff Interns

A congregation that offers the Intern the opportunity to serve as a member of the pastoral staff under the supervision of an experienced clergy. 

Student Pastor Interns

A congregation where the Intern is the pastor. Students are assigned a Mentor Pastor for the Internship by the Intern Program and the congregation agrees to become a Perkins Teaching Congregation.

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Interns

An accredited Clinical Pastoral Education Program housed within a hospital that provides training for a vocation in chaplaincy. Students interested in chaplaincy or pastoral care are served best by a CPE placement.