CPE Application Hints and Tricks

The MDiv program at Luther Seminary requires many different applications, interviews and paperwork—entrancing, endorsement, internship, approval, psychological evaluations, jobs, etc.

Here’s some tips for applying to Clinical Pastoral Education.

1.Do CPE between your first (junior) and second (middler) years.

• You cannot do an international internship unless you get your CPE done before you even apply.
• You won’t want to be worrying about finding a CPE site in the middle of getting an internship site the winter of your middler year.

2. Apply early.

• If you want to do summer CPE, apply in the fall of the year before. Get your application mailed in before Christmas break.
• CPE sites in the Twin Cities fill up fast. The earlier you apply the greater chance you have of getting in.

3. Write a real application.

• Don’t plagiarize your previous admissions or entrance essays. The CPE supervisors know.
• CPE supervisors want a real picture of who you are. Be honest.
• Be clear about your learning goals. Demonstrate you are a self-directed learner.

4. If you apply at non-local sites…

• Arrange an interview with a local CPE supervisor. Get a copy of the summary and include it with your application.
• Retired CPE supervisors may conduct an interview for you.
• You may have to pay for an interview.
• Offer to arrange a phone interview.
• Follow up your hardcopy application with an email.

5. Be honest about your spiritual crises and developments.

• CPE operates on a theory of the “wounded healer.” One cannot help others in pain until they understand their own pain. Talk about times of pain.
• Think about how events—deaths, births, losses, transitions—have challenged your faith and brought up personal issues.
• Self-awareness is key.

Happy application process! I hope my advice will serve you well.