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Bachelor of Theology

The Bachelor of Theology critically examines life and faith through the study of scriptures, theological traditions and historical contexts. It aims to broaden self-understanding and facilitate cultural engagement. The Bachelor of Theology assists students to develop knowledge across broad areas of theology and depth in particular areas of interest. It develops research and communication skills and prepares graduates for further theological study. It may be possible for students to undertake study in a ministry setting as part of the course.

Overseas students

CRICOS Available

Study modes

Classroom, Mixed, Online

Duration

3 years full-time
Up to 9 years part-time

"Whitley provided a sharp and diverse learning environment to contextualise my perspective & understanding of faith in conversation with others, some of whom had similar and others who had different perspectives and understandings to my own. I found the extensive range of practical ministry-related subjects to be formative in my own continuing maturation as a follower of Jesus and Pastor."
Rev Mike Riddell

Sample Course Structure

1 Unit

DA1011W Witness, Service and Discipleship: Mission in Many Places and Many Voices
1 Unit

DP1103W Introduction to Pastoral Theology
1 Unit

CT1001W Beginning Theological Studies
1 Unit

CH1011W Early Christianity in Context
3 Units

3 Systematic Theology Units
1 Unit

1 Church History Unit
1 Unit

BA1001W Introducing the Hebrew Bible
1 Unit

BN1001W Interpreting the New Testament
2 Units

2 Biblical Studies Units
1 Unit

XX3900W Capstone: Theology and Ministry
11 Units

11 Units of Choice

NOTE: The information presented in this graphic is a general guide and not a substitute for personal course advice with a Course Advisor. Please click the links on the legend to read about Whitley College units that may be included in this course.

Course details

The Bachelor of Theology consists of 432 points comprised of:

  1. 72 points in Biblical Studies (at least 18 points in each Testament);
  2. 36 points in Church History;
  3. 72 points in Systematic Theology;
  4. 36 points in Mission and Ministry;
  5. 18 points Capstone unit; and
  6. a further 198 points.

Each course of study for the Bachelor of Theology:

  1. must not include more than 216 points at Level 1; and
  2. must contain at least 108 points at Level 3 (including at least 36 points at Level 3 in either Biblical Studies or Systematic Theology).
Unit ID Unit Field/Discipline
DA1011W

DA1011W Witness, Service and Discipleship: Mission in Many Places and Many Voices

 DA Mission & Ministry
DP1103W

DP1103W Introduction to Pastoral Theology

 DP Pastoral Theology and Ministry Studies
CT1001W

CT1001W Beginning Theological Studies

 CT Systematic Theology
CH1011W

CH1011W Early Christianity in Context

 CH Church History

3 Systematic Theology Units

 CT Systematic Theology

1 Church History Unit

 CH Church History

11 Units of Choice

 Unit of Choice
XX3900W

XX3900W Capstone: Theology and Ministry

 Capstone Other

2 Biblical Studies Units

 Field B (Biblical Studies)
BN1001W

BN1001W Interpreting the New Testament

 BN New Testament
BA1001W

BA1001W Introducing the Hebrew Bible

 BA Old Testament

The Bachelor of Theology consists of 432 points comprised of:

  1. 72 points in Biblical Studies (at least 18 points in each Testament);
  2. 36 points in Church History;
  3. 72 points in Systematic Theology;
  4. 36 points in Mission and Ministry;
  5. 18 points Capstone unit; and
  6. a further 198 points.

Each course of study for the Bachelor of Theology:

  1. must not include more than 216 points at Level 1; and
  2. must contain at least 108 points at Level 3 (including at least 36 points at Level 3 in either Biblical Studies or Systematic Theology).

Successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education or equivalent. Persons aged 21 or greater who have not completed the Victorian Certificate of Education may be considered for probationary admission to the Diploma in Theology as a pathway towards admission to the Bachelor of Theology.

All applicants must meet the English admission requirements of the University of Divinity as outlined in the Admissions Policy.

 

Students have 3 hours of class time per standard unit they are enrolled in across the 12 teaching weeks of semester.

Students should allow an additional 7 hours for study and assessment tasks per week for each unit they are enrolled in – that is 10 hours per unit per week.

The full-time study load for the Bachelor of Theology is 4 units per semester which is a commitment of 40 hours per week.

Depending on the time available for study, students can choose to study part-time by enrolling in 2 to 3 units per semester, ensuring they complete the 24 units required within the 9 years permitted.

Learning outcomes

Course achievements

Graduates of the Bachelor of Theology:

  1. have a broad, coherent and critical knowledge of Christian theological traditions and methodologies, with focused knowledge in at least one area;
  2. can articulate the knowledge they have acquired to generate insights and communicate them through clear reasoned argument;
  3. are able to engage theological traditions and contemporary culture; and
  4. have a theologically informed basis for engagement and service in community and world.

Graduate Pathways

Future study options

Graduates have access to a range of postgraduate courses at Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and Masters levels.

Where will this take me?

Vocational Possibilities

Rev Mike Riddell

Whitley provided a sharp and diverse learning environment to contextualise my perspective & understanding of faith in conversation with others, some of whom had similar and others who had different perspectives and understandings to my own. I found the extensive range of practical ministry-related subjects to be formative in my own continuing maturation as a follower of Jesus and Pastor.
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FAQs

Fees

Key Dates

Timetable

Ready for your next step?

If theological education has been on your mind, there’s no better place to start your journey than by stepping out in faith with us at Whitley.

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How to Apply