Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry

The Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry builds on the Diploma in Theology by enabling students to deepen their understanding of the key theological disciplines of Biblical Studies and Christian Thought and History and in Ministry. This is extended by further study in those disciplines and in the area of practical ministry studies. It may be possible for students to undertake study in a ministry setting as part of the course.

 

Overseas students

Study modes

Classroom, Mixed, Online

Duration

2 years full-time
Up to 8 years part-time

 

Sample Course Structure

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 Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry consists of 288 points of study:

  1. 18 points in the disciplines of Old Testament;
  2. 18 points in the discipline of New Testament;
  3. 18 points in the discipline of Church History;
  4. 18 points in the discipline of Systematic Theology;
  5. 36 points in the discipline of Practical Theology;
  6. 36 points in the fields of Biblical Studies and/or Christian Thought and History; and
  7. a further 144 points of study.

 

Unit ID Unit Field/Discipline
DA1011W

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

DA Mission & Ministry
DP1103W

DP1103W Introduction to Pastoral Theology

DP Pastoral Theology and Ministry Studies

2 Units from the Fields of Biblical Studies and/or Christian Thought and History

Capstone Other

8 Units of Choice

Unit of Choice
CT1001W

CT1001W Beginning Theological Studies

CT Systematic Theology
CH1011W

CH1011W Early Christianity in Context

CH Church History
BN1001W

BN1001W Interpreting the New Testament 

BN New Testament
BA1001W

BA1011W Introducing the Hebrew Bible

BA Old Testament

The Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry consists of 288 points of study:

  1. 18 points in the disciplines of Old Testament;
  2. 18 points in the discipline of New Testament;
  3. 18 points in the discipline of Church History;
  4. 18 points in the discipline of Systematic Theology;
  5. 36 points in the discipline of Practical Theology;
  6. 36 points in the fields of Biblical Studies and/or Christian Thought and History; and
  7. a further 144 points of study.

 

Successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education in an Australian secondary school or the Diploma in Theology, or equivalent.

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 Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry 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 one to three units per semester. The Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry can be completed within the maximum 8 years allowed if students choose to enrol in 1 unit per semester.

Learning outcomes

Course achievements

Graduates of the Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry:
1) have significant foundational skills for critical study of Christian texts;
2) have skills to articulate and reflect upon foundational theological, scriptural knowledge and apply this to ministry practice;
3) have strong analytical skills allowing them to analyse and communicate sound theological arguments, especially in relation to ministry tasks or worldview perspectives;
4) apply their skills and knowledge to their own and other contexts and traditions through culturally relevant ministry practices; and
5) apply their skills and knowledge to the service of others through practical engagement and in contexts such as practical support ministries or cultural and philosophical analysis.

 

Graduate Pathways

Future study options

Graduates may proceed to the Bachelor of Ministry or Bachelor of Theology.

Where will this take me?

Vocational Possibilities

Stacey Aslangul

Whitley broadened my thinking. It gave me permission to find my voice and opportunities to meet curious-minded students from different persuasions, worldviews and politics.

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.