Advanced Diploma of Theology

Why study this course?

The Advanced Diploma of Theology

• introduces students to the sources and content of the Christian story and message, and provides training which emphasises application and articulation of this story and message in the contemporary world.
• has a focus on units in Old Testament, New Testament, Theology, and Church History.
• provides a grounding for ministry by establishing a foundation in theological knowledge and reflection.
• Through elective units students can develop practical ministry skills.

Course Delivery

Units will be taught in hybrid mode, i.e., students can attend class in-person on campus or attend online.

Course Structure

144 credit points (1.5 years full-time or up to 8 years part-time)

132 credit points are undertaken at AQF Level 6. At least 12 credit points must be undertaken at AQF Level 6.

Full-Time Study

The Advanced Diploma of Theology can be studied full-time by studying 48 credit points per semester (= 4 x 12 credit point units per semester).

Part-Time Study

Students can also opt to study the Advanced Diploma of Theology part-time by studying a minimum of unit per semester.

Time committment

Each 12 credit point unit requires 150 demand hours. This includes 36 hours of class time plus additional time for completing required readings as well researching for and writing your assignments.

Each 8 credit point unit requires 100 demand hours. This includes 24 hours of class time plus additional time for completing required readings as well researching for and writing your assignments.

Admission Requirements

The Advanced Diploma courses are Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 6 awards. The Advanced Diploma courses also require students to complete units at AQF level 5 and at least 2 units at AQF level 6 or above.

The admission requirement are:

• ATAR: Completion of Year 12 with an ATAR of 65 or above; OR
• Previous Qualifications: Successful completion of a qualification at AQF Level 5 or above; OR
• Demonstrate Academic Suitability for course: Test, brief essay, or interview.

Language Qualifications for Non-English Speaking Background (NESB) students: IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum of 6.0 in each subtest OR 10 years in Australia with English being the language primarily spoken both at home and work.

For further information, refer to the ACT’s Coursework Course Enrolment Policy.

Course Learning Outcomes

Discipline Knowledge and Understanding

1. Demonstrate a wider range of knowledge of the Bible and Christian Thought & History as academic disciplines
2. Apply the key spiritual and ethical implications of biblical and theological knowledge and understanding

Inquiry and Analysis

3. Collect, summarise, and analyse information from a wider range of biblical and theological sources and scholarship in inquiry based learning

Problem Solving and Integration

4. Construct evidence-based perspectives and responses to key biblical and theological issues by using a wider range of source materials and methods

Communication

5. Present key biblical and theological ideas, knowledge and principles to, and engage with, different audiences using a variety of formats

Teamwork and Professional Practice

6. Under supervision, apply key biblical and theological understanding in formal ministry contexts and the wider community

Engagement With the World

7. Engage with the key challenges of contemporary Christianity, society and the wider world

Continuous Learning and Professional Development

8. Demonstrate a capacity for reflection and learning to sustain personal and professional development in Christian life and ministry