Theology

Gain critical knowledge in key theological disciplines. Taught by world-class theologians, dive into the foundations of Biblical studies and Christian thought and history, while also having the opportunity study your personal fields of interest, including mission and ministry, pastoral care, leadership and more.

What you will learn

• Foundational skills for a critical study of Christian texts.
• Skills to articulate foundational theological and scriptural knowledge and reflection.
• Clear analytical skills allowing them to analyse and communicate sound theological arguments.
• How to apply your skills and knowledge to your own and other contexts and traditions.
• How to apply your skills and knowledge to the service of others through practical engagement and in contexts.

Course Structure

The Diploma in Theology consists of 8 units (144 points):

• Two (2) units in Field B: Biblical Studies (48 points)
• Two (2) units in Field C: Christian Thought and History (48 points)
• Four (4) units in any Field (96 points)

Most standard units are delivered over one semester (15 weeks), with teaching methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials.

View the Timetable for current units offered.
View all Stirling Units and Fields.
Download the Diploma in Theology Course Planner to map out your studies.

Entry Requirements and Admission

Successful completion of VCE or equivalent. Probationary admission is available to approved persons aged 21 or greater who have not completed Year 12.

Prospective students apply by direct entry to a College of the University. The Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) is not used in selection at the University of Divinity.

It may be possible for students to receive credit into their course for prior post-secondary study in theology or ministry.

International students:
Please read the entry requirements and follow the admission process for international students here.

Have questions about the course or application process?
Call us on (03) 9790 1000
Enquire online here
Apply for admission here

Course Cost

View unit fees and payment options here.
Students who are Australian citizens or holders of a permanent humanitarian visa are eligible for FEE-HELP.

Further Opportunities

Upon successful completion, graduates may proceed to:

• an Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry
• an Advanced Diploma in Philosophy
• the Bachelor of Ministry
• Bachelor of Theology

Accreditation

The Diploma in Theology is accredited by the University of Divinity, which is constituted by the University of Divinity Act 1910 of the Parliament of Victoria. View the Diploma in Theology regulations here.

Critically examine life and faith through the study of scriptures, theological traditions and historical contexts. Taught by world-class theologians, the Bachelor of Theology aims to broaden your self-understanding and facilitate cultural engagement, whilst giving you the opportunity to develop your particular areas of interest in-depth, including mission and ministry, pastoral care, leadership and more. 

What you will learn

• A coherent and critical knowledge of Christian theological traditions and methodologies, with focused knowledge in at least one area.
• Articulate the knowledge they have acquired to generate insights and communicate them through clear reasoned argument.
• How to engage in theological traditions and contemporary culture.
• To have a theologically informed basis for engagement and service.

Course Structure

The Bachelor of Theology consists of 24 units (432 points):

• Four (4) units in Field B: Biblical Studies (72 points)
• Four (4) units in Field C: Systematic Theology (72 points)
• Two (2) units in Field C: Church History (36 points)
• Two (2) units in Field D: Theology: Mission & Ministry (36 points)
• Twelve (12) units in any Field (216 points)

It may be possible for students to undertake study in a ministry setting as part of the course.

Most standard units are delivered over one semester (15 weeks), with teaching methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials.

View the Timetable for current units offered.
View all Stirling Units and Fields
Download the Bachelor of Theology Course Planner to map out your studies.

Entry Requirements and Admission

Successful completion of VCE or equivalent. Probationary admission is available to approved persons aged 21 or greater who have not completed Year 12.

Prospective students apply by direct entry to a College of the University. The Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) is not used in selection at the University of Divinity.

It may be possible for students to receive credit into their course for prior post-secondary study in theology or ministry.

International students:
Please read the entry requirements and follow the admission process for international students here.

Have questions about the course or application process?
Call us on (03) 9790 1000
Enquire online here
Apply for admission here

Course Cost

View unit fees and payment options here.
Students who are Australian citizens or holders of a permanent humanitarian visa are eligible for FEE-HELP.

Further Opportunities

Upon successful completion, graduates may proceed to:

• Graduate Certificate in Theology
• Graduate Diploma in Theology
• Master of Theological Studies
  (This list is not exhaustive)

Credit

A maximum of eight (8) units may be obtained in credit for completed degree level units at other recognised tertiary institutions. Credit is limited to units completed less than 10 years ago.

Please note: Further credit terms and conditions apply.

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the University of Divinity, which is constituted by the University of Divinity Act 1910 of the Parliament of Victoria. View the regulations here.

Develop and deepen your knowledge in theological disciplines such as Biblical studies, Christian thought and history, or practical theology. Critically engage with the material while articulating insights for Christian life and social engagement.

What you will learn

• Knowledge of sources, terms and conceptual frameworks required for theological engagement.
• Research, analysis and communication skills applicable to theological studies.
• Skills of interpretation to texts and traditions with an awareness of context, implications and application to historical and or contemporary issues.
• Theological and hermeneutical skills in clearly articulating insights relevant to life, work and community settings.

Course structure

The Graduate Certificate in Theology consists of 3 units (72 points):

Units must be taken across three Disciplines in at least two Fields.

Most standard units are delivered over one semester (15 weeks), with teaching methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials.

View the Timetable for current units offered.
View all Stirling Units and Fields.
Download the Graduate Certificate in Theology Course Planner to map out your studies.

Entry Requirements and Admission

Successful completion of an undergraduate degree, or an approved equivalent.

International students:
Please read the entry requirements and follow the admission process for international students here.

Have questions about the course or application process?
Call us on (03) 9790 1000
Enquire online here
Apply for admission here

Course Cost

View unit fees and payment options here.
Students who are Australian citizens or holders of a permanent humanitarian visa are eligible for FEE-HELP.

Further Opportunities

Upon successful completion, graduates may proceed to:

• Graduate Diploma in Theology
• Master of Arts (Theology)

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the University of Divinity, which is constituted by the University of Divinity Act 1910 of the Parliament of Victoria. View the regulations here.

Building on the Diploma in Theology, the Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry will deepen your understanding of the key theological disciplines of Biblical Studies and Christian Thought and History and in Ministry.  

What you will learn

• Significant foundational skills for critical study of Christian texts.
• Skills to articulate and reflect upon foundational theological, scriptural knowledge and apply this to ministry practice.
• Strong analytical skills allowing you to analyse and communicate sound theological arguments, especially in relation to ministry tasks or worldview perspectives.
• How to apply skills and knowledge to your own and other contexts and traditions through culturally relevant ministry practices.
• How to apply your skills and knowledge to the service of others through practical engagement and in contexts, such as practical support ministries or cultural and philosophical analysis.

Course structure

The Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry consists of 16 units (288 points):

• 1 unit (18 points) in Field B: Old Testament
• 1 unit (18 points) in Field B: New Testament
• 1 unit (18 points) in Field C: Systematic Theology
• 1 unit (18 points) in Field C: Church History
• 2 units (36 points) in Field B (Biblical Studies) and/or Field C (Christian Thought and History)
• a further 10 units (180 points) from any Field

Most standard units are delivered over one semester (15 weeks), with teaching methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials.

View the Timetable for current units offered.
View all Stirling Units and Fields.
Download the Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry Course Planner to map out your studies.

Entry Requirements and Admission

Successful completion of VCE or equivalent. Probationary admission is available to approved persons aged 21 or greater who have not completed Year 12.

Prospective students apply by direct entry to a College of the University. The Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) is not used in selection at the University of Divinity.

It may be possible for students to receive credit into their course for prior post-secondary study in theology or ministry.

International students:
Please read the entry requirements and follow the admission process for international students here.

Have questions about the course or application process?
Call us on (03) 9790 1000
Enquire online here
Apply for admission here

Course Cost

View unit fees and payment options here.
Students who are Australian citizens or holders of a permanent humanitarian visa are eligible for FEE-HELP.

Further Opportunities

Upon successful completion, graduates may proceed to:

• the Bachelor of Ministry
• the Bachelor of Theology

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the University of Divinity, which is constituted by the University of Divinity Act 1910 of the Parliament of Victoria. View the regulations here.

Develop and deepen your knowledge and skills in your area of theological interest. Substantially expanding on your foundational study, engage in Christian thought and traditions whilst articulating insights for Christian practice and identity.

What you will learn

• Knowledge of sources, terms and concepts required for theological engagement;
• Research, analysis and communication skills applicable to theological studies;
• How to apply skills of interpretation to a range of texts with an awareness of context, implications and application to historical and or contemporary issues;
• How to apply relevant theological and hermeneutical skills in clearly articulating insights into life, work and community.

Course Structure

The Graduate Diploma in Theology consists of 6 units (144 points): 

• 3 units minimum (72 points) in foundational units (Level 8) in three disciplines across two Fields.
• Remaining points (usually 3 units: 72 points) from foundational (Level 8) or elective units (Level 9).

Most standard units are delivered over one semester (15 weeks), with teaching methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials.

View the Timetable for current units offered.
View all Stirling Units and Fields
Download the Graduate Diploma in Theology Course Planner to map out your studies.

Entry Requirements and Admission

Successful completion of an undergraduate degree or a Graduate Certificate in Theology.

International students:
Please read the entry requirements and follow the admission process for international students here.

Have questions about the course or application process?
Call us on (03) 9790 1000
Enquire online here
Apply for admission here

Course Cost

View unit fees and payment options here.
Students who are Australian citizens or holders of a permanent humanitarian visa are eligible for FEE-HELP.

Further Opportunities

Upon successful completion, graduates may proceed to:

• Master of Arts (Theology)
• Master of Theological Coursework
• Master of Divinity

Graduates who have included a Minor Thesis (16000 words) in their course may be eligible to apply for admission to a higher degree by research.

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the University of Divinity, which is constituted by the University of Divinity Act 1910 of the Parliament of Victoria. View the regulations here.

The Doctor of Theology is a higher degree by research in divinity. The purpose of the Doctor of Theology is to qualify individuals who apply a substantial body of knowledge to research, investigate and develop new knowledge, in one or more areas of investigation, scholarship or professional practice.

Candidates present their research in a 100,000 word thesis. Research is self-directed with regular input from the supervisor(s). Candidates are also expected to take an active role in postgraduate seminars.

What you will learn

• A substantial body of knowledge at the frontier of a field of work or learning within divinity, including knowledge that constitutes an original contribution to the field
• Substantial knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to the field of work or learning
• Expert cognitive, technical and creative skills to use intellectual independence to think critically, analyse and evaluate existing knowledge and ideas, undertake systematic investigation, reflect on theory and practice to generate original knowledge within divinity, and demonstrate expert understanding of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on that theory and its application
• How to apply knowledge and skills with intellectual independence, and with responsibility and accountability, to plan and execute an ongoing program of original research, and to understand explicit and implicit ethical considerations to the formulation of a research project
• Skills to present cogently a complex investigation of originality or original research for external examination against international standards, and to communicate research results to peers and the community.

Course Structure

• Submission of an annual report throughout the duration of candidature.
• Satisfactory completion of confirmation of candidature.
• Where relevant, satisfactory completion of requirements of the Human Research Ethics Committee.
•  Attendance and participation in a minimum of 8 hours of research seminars at the University and either a University Research Conference or a research conference approved by the candidate’s College during each year of candidature. Satisfactory completion of these requirements must be certified by the College on the candidate’s annual report.
• Presentation of at least one seminar or conference paper of no less than 20 minutes’ duration prior to submission of the thesis.
• Preparation of a thesis for examination.

DTheol candidates present their research in a thesis of not more 100,000 words which is examined by at least two external examiners.

Entry Requirements and Admission

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must satisfy the Research Committee that they have completed one of the following awards at the University of Divinity, or an equivalent award in divinity at another higher education provider recognised by the Academic Board, to the following standard:

a)   a Masters by research with a 75% average, or where a mark is not available, examiners’ reports which indicate to the satisfaction of the Research Committee that the candidate is adequately prepared for doctoral research; or

b)   a Masters by coursework with a 75% average; or

c)    a Graduate Diploma with a 75% average; or

d)   a four year undergraduate degree with Honours with a 75% average.

An applicant must also satisfy the Research Committee that they have completed a research essay or thesis of at least 12,000 words graded at or above 75%. The research essay or thesis may have been completed either within one of the awards listed above or as part of another program of study.

Upon admission, the applicant becomes a member of the School of Graduate Research.

International students:
Please read the entry requirements and follow the admission process for international students here.

Have questions about the course or application process?
Call us on (03) 9790 1000
Enquire online here
Apply for admission here

Course Cost

View unit fees and payment options here.
Students who are Australian citizens or holders of a permanent humanitarian visa are eligible for FEE-HELP.

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the University of Divinity, which is constituted by the University of Divinity Act 1910 of the Parliament of Victoria. View the regulations here.

The Master of Theological Studies enables students to apply an advanced body of knowledge in theology and its associated disciplines. Broaden your knowledge and skills whilst deepening your engagement with specific areas to prepare you for professional practice and further learning.

What you will learn

• Advanced knowledge of sources, terms and concepts required in theology and its related disciplines
• Mastery of research principles and methods, including analytical and communication skills applicable to theology and its related disciplines
• Advanced skills of interpretation and critical reflection on a range of theological and related disciplines, with an awareness of implications and applications to historical and contemporary issues and contexts, in order to generate and evaluate ideas for professional practise and further learning
• How to articulate and communicate knowledge and insights in theology and its related disciplines to specialist and non-specialist audiences
• How to apply relevant theological and hermeneutical skills through the execution of a substantial research-based project, capstone experience, or piece of scholarship.

Course Structure

The Master of Theological Studies consists of 12 units (288 points):

• 3 units (72 points) of Foundational units (Level 8) in three disciplines from at least two fields
• 5 units (120 points) of Elective units (Level 9)
• 3 units (71 points) in any level or field
• 1 (Level 9) Capstone or Research Essay unit

Most standard units are delivered over one semester (15 weeks), with teaching methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials.

View the Timetable for current units offered.
View all Stirling Units and Fields
Download the Master of Theological Studies Course Planner to map out your studies.

Entry Requirements and Admission

Successful completion of an undergraduate degree.

International students:
Please read the entry requirements and follow the admission process for international students here.

Have questions about the course or application process?
Call us on (03) 9790 1000
Enquire online here
Apply for admission here

Course Cost

View unit fees and payment options here.
Students who are Australian citizens or holders of a permanent humanitarian visa are eligible for FEE-HELP.

Further Opportunities

Graduates who have completed a Minor Thesis to a specified standard may be eligible for admission to higher degrees by research.

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the University of Divinity. View the regulations here.

Explore an extensive body of knowledge in theology (and its associated disciplines) with a Master of Theology (Coursework). Deepen your engagement with specific areas as you prepare for professional practice and further learning.

What you will learn

• Advanced knowledge of sources, terms and concepts required in theology and its related disciplines
• have mastery of research principles and methods, including analytical and communication skills applicable to theology and its related disciplines
• Advanced skills of interpretation and critical reflection on a range of theological and related disciplines, with awareness of implications and applications to historical and contemporary issues and contexts, in order to generate and evaluate ideas for professional practise and further learning
• How to articulate and communicate knowledge and insights in theology and its related disciplines to specialist and non-specialist audiences
• How to apply relevant theological and hermeneutical skills through the execution of a substantial research-based project, capstone experience, theological synthesis or supervised ministry project.

Course Structure

The Master of Theology (Coursework) consists of 10 units (240 points):

• 2 units (48 points) minimum of Foundational units (Level 8) in any discipline
• 1 Capstone unit (24 points) or the unit RQ9748M Minor Thesis
• 7 units (Level 9) in any discipline (e.g. Elective, Praxis or Capstone units)

Most standard units are delivered over one semester (15 weeks), with teaching methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials.

View the Timetable for current units offered.
View all Stirling Units and Fields
Download the Master of Theology (Coursework) Course Planner to map out your studies.

Entry Requirements and Admission

Successful completion of the Bachelor of Theology or the Bachelor of Ministry or the Master of Divinity, or an equivalent theological qualification (a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma does not satisfy the admission requirements for this award).

International students:
Please read the entry requirements and follow the admission process for international students here.

Have questions about the course or application process?
Call us on (03) 9790 1000
Enquire online here
Apply for admission here

Course Cost

View unit fees and payment options here.
Students who are Australian citizens or holders of a permanent humanitarian visa are eligible for FEE-HELP.

Further Opportunities

Graduates who have completed a Minor Thesis to a specified standard may be eligible for admission to higher degrees by research.

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the University of Divinity. View the regulations here.

CRICOS Code 011486D

 The degree of Master of Theology (MTheol) is a higher degree by research which aims to equip students with advanced research skills, and enable them to pursue focused study through research.  Candidates enrolled in the MTheol by major thesis will write a 40,000 word thesis. Those enrolled in the MTheol by minor thesis will complete two subjects of postgraduate coursework, and a minor thesis of 25,000 words. Every candidate must, in addition, successfully complete an approved subject in Research Methodologies.

Successful completion of the MTheol provides a pathway to doctoral studies at the University of Divinity. A student may also apply for their candidature to be upgraded to a doctoral candidature after 12 months of satisfactory masters candidature.

Entry Requirements

The MTheol is open to candidates who have completed a four-year Bachelor with Honours degree in an appropriate discipline, or the equivalent, with at least Distinction level Honours. Another entry path is open to those who have completed a graduate diploma in an appropriate discipline, including a 12,000 word research essay graded to at least 75%.

Duration

The minimum length of candidature is 12 months full-time, and the maximum length of candidature is 18 months full-time or three years part-time. One extension of six months may be granted to full-time candidates, and one extension of 12 months may be granted to part-time candidates.

Click here for regulations.