Theology

Complete a Diploma in Theology with knowledge in key theological disciplines. Taught by world-class theologians, dive into foundational 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

Graduates will:

• have sound foundational skills for critical study of Christian texts.
• have skills to articulate foundational theological and scriptural knowledge and reflection.
• have developed clear analytical skills allowing them to analyse and communicate sound theological arguments.
• apply their skills and knowledge to their own and other contexts and traditions.
• apply their skills and knowledge to the service of others through practical engagement and in contexts such as conversation.

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)

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.

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

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.

Local students:

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

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.

CRICOS: 060935M

CRICOS code 011489A

The Bachelor of Theology critically examines life and faith through the study of the Bible, theological traditions and historical contexts. The Bachelor of Theology assists students to develop knowledge across broad areas of theology, as well as depth in areas of interest. It develops research and communication skills, and prepares graduates for further theological study.

Course learning outcomes

Graduates of the Bachelor of Theology:

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

Course structure

This degree can be completed in not less than three years and not more than nine years.

The Bachelor of Theology consists of 360 points comprised of:

1. 60 points in disciplines in Biblical Studies, which must include at least 15 points in both the Old and New Testaments;
2. 30 points in Church History;
3. 60 points in Systematic Theology;
4. 30 points in a discipline or disciplines in Theology: Mission and Ministry; and
5. A further 180 points.

Each course of study for the Bachelor of Theology:

• Must not include more than 180 points at level 1; and
• Must include at least 90 points at level 3, including 30 points at level 3 in either Biblical Studies or in Systematic Theology.

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Follow on study

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

Credit

A maximum of eight units may be obtained in credit for completed degree level work done at other recognised tertiary institutions. A completed degree automatically carries four units of general credit, and another two units credit may be obtained in Field A, depending on the major taken for the degree. For credit to be obtained in the other three fields of study, the units concerned must closely parallel the content of the subject areas within those fields. Transfer credits are also possible. The total number of credits and transfer credits cannot exceed 240 points. Credits a re normally limited to courses completed not more than 10 years ago.

Students who began their degree under a previous regulation will be encouraged to complete the requirements of the new regulation (but this is not compulsary).

The regulation prior to 1 January 2009 can be viewed here. The regulation in force between January 2009 and December 2015 can be viewed here.

The Graduate Certificate in Theology qualifies students in theological study by developing or deepening their knowledge and skills in theological disciplines. It serves as a foundation for further study and a means of critically engaging Christian thought and traditions. Graduates are able to articulate insights for Christian life and social engagement.

Course learning outcomes

Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Theology:

1. have knowledge of sources, terms and conceptual frameworks required for theological engagement;
2. have research, analysis and communication skills applicable to theological studies;
3. apply skills of interpretation to texts and traditions with awareness of context, implications and application to historical and or contemporary issues;
4. apply theological and hermeneutical skills in clearly articulating insights relevant to life, work and community settings.

Course structure

Every course of study for the Graduate Certificate in Theology consists of 45 points of Foundational units taken across three disciplines in at least two fields. View units here.

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Follow on study

Graduates may proceed to the Graduate Diploma in Theology or Master of Arts (Theology).

Click here to see the course regulations.

CRICOS code 047446D

The Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry is a fully accredited award of the University of Divinity. The Advanced Diploma consists of 16 semester units and can be completed in no less than two years, and no more than six years. The Advanced Diploma includes four foundational units in the following disciplines: Old Testament, New Testament, Church History and Systematic Theology, and two further units in either Biblical Studies and/or Christian Thought and History. Apart from these basic compulsory units, students are free to select the remaining 10 units from the wide variety of units on offer.

At Stirling, all units have been approved for the University of Divinity’s Bachelor of Theology degree. Diploma students wishing to transfer to the degree program will receive full credit for all work successfully completed in these units. Candidates for the Diploma in Theology and the Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry may also apply for credit for work completed at another approved tertiary institution.

What is this course about?

 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 occurs through further study in those disciplines, and in the area of practical ministry studies.

Course learning outcomes

 Graduates of the Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry will:

• Have significant foundational skills for critical study of Christian texts.
• Have skills to articulate and reflect upon foundational theological, scriptural knowledge and apply this to ministry practice.
• Have strong analytical skills allowing them to analyse and communicate sound theological arguments, especially in relation to ministry tasks or worldview perspectives.
• Apply their skills and knowledge to their own and other contexts and traditions through culturally relevant ministry practices.
• 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.

Course structure

The Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry consists of 240 points (16 standard units) of study:

• 15 points of Old Testament
• 15 points of New Testament
• 15 points of Church History
• 15 points of Systematic Theology
• 30 additional points from Field B (Biblical Studies) and / or Field C (Christian Thought and History
• a further 150 points of study.

Each standard Diploma unit (15 credit points) runs for one semester of 15 weeks, including three weeks for reading and examination, and normally has three class hours in each teaching week, including tutorials.

Units focused on ministry practice will involve supervised field placements, in which preparation, participation and evaluation of practical work play a key part.

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Follow on study

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

Entry Requirement

The Diplomas are open to people who have completed Year 12, International Baccalaureate or overseas equivalent.  Probationary entry is available to mature-age (21 years or over) students without a Year 12 qualification.

Assessment Methods

Assessment methods in this course range from academic essays, assignments and examination, to journaling, group projects or competency assessment. The MCD University of Divinity Coursework Studies Committee approves all methods to ensure equity in standards.

Duration

The Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry can be completed in no less than two years, and no more than six years.

Study Modes

Candidates may attend classes on-campus or study units online, or a mix of both.

Regulations

Click here to see the regulations.

The Graduate Diploma in Theology allows students to explore areas of interest in theology. It provides a foundation for further study and engages with Christian thought and traditions. Graduates are able to articulate insights for Christian practice and identity.

Course learning outcomes

Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Theology:

• Have knowledge of sources, terms and concepts required for theological engagement.
• Have research, analysis and communication skills applicable to theological studies.
• Will interpret a range of texts with awareness of context, implications and application to historical and or contemporary issues.
• Apply relevant theological and hermeneutical skills in articulating insights into life, work and community.

Structure

The Graduate Diploma in Theology requires the completion of six units:

• At least 45 points (three standard units) must be in Foundational studies, introducing candidates to three theological disciplines across two fields (typically Old Testament, New Testament, Systematic Theology, Church History, Pastoral Care, Mission or Spirituality).
• The requirement for foundational units will be waived if evidence of previous equivalent study is provided.
• Further points (usually 45 points or three standard units) from Foundational or Elective units (presuming that appropriate pre-requisites have been met).

A 12,000-word research essay can replace two of these units.

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Follow on study

Graduates may proceed to a Master of Arts (Theology) or a Master of Divinity. Graduates who have included a 12,000 word Research Essay in their course may be eligible to apply for admission to a higher degree by research.

Click here to see the course regulations.

CRICOS Code 011485E

 Doctor of Theology candidates present their research in a 100,000 word thesis. Each candidate is first admitted to probationary candidature, and has their project assessed by a Confirmation Panel no later than 12 months into their candidature. Each candidate must also enrol in an approved subject in Research Methodologies. The DTheol is a research-only program. Study is self-directed, but with regular input from the supervisor(s). Candidates are also expected to take an active role in postgraduate seminars.

Entry Requirements

The DTheol is open to candidates who have completed a four-year Bachelor with Honours degree in an appropriate discipline as determined by the Academic Board, , with at least Distinction level Honours.

Assessment Methods

Two examiners, external to the institution, examine the thesis. At least one of these examiners will be based overseas.

Duration

The length of candidature for the DTheol is three years of full-time study, or the part-time equivalent. One extension of up to 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.

Students can enrol into the Master of Theological Studies if they hold an undergraduate degree in any field from a recognised tertiary institution.

Course learning outcomes

Graduates of the Masters of Theological Studies:

• have 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
• have 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 practice and further learning
• articulate and communicate knowledge and insights in theology and its related disciplines to specialist and non-specialist audiences
• 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

1. At least three Foundational units from three disciplines in at least two Fields must be included. Students may include up to six Foundational units (each unit = 15 points).
2. 180 points of Elective units, which must include either a 6000 word Capstone unit (15 points) or a 12,000 word research essay (30 points).
3. Twelve units in total (180 points).
4. Students have the option of exiting with a Graduate Diploma in Theology after successfully completing six units.

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Click here to see the regulations

The Master of Theology (Coursework) enables students with an undergraduate degree in theology or ministry to apply an advanced body of knowledge in theology and its associated disciplines. Students deepen their engagement with select areas of study to prepare them for professional practice and further learning. The completion of the Bachelor of Theology or the Bachelor of Ministry (or equivalent) with at least a credit average, is a pre-requisite to do the Master of Theology.

Course learning outcomes

Graduates of the Master of Theology (Coursework):

1. have advanced knowledge of sources, terms and concepts required in theology and its related disciplines
2. have mastery of research principles and methods, including analytical and communication skills applicable to theology and its related disciplines
3. have 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 practice and further learning
4. articulate and communicate knowledge and insights in theology and its related disciplines to specialist and non-specialist audiences
5. apply relevant theological and hermeneutical skills through the execution of a substantial research-based project, capstone experience, theological synthesis or supervised ministry project.

Structure

This degree requires the completion of ten semester units (or 150 points). Candidates may study full-time or part-time, for between three and ten semesters.

1. Up to 2 Foundational units (may be zero).
2. Elective units to make up 150 points which must include either one 6000 word Capstone unit worth at least 15 points (one unit), or a 16,000 Minor thesis worth at least 30 points (two units).

The Master of Theology (Coursework) structure allows students to include two Foundational units (30 points). This provides for students who missed study at undergraduate level to gain it in their postgraduate degree, such as in Biblical Languages, or in a specific discipline in Field D (such as Moral Theology). Students may take up to nine Elective units in the MTh, providing maximum flexibility for theological graduates to undertake continuing education, or to complete ministerial requirements. Students will be required to complete a Capstone unit worth at least 15 points.

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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.