Diploma of Theology

The Diploma of Theology is an undergraduate award in theology at Level 5 of the Australian Qualifications Framework. It consists of 96 credit points, which normally takes one year of full-time study or the part-time equivalent, with up to eight years allowed to complete the course part-time.

The course introduces students to the sources and content of the Christian story and message, and provides training which emphasises the application and articulation of that story and message in the contemporary world. It concentrates on the disciplines by which knowledge of God is developed and articulated — Bible & Languages (LA, OT, NT, BB) and Christian Thought & History (TH, CH, PE) — and provides a grounding for ministry by establishing a foundation in theological knowledge and reflection.

The 96 credit points are made up of a common core of 24cps of Biblical Introduction and at least 8cps in TH/CH/PE, 24cps in the primary course discipline drawn from LA/BB/NT/OT/CH/TH/PE, and at least 36cps of elective units from any unit field. Through those electives students can follow study tracks in Bible & Languages and in Christian Thought & History, or develop practical ministry skills. All units in the course are completed at Level 5 or above.

The Diploma articulates to the Advanced Diploma of Theology, the Associate Degree of Theology and the Bachelor of Theology, as well as to bachelor degrees at other education providers, and carries an exit point to the Undergraduate Certificate of Theology. It is taught through the University’s affiliated theological colleges around Australia and is also offered as an online course.