Course Overview

About This Course

When you work in a faith-based institution, and in particular in a faith-based healthcare provider, learning how to offer pastoral care can be essential training. These programs offer the opportunity to understand the theological foundations of pastoral care. At the same time, they offer training. These programs can be scaled according to need, and in conversation with employers. They will be of particular interest to those who want to develop their knowledge and skills in this important area of study and practice. These programs are designed to meet your needs as a busy professional seeking to deepen understanding and gain further training. All students study the foundations of Pastoral Theology, as well as Bioethics within the Catholic Tradition. This gives a depth of appreciation about why and how healthcare is a response to the dignity of all persons, and the precious nature of human life. Those in the Graduate Diploma have four more electives available (6 in all) from the same areas, with the option to take Business courses that take them into the psychology of work and/or the ways that organisations are best structured by excellent leaders.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

To be eligible for admission to The University of Notre Dame Australia, all applicants must meet the University's minimum requirements for admission.
The requirements for admission are detailed in the University's Policy: Admission and Credit.
To be eligible for admission to the Graduate Diploma of Applied Pastoral Theology applicants must also be currently employed or have past experience in a field of pastoral practice.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

This program is suited to those who want to deepen their understanding and strengthen their skills in pastoral care, particularly within faith-based healthcare organisations.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Australian College of Theology (ACT) / relevant denominational body

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

VETASSESS

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units2 units

Foundations of Pastoral Theology

Core unit studying the foundations of Pastoral Theology.

Bioethics: A Catholic Theological Analysis

Core unit covering bioethical issues within the Catholic Tradition, exploring why and how healthcare is a response to the dignity of all persons and the precious nature of human life.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I study the Graduate Diploma of Applied Pastoral Theology full-time?

No, the Graduate Diploma of Applied Pastoral Theology is only available part-time, with a duration of 1 year of equivalent full-time study. Most students will take this course part-time so that they can work at the same time.

What electives are available in the Graduate Diploma?

Students in the Graduate Diploma have six elective courses available, drawn from options in Counselling, Philosophy, and Theology, with the option to also take Business courses that explore the psychology of work and/or the ways that organisations are best structured by excellent leaders.

Do I need work experience to be admitted to this program?

Yes, to be eligible for admission to the Graduate Diploma of Applied Pastoral Theology, applicants must be currently employed or have past experience in a field of pastoral practice.

What campuses offer the Graduate Diploma of Applied Pastoral Theology?

The program is available at the Fremantle campus (23 High St, Fremantle, WA 6160) and the Sydney campus (128-140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008), with commencement available in both Semester 1 and Semester 2.

What are the learning outcomes of this program?

Upon successful completion, graduates will be able to: communicate advanced knowledge of the theoretical dimensions of Pastoral Theology; apply knowledge of bioethical issues, pastoral theology, and counselling to establish therapeutic pastoral relationships in practice; analyze critically and evaluate complex theological concepts and ethical frameworks to apply to pastoral encounters; and reflect on leadership in ministry by drawing on theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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