Graduate Diploma of Divinity (Religious Studies)

The Graduate Diploma of Divinity is a one-year course for people who want to study theology and ministry at postgraduate level without committing to a full master's degree. It suits students who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field, as well as those who have worked in a church or community setting and now want formal theological training. If you have already completed some theological study, you may be able to use it as credit towards the diploma, which is arranged through units of study and credit points in the usual Australian way.

What you study

The course covers the core areas of Christian theology: biblical studies in both Old and New Testaments, church history, systematic and contemporary theology, ethics, and practical ministry subjects such as pastoral care, preaching and worship. You will learn to read biblical texts in their historical and literary context, weigh different theological positions, and write clearly about complex ideas. Assessment is mostly through essays, exegetical papers, seminar presentations and exams, with some units including a supervised ministry placement or field education component where you work in a congregation, chaplaincy or community setting under a supervisor. Some students choose a research project or extended essay instead of one or two coursework units, which can be a pathway into further postgraduate study.

How it fits together

The diploma is normally one year of full-time study, or part-time over a longer period, and is usually made up of eight units of study (or the equivalent in credit points). Teaching is delivered through semesters or trimesters, depending on the provider's calendar, and many theological colleges offer a mix of on-campus, intensive and online modes so you can study around work or ministry commitments. The Graduate Diploma sits at AQF level 8, between a bachelor's degree and a master's degree, and can often be credited towards a Master of Divinity or Master of Theology if you decide to continue.

Who it suits

This course is for people preparing for ordained ministry, lay leadership, chaplaincy, or simply wanting a serious grounding in theology for personal and professional reasons. It also works well for teachers in faith-based schools, hospital and aged-care chaplains, and others whose work touches on religion and ethics. If you are an international student, you will need to meet the university's English requirements (IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common coursework-postgraduate standard) and the separate English threshold set by the Department of Home Affairs for the Student visa. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, depending on your circumstances. Check the official CRICOS listing and the university's handbook for the current unit structure, entry requirements and tuition.

• Ordained minister or pastor in churches and faith communities across Australia.
• Chaplain in hospitals, aged care, prisons, defence, universities and schools.
• Lay ministry leader or pastoral worker in congregations and community organisations.
• Religious education teacher in faith-based schools, subject to state teacher registration requirements.
• Community services and welfare worker in church-affiliated and non-profit agencies.
• Further study towards a Master of Divinity, Master of Theology or research degree.