Master of Theological Studies

The Master of Theological Studies at the University of Divinity is a two-year coursework degree for people who want to study theology seriously, whether or not they have a background in it. You'll take units across biblical studies, church history, systematic theology, ethics and practical theology, and build up credit points as you go. The University of Divinity is a specialist Australian university owned by a group of churches, so teaching is grounded in the Christian tradition but open to students of any faith or none.

How the degree is structured

Australian master's degrees usually run one to two years full time, and this one sits at the two-year end. Study is organised into semesters, and you enrol in units of study, each worth a set number of credit points. A full-time load is typically four units a semester, though many students study part time. You'll choose from a broad list of units, with room to specialise in an area that interests you. Most students finish with a capstone project or a minor thesis, where you research a question in depth with supervision from an academic in the field. Some students take the research pathway instead, which can lead into a doctorate.

Assessment is mostly essays, seminar papers and exams, with some units using reflective journals or class presentations. If your work or ministry involves supervised practice, there are units that include placement or field education, where you spend time in a parish, school, hospital or community organisation and write up what you learn. Not every pathway includes placement, so check the handbook for the units you're considering.

What you'll actually learn

You'll learn to read biblical texts in their historical and literary context, trace how Christian thought developed, and weigh up ethical arguments with care. You'll write a lot, and your writing will get sharper. You'll also learn to handle primary sources, use theological libraries and databases, and present an argument that stands up to scrutiny. Class sizes are small, so you'll be discussing ideas with people who work in ministry, teaching, healthcare, law and community organisations, as well as students straight out of an undergraduate degree.

Who it suits

This degree suits three groups. First, people who want to teach religious education or work in a faith-based school and need theological depth. Second, people in ministry or church leadership who want formal study. Third, anyone with a genuine intellectual interest in religion who wants to study it at a postgraduate level, including career changers and retirees. You don't need a theology degree to get in, though you will need a bachelor's degree or equivalent. If you're an international student, you'll need to meet the University of Divinity's English requirements, and you should confirm the current IELTS or TOEFL scores on the official page. On a Student visa you can work up to 48 hours a fortnight while your course is in session, and after you graduate you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Tuition is listed on the CRICOS register under course code 096386E, and you should check the official page for current fees, intake dates and unit offerings.

Graduates work across Australia in roles where religious literacy and clear thinking matter. Typical destinations include:

• Religious education teacher or coordinator in Catholic and independent schools (further study or a teaching qualification may be required for registration)
• Ministry or pastoral roles in churches, hospitals, aged care and defence chaplaincy
• Policy, ethics and mission roles in religious charities and not-for-profit organisations
• Community services and welfare work with faith-based agencies
• Writing, editing and communications for religious publishers, media and diocesan offices
• Further research at master's or doctoral level, leading to academic and teaching careers
• Roles in museums, archives and heritage organisations with religious collections