Advanced Diploma of Theological Studies

Moore College's Advanced Diploma of Theological Studies is a one-year course for people who want to study theology seriously without committing to a full degree. You will work through the same core ground as the college's degree students: biblical languages, Old and New Testament, church history, Christian doctrine and practical ministry. The difference is the length and the depth. One year, full-time, and you finish with an advanced diploma rather than a bachelor degree.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas and advanced diplomas sit below the bachelor degree on the Australian Qualifications Framework and are normally delivered as full-time study over one to two years. At Moore College the advanced diploma runs for one year full-time, or part-time if you need to fit study around work or ministry. You enrol in units of study, each carrying credit points, and you need to pass the required number of credit points to graduate. Assessment is typically a mix of essays, exams and written reflections. Ask the college whether a capstone unit or research project is part of the advanced diploma, and how many credit points it carries.

What you actually study

Expect to read the Bible in its original languages, or at least begin to. Greek and Hebrew units are a standard part of theological study at this level. You will write exegetical essays on set passages, trace how Christian doctrine developed across the centuries, and look at how churches and Christian organisations actually operate. Moore College is an Anglican college in Sydney, and its teaching is shaped by that tradition. The college also runs a well-known ministry training programme, so practical ministry units are likely to be available. Confirm the exact unit list on the official course page before you apply.

Who it suits

This course suits three groups of people. First, someone already involved in church ministry who wants proper theological training but cannot step away for three or four years. Second, a student who wants to test whether theology is for them before enrolling in a degree. Third, someone preparing for a role in a Christian school, a parish, a mission organisation or a faith-based charity where theological knowledge is expected. If you are an international student, you will need to meet the college's English requirement. The published standard for courses at this level is IELTS Academic 6.0 to 6.5 overall, with TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the college's own English programmes accepted as equivalents. The Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa, so check both. While you study, a Student visa generally allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, depending on your circumstances. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register under course code 111612D. Check the official page for current fees, intake dates and unit details.

Graduates of the Advanced Diploma of Theological Studies typically move into roles where theological knowledge and biblical literacy matter. Common paths include:

• Pastoral or ministry assistant in a local church
• Chaplaincy support in schools, hospitals or aged care
• Religious education teacher or assistant in a faith-based school
• Mission or outreach worker with a church or Christian organisation
• Administration or programme coordination in a faith-based charity
• Further study towards a bachelor degree in theology or ministry

The main employers are churches, Christian schools, mission agencies, faith-based not-for-profits and aged care providers. Some graduates use the qualification as a stepping stone into a degree, while others go straight into paid or volunteer ministry roles. If you are an international student, the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream may allow you to stay and work in Australia after you finish, provided you meet the requirements.