Graduate Diploma in Theology

This information is currently being updated. For current unit codes and names, click here to access the Postgraduate Handbook.

Course code 4885

Course Coordinator: Dr Ray CW Roenfeldt

Avondale offers two Graduate Diplomas (in Theology and Ministry), giving postgraduate students the opportunity to explore and focus on Biblical studies and languages, church history, theology and ministry in great depth. The two separate courses alone do not provide the basis to become a Seventh-day Adventist pastor. However, when both are completed they provide preparation for ministry in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The two Diplomas can be studied separately or concurrently.

Duration


One year full-time or equivalent part-time.

Credit Points


48 credit points (8x6-credit point subjects)

Mode of delivery


On Campus (Lake Macquarie)

Abbreviation of course title


GradDipTheol

Accreditation


The program is accredited by the NSW Department of Education and Training.

Entry requirements


Bachelors degree or equivalent and demonstrated proficiency in the English language (eg IELTS 6.5) for students whose first language is not english

Prerequisites


At least four theology, religion or ministry subjects at undergraduate or postgraduate level. Avondale college offers subjects in the distance mode for students unable to fulfil this prerequisiste. Contact the course coordinattor for more information.

Word processing prerequisite


All applicants are required to have word processing skills.

Preliminary semester of study


Distance Education On-campus alternative
CR160 SDA History and Heritage - DE CY165 SDA History and Ministry of Ellen White
CR163 Christian Faith from an Adventist Perpective-DE TH161 Introduction to Theology
PS165 General Psychology (on-campus at Avondale or equivalent from another institution) PS160 Developmental and Pastoral Psychology



Employment Opportunities


Candidates wishing to work as clergy within the Seventh Day Adventist church upon completion of these studies are advised to inform themselves of their employment possibilties within the church before they commence this course. They are also advised to become aware of the nature of superannuation for church clergy for those entering such employment at their age.


Credit transfer and Advanced standing


Credit transfer is available for equivalent tertiary level subjects completed elsewhere (see the Avondale College website for more information). However, credit transfer may require the substitution of subjects but not necessarily the overall duration of the course.


Summary of minimum requirements in the Graduate Diploma in Theology


Component of course Subjects Credit points
Theological-historical formation
Theology 2 12
History/Church history 1 16
Biblical formation
Biblical Studies 2 12
Biblical Languages 2 12
Electives
selected from codes NT, OT, HI, CM, BL or TH 1 6
TOTAL 8 48



Required subjects


Theological-historical formation




Biblical formation





Elective


Selected from codes NT, OT, HI, CM, BL or TH at 300-level

Course assurance


The "Second Providers" for the Graduate Diploma in Theology are:

  • Sydney College of Divinity

  • Tabor College

  • Australian College of Theology