Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies
Course information for - 2025 entry
Domestic
- Domestic
- Domestic
Offered at 1 locations
- Online MT
- Online MT
- Duration
- 1 year full-time or equivalent part-time
- Fees (first year)*
- Start dates
-
Semester 1 intake: Beginning February 2025Applications open August 2024Midyear (Semester 2) intake: Beginning July 2025Applications open April 2025
Overview
The Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies provides a deeper engagement with theology beyond the foundational level, and through the lens of the Catholic intellectual tradition. It is suitable for you if have an undergraduate or graduate certificate-level qualification in theology and are seeking professional development for a career in a Catholic or other Church or faith-based organisation. This program is also suitable for you if you wish to pursue an interest or are preparing for masters-level coursework in the field.
Available specialisations include:
- Ancient languages
- Biblical world
- Christian thought and tradition
- Liturgical studies
- Mission and ministry
- Philosophy
- Spirituality
Successful completion of the Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies qualifies you for admission and advanced standing into the Master of Theological Studies and Master of Professional Studies in Theology.
Professional recognition
Professional recognition may differ between dioceses. Teacher applicants are advised to contact the Catholic or State Education Office in the area in which they teach to ascertain the status of the course.
Students who wish to proceed to further study upon completion of the graduate certificate are eligible to enter the Master of Theological Studies course. Teacher graduates of these two awards may be able to seek four-year trained teacher status with an employer. Applicants are advised to discuss these possibilities with their local Catholic or State Education Office.
Careers
Graduates of postgraduate study in Theology typically include people in ordained and lay ministry, chaplaincy, education and health care.
Course details
Course structure
To complete the Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies, a student must complete 80 credit points (cp).
Available Specialisation(s)
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Ancient Languages
Explore the linguistic phenomena of our ancient past and apply this wisdom to contemporary contexts. Study this ancient languages specialisation as part of your theology degree and you’ll learn more than how to decipher and apply writings from antiquity. You'll get up close with ancient religious texts, and develop tools to decipher their many meanings. These tools can then be adapted to a wide range of vocations and careers long after you graduate.
The Biblical World
This specialisation suits students who wish to work in the fields of religious education, catechetics, ordained or lay ministry, Christian youth work and chaplaincy. Units offered in this stream provide students the opportunity to develop critical skills and knowledge in reading and interpreting the bible in its original historical contexts and applying that expertise to their professional practice in Catholic and Christian organisations.
Christian Thought and Tradition
Spirituality
Liturgy
In the celebration of sacramental rituals and liturgy, the faith of the Church is expressed, nourished and strengthened. The liturgy specialisation explores how Catholic faith is enacted in our rites and sacraments, and you will learn how faith life is expressed and nourished through liturgy and prayer.
Mission and Ministry
Philosophy
This philosophy specialisation provides you with the opportunity to explore some of the fundamental philosophical theories and topics that have influenced the discipline and society more broadly. Engage deeply with significant ethical theories, develop an understanding of the structure of knowledge, and explore the nature of mind and world. This specialisation will provide you with important analytical skills that can be used in a range of professional and educational roles.
Course map
Graduate statement
AQF framework
Graduate Diploma - AQF Level 8Exit Points
A student who has completed the requirements for the Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies (40 cp) may exit with that award.
Entry requirements
An applicant must also comply with the Admission to Coursework Programs Policy.
To be eligible for admission to the course, an applicant must have completed an undergraduate degree in any discipline.
A student who has completed the Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies will be granted advanced standing.
Disclaimer: The course entry requirements above are for 2025 Admission.
Applicants with higher education study
You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen course.
If you have completed at least two units of AQF-recognised study at bachelor level or above, we’ll assign you with a new selection rank that reflects your study level, duration, and grade point average.
If your prior study or relevant work experience has provided you with knowledge, skills or experience aligned with the learning outcomes of units in your new course, you may be eligible to gain credit for study or have your prior learning recognised. This means you may be able to complete your ACU course in a shorter timeframe.
You can use our credit search tool to see what you might be eligible for. For more information about credit and recognition of prior learning at ACU, follow the link below.
Inherent requirement
There are essential components of a course or unit that demonstrate the capabilities, knowledge and skills to achieve the core learning outcomes of that course or unit. You will need to be able to meet these inherent requirements to complete your course.
Learn more about inherent requirements for your course and how they affect you
Pathways
Further study
Successful completion of the Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies provides entry into the Master of Theological Studies.
Fees
Course costs
*This is an indicative first-year fee based on the tuition fee rates for a full-time student, using unit enrolment data from domestic students who studied the course in the previous year.
A student’s annual fee will vary depending on factors including:
- Number of units studied per year
- Choice of major or specialisation
- Elective units
The University reviews fees annually.
You can view current course costs and domestic tuition fee rates by unit.
Payment options
You should be able to concentrate on getting good marks instead of worrying about how you’ll pay your fees. We have a number of options that can help you ease the financial burden, including government assistance, scholarships and income support.
Scholarships
You could be eligible for one of the hundreds of scholarships we award each year to help students from across the university with the cost of studying, accommodation or overseas study opportunities. Some of our scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit, but these aren’t just for the academically gifted; ACU also recognises excellence in community engagement and leadership. We also offer a range of scholarships for those who may be struggling financially or who have faced other barriers to accessing education.
How to apply
Domestic applicants
Deferment
Deferment is available for one year. Find out more about deferment.
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