Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies

Course information for - 2025 entry

Offered at 7 locations

Duration
1 year full-time or equivalent part-time
Fees (first year)*

$17808 Fee-paying

Start dates
Semester 1 intake: Beginning February 2025
Applications open August 2024
Midyear (Semester 2) intake: Beginning July 2025
Applications 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

Course map

Open all

Please note: Course maps are subject to change.

With Named Specialisation - Commencing Semester 1 - Full time

  • Specified UnitsTHBS501Biblical Studies10 cp
  • Specified UnitsPHIL626Philosophical Contexts for Theology10 cp
  • SpecialisationsNamed Specialisation unit 110 cp
  • SpecialisationsNamed Specialisation unit 210 cp
  • Specified UnitsTHCT500Foundations of Christian Faith10 cp
  • SpecialisationsNamed Specialisation unit 310 cp
  • SpecialisationsNamed Specialisation unit 410 cp
  • ElectivesElective10 cp

Students considering undertaking a named specialisation should contact the Course Coordinator.

Without Specialisation - Commencing Semester 1 - Full time

Incompatibles (Inc:) are units similar to this unit. If you have previously passed an Incompatible unit, you are not able to enrol in this unit.

With Named Specialisation - Commencing Semester 1 - Part time

Students considering undertaking a named specialisation should contact the Course Coordinator.

Without Specialisation - Commencing Semester 1 - Part time

With Named Specialisaton - Commencing Semester 2 - Full time

Students considering undertaking a named specialisation should contact the Course Coordinator.

Without Specialisation - Commencing Semester 2 - Full time

With Named Specialisaton - Commencing Semester 2 - Part time

Students considering undertaking a named specialisation should contact the Course Coordinator.

Without Specialisation - Commencing Semester 2 - Part time

Graduate statement

Insight

As an ACU graduate you have personal insight founded on an understanding of who you are as a professional, a citizen and a scholar. You embrace change and growth through critical self-awareness and learning autonomy. You are empowered to seek truth and meaning, drawing on the principles of justice, equity, and the dignity of all human beings.

Empathy

As an ACU graduate you value human dignity and diversity. This appreciation is founded on deep reflection, and empathy. You have experience of Indigenous Knowings and perspectives and can engage respectfully when working alongside Australia's First Peoples. You can connect with people and cultures and work with community in ways that recognise the dignity of the human person and all cultures

Imagination

As an ACU graduate you utilise imagination and innovation to solve problems. You critically analyse information from a range of sources to creatively solve practical problems and use critical thinking to make decisions and advance the common good. You appreciate the role of innovation and creative thinking in developing a better future for each person and community.

Impact

As an ACU graduate you recognise your responsibility to work for social justice and a sustainable world founded on a commitment to human dignity and the common good. You lead change through respectful collaboration and effective communication of ideas to diverse peoples, groups and communities in local and global contexts. You are empowered to positively impact your profession and the community.

AQF framework

Graduate Diploma - AQF Level 8

Exit 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.

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

Average first year fee*

$17808 Fee-paying

All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of 40 credit points (normally 4 units) per semester.

A student’s annual fee may vary in accordance with:

  • the number of units studied per semester; 
  • the choice of major or specialisation; and 
  • elective units.

The University reviews fees annually.

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.

Explore your options 

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.  

Search our scholarships  

How to apply

Domestic applicants

Direct application

Apply now

Deferment

Deferment is available for one year. Find out more about deferment. 

 

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