Graduate Diploma in Theology

Browse the units available this year here

The Graduate Diploma in Theology provides an introduction to theological study for graduates in another discipline. It requires 90 points of study (6 units at graduate level) and can be completed full-time over two semester, or part-time over three years. Three units must be Foundational, from at least two different Fields of study. At the UFT, students are encouraged, however, to take at least four units at Foundational level. 

After completion of Foundational study, students may then take up to three Elective units, building on their foundational studies. The Graduate Diploma may also include a 12000 word research essay, equivalent to 30 points and replacing 2 Elective units. The Graduate Diploma can lead to further study in Theology, in particular the Master of Arts, and, where a 12000 word essay is included, to some research higher degrees. Alternatively, students may upgrade from the Graduate Diploma to the Master of Divinity at any point prior to graduation from the Graduate Diploma.

Students who already hold a degree in Theology can enrol for a specialised Graduate Diploma. These students do not need to take Foundational units, and instead pursue a specialised sequence of 6 units in a single discipline, such as Liturgy, Religious Education, Spirituality, Moral Theology, Biblical Studies, or Church History. The specialised Graduate Diploma may include a 12000 word research essay (30 points).

In 2009 two new specialised Graduate Diplomas are available, in Educational Chaplaincy and in Pastoral Care, providing graduate  qualifications and a route to further study for practitioners in these areas. Further details of these courses are available from the UFT website or office. 

Students may defer their studies in the Graduate Diploma for no longer than one year (continuous or cumulative). Permission for further deferral must be sought from the MCD through the UFT Dean.