The Associate Degree of Theology requires two year of full-time study (or the equivalent part-time). The course is offered by the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences.

The Associate Degree of Theology is only offered as an exit award for students currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Theology who choose not to complete that program.

Course aims

The Associate Degree of Theology aims to deepen the understanding and expression of Christian faith.

This course is inter-disciplinary, combining biblical studies, church history, and systematic theology. It includes an optional stream comprising professional ministry studies such as pastoral care, Christian education and preaching. It is ecumenical, dealing with the Christian tradition in all its diversity.

The Associate Degree of Theology aims to provide students an opportunity to:

  • develop a broad understanding and expression of Christian faith
  • study Christian traditions and thought, including systematic theology, biblical studies, church history and ministry studies
  • examine and reflect upon Christian traditions and to develop an understanding of connections with other disciplines, in the context of modern Australian culture and society
  • develop sound communication and presentation skills (both oral and written).

Learning outcomes

On completion of the Associate Degree of Theology, students will be able to demonstrate:

  • a broad level of knowledge and expression of Christian faith, and of the academic study of Christian traditions and thought
  • a capacity to make connections between Christian traditions and other disciplines, in the context of contemporary society
  • an ability to reason and argue clearly, and to understand one or more complex positions involving Christian traditions and values in modern Australian culture and society
  • sound communication and presentation skills (both oral and written).

Program of study

To qualify for the Associate Degree of Theology, a student must complete at least 72 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the following program of study.

The 72 units must include:

  • at least 54 units of THEO topics;
  • at least 27 units must have been studied at level one; and
  • at least 27 units must have been studied at level two or three.