Course Description

In addition to Bible and Christian Thought units, the Undergraduate Certificate of Theology has an emphasis on Christian Thought Units in the areas of Theology, Church History, and Philosophy & Ethics, and introduces students, in a systematic manner, to the classical discipline of theology, as a means of preparing men and women for well-informed participation in the life of the church.

See the ACT website for the full list of course learning outcomes.

Entry Requirements

• ATAR: Completion of Year 12 with an ATAR of 65 or above; OR
• Previous Qualifications: Successful completion of a qualification at AQF Level 5 or above; OR
• Demonstrate Academic Suitability for course: Test, Brief Essay, or Interview.
• Language Qualifications for NESB: IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum of 6.0 in each subtest OR 10 years in Australia with English being the language primarily spoken both at home and work.

Study Pathway

This course provides a smooth pathway into the Diploma, Associate Degree and Bachelor of Ministry/Theology awards, should a student wish to articulate.

Career Options:

The course provides foundational knowledge and skills appropriate to Christian ministry, but not to the depth required for leaders and teachers in congregations, for which vocations the Bachelor of Theology, Bachelor of Ministry, Master of Ministry, and the Master of Divinity have been devised. It is ideal for anyone wanting a short course to target specific areas of study (e.g. youth/children's ministry, pastoral care, Bible overview), or who wants to sample theological education without committing to a longer award.

Graduates of this course may be well-informed members of a church-ministry team with shared responsibility for the Christian education program, or a member of a church pastoral ministry team under the leadership of a qualified practitioner with a degree in theology or ministry. 

Credit Points

4 units (48 credit points) at AQF level 5 and above.

Course Duration

Minimum 6 months, maximum 4 years*.

Study Modes

Units are available both on-campus and online.

Campuses this course is delivered at:

Sydney Campus & Perth Campus

* The Undergraduate Certificate has been accredited by the Council of Australian Government (COAG) Education and Skills Council and the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) until 30/06/2025. The qualification cannot be awarded after accreditation expires. Students are therefore only eligible to enrol in the course, where they plan to complete all course requirements by 30/06/2025. There will be a government review of the Undergraduate Certificate programs prior to the current expiry date of 30/06/2025.