Diploma in Theological Studies (Level 5)

At Alphacrucis we believe that theological study is profoundly important to Christian faith, life and ministry. It is not about learning an abstract set of ideas, but it involves consideration of why we believe, how we believe, and how our beliefs shape who we are and what we do in the world. This programme provides a unique opportunity to engage in theological and ministry education within the framework of a Pentecostal-Charismatic expression of the faith.

The Diploma in Theological Studies is a programme designed to provide students foundational understanding of the biblical texts, use the tools of exegesis, describe the core theological beliefs of the Christian tradition and apply these to spirituality, church life and mission in a variety of contemporary contexts. Graduates will have developed skills in pastoral ministry and leadership, grounded in a theological framework and locating Christian mission in local, bicultural and cross-cultural contexts.

Course Structure

Narrative of the First Testament (15 credits)
Writings of the New Testament (15 credits)
Understanding the Faith (15 credits)
Communicating the Gospel (15 credits)
History of Christianity (15 credits)
Leadership Principles (15 credits)
Introduction to Ministry (15 credits)
Introduction to Cross-Cultural Ministry (15 credits)

Accreditation

This programme leads to the New Zealand Diploma in Christian Studies (Level 5) with a strand in Theological Studies. Alphacrucis is registered and accredited by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority under the provisions of the Education Act 1989 to provide education and training based on the National Qualifications Framework. Alphacrucis has approval and accreditation to deliver this programme. Alphacrucis is a signatory to the Code of Practice for the Pastoral care of International Students.

Entry Requirements

IELTS

International students should have a minimum English ability equivalent to IELTS 5.5.

Academic Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements Minimum 18 years of age with high school literacy and numeracy skills. Pastoral reference required.

Fees

Complete Fee Schedules and FEE-HELP information (where appropriate) for all Alphacrucis courses can be found in our Documents section, under the Fees and FEE-HELP Information link.

Pastor Kerry Gordon (faculty profile)

Units offered as part of this Award:

BIBM01 - Narrative of the First Testament: Description: This paper introduces the First Testament with particular focus on issues of the historical, social and religious background(s) of the books, on the one hand, and more contemporary questions of theological themes and ethics on the other. The paper will include an overview of many of the books of the First Testament and the distinctive elements they contain. Unit detail page >>
BIBM02 - Writings of the New Testament: Description: To give a broad introduction to the New Testament literature within its social and historical context. Unit detail page >>
HIS101 - History of Christianity: Description: This introductory paper covers key turning points in Christian history from Christ to the contemporary era, with a view to providing a basis for future historical and theological studies. Unit detail page >>
LEAM01 - Leadership Principles: Description: This paper provides the student with an understanding of the principles of leadership as applicable to a church context. Unit detail page >>
MINM01 - Introduction to Ministry: Description: This paper incorporates learning experiences at theological, historical, and practical levels with opportunity to develop a strategic template for contemporary ministry. Unit detail page >>
MINM02 - Communicating the Gospel: Description: This introductory paper covers key turning points in Christian history from Christ to the contemporary era, with a view to providing a basis for future historical and theological studies. Unit detail page >>
MISM01 - Introduction to Cross-Cultural Ministry: Description: This paper will give you an overview of the foundations of the call to cross cultural ministry as well as helping you understand and appreciate culture in this context. We will explore the practical issues of a lifestyle of cross cultural ministry and look at some of the ways we can sensitively reach out to those who hold differing beliefs Unit detail page >>
THEM01 - Understanding the Faith: A Survey of Christian Doctrine: Description: This paper looks at how our theology is formed and applies a formative understanding of Christian thoughts on the doctrines of God, creation and redemption. Unit detail page >>