The Bachelor of Theology course provides opportunity for students to gain a recognised undergraduate degree in theology. It is designed to begin with core units in three of the four Fields of Biblical Studies, Systematic & Moral Theology, Church History, and Philosophy & Humanities, then to offer elective units in these Fields and additionally in a fifth Field, Ministry & Mission, allowing students to major in their chosen area of study.
The course provides a sound foundation for Christian ministry in either a lay or ordained capacity. It is also designed to provide foundational research and analytical skills which may be used as a basis for moving on to honours and/or postgraduate study.
The degree is offered by attendance at lectures on the campuses of member schools.
The Bachelor of Theology degree is arranged in the following Fields of study focussing on key areas for providing the required academic and practical training for Christian ministry.
Field A/B Biblical Studies
Field C Systematic & Moral Theology
Field D Church History
Field E Ministry & Mission
Field H Philosophy & Humanities.
Because of the diverse forms that Christian vocation and ministry can take and the demands involved, considerable flexibility has been provided in the selection of units to take account of the interests and goals of individual students. Students enrolling in the BTh course for the first time are strongly encouraged to seek advice from the Academic Dean of their member school on an appropriate course of study.
Example: Unit Code A52020
A = Section A of Field A/B, ie Old Testament Studies
5 = Bachelor of Theology degree
2 = Unit level assessment requirement
020 = Area of study – Pentateuch.
Specialised study courses are offered in each Field. These advanced electives enable students to undertake an independent study under the guidance of a supervising lecturer. Units coded 52555-6 enable students to study a theme in depth from a specific Field (A, B, A/B, C, D, E or H).
Students electing to take units from Field E: Ministry and Mission may include a number of practicums. The practicums serve as the basis for experiential learning. They constitute a rigorous, well-structured and timely process for enhancing experiential learning. Sustained critical reflection under supervision on one’s practice of ministry promotes ‘deep’ learning, when the following are set in place.
Early Exit
There is no award available for early exit from the course.
Assessment: General Information
Details of assessment are provided in the unit outlines. Generally, the assessment policy requires the elements of variety of instruments, typically three, which address designated learning outcomes, at least one of which should be returned with comment reasonably early in the semester to provide formative as well as summative assessment. (see Assessment.)