Bachelor of Theology

In the fractured world of today, where religions are often seen to be the cause of conflict, we need higher levels of religious literacy in society. Is the violence we see on the news what all religious believers understand as legitimate? Is it limited to only a handful of world religions? In this context we need to be able to understand and interpret the diverse religious beliefs and practices around us, and foster understanding between both the religious and non-religious traditions.

Theology at Newcastle offers an hospitable environment within which to explore, deepen understanding, and challenge the perceptions of the world in which we live now, of its historical and religious roots, of the practical impact of the religious traditions and of the wider questions about human existence. The main subject areas are: Biblical Studies, Church History, Ethics, Practical Theology and Spirituality, Systematic Theology, and World Religions.

The programme is of value both for the academic study in its own right, and for understanding the history and beliefs of Christianity and of other religious traditions.

Students also have a wide range of courses in non-Christian religions to choose from during the B.Th. degree - covering Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Sikhism, Australian native spiritualities, New Age movements, among many others.

The courses are designed to appeal to the diversity of Christian Churches and their students, as well as students from other world faiths, indigenous and overseas cultures.

The many opportunities for conversation with other disciplines (philosophy, history, literature and literary studies, sociology, cultural studies, film and media studies, aboriginal studies, education, anthropology, gender studies, politics, social work, the natural and social sciences) make a Theology and/or Biblical Studies degree programme one of the most academically stimulating you could choose.

You will study courses in Theology and Religious Studies, and the program is well-integrated with a broad range of liberal arts courses. Not only does it provide an excellent liberal arts training but it provides an academic foundation for students intending to enter priestly ministry or similar vocations (however, to do so you will need to complete further professional accreditation and training requirements).

If you are interested in reflecting deeply upon humankind, what it is and where it comes from; theories about a Creator or God and the arguments of whether there is a God or not; our role, place and responsibilities in the world by understanding crucial 'sacred texts' from different cultures and contexts, then this degree is for you. The courses on the Theology degree focus on the traditions of Christianity, and introduce the development of Christian doctrine and practice; their influence on different cultures and society; and the various theories and arguments that have taken place within systematic theology, ethics and philosophy. However, there is ample opportunity for engaging with religious traditions that are not Christian, and reflecting deeply on the nature and diversity of religions. So while the program may particularly appeal to those interested in Christian traditions, cultures and contexts it also offers a flexible range of studies in other world religions, in Australian indigenous culture, and for students from quite different professional backgrounds or disciplines seeking a deeper meaning of life revealed in sacred and scientific texts.

The Bachelor of Theology program is a liberal arts degree, and therefore is open to all irrespective of beliefs or religious background. It also offers theology and religious studies courses towards obtaining new certification requirements for chaplains and teachers of religious education in state and denominational high schools. A broad choice of theology and religious studies courses is offered also for students interested in progressing to postgraduate education.

Theology graduates are highly sought for a range of careers, including:

• Healthcare work
• Social organisations and community welfare
• Religious teaching in schools and other educational organisations
• Religious ministry, youth ministry and chaplaincy

Admission to this program is available to Australian students, residents and international students. Please visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/what-can-i-study/undergraduate-programs/how-to-get-in/ for information on how to gain entry.

You may also be eligible to receive bonus points if you will be receiving an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). Please visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/what-can-i-study/undergraduate-programs/how-to-get-in/domestic-students/options-for-entry/bonus-points.html to see if you may be eligible.

If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, go to http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/credit-transfer/ and click on ‘How to Apply for Credit’.

Students who perform well during the Bachelor of Theology degree with a credit average (GPA of 5.0) or greater, may undertake a further year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) study to obtain an Honours degree. The Bachelor of Theology (Honours) degree allows students to further develop their specific areas of interest.

Includes practice-focused experience & electives in secular/ministry workplace settings

Anglican Diocese of Newcastle expects its ordinands to complete this degree as their formal educational qualifications, concurrently with vocational ministry training for priesthood. Other Churches may develop similar requirements in due course.

International students must comply with the University of Newcastle's English language proficiency requirements. All International Students enrolled in the program will be provided with an orientation to familiarise them with the rules, expectations, facilities and services offered by the University. Please visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/international/student-support/ to find out more about the support services available to international students.

Students with disabilities who require reasonable adjustments to undertake their program should contact the Disability Support Service before semester or early in the semester. Some adjustments need up to 4 weeks lead time to organise, so it is imperative that early contact is made. The Disability Support Service and relevant Faculty and School officers will work together to ensure reasonably adjustments are provided in a timely manner.

Please note: All students must fulfil the inherent requirements of the programs and courses they are undertaking. While reasonable adjustments can be made, these adjustments cannot compromise academic integrity. It is the student's responsibility to check all the requirements of courses, and consider the effects of any medical condition or disability on their ability to complete course requirements. Please visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/disability/ for more information.

Some courses are delivered by distance education though the Broken Bay Institute (BBI). More information about BBI can be found at this page http://www.bbi.catholic.edu.au/

All students can access additional learning development mechanisms provided by the Centre for Teaching and Learning.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can draw on the assistance and support provided by the Indigenous Student Support and Development service through the Wollotuka Institute.