Graduate Certificate in Theology

In the fractured world of today, where religions are seen to be the cause of, and even the opposition to violence, we need higher levels of religious literacy in society. We need to be able to understand and interpret the diverse religious beliefs and practices around us, and foster understanding between religions. Our School of Humanities and Social Sciences is uniquely placed to participate in this enterprise at the highest levels, and the department of Theology is particularly well placed to facilitate a deep and intensive understanding of Christian thought and life.

Students in the Graduate Certificate in Theology may take a generic program or specialise in one of the following areas:

• Spirituality
• Liturgical Studies
• Religious Education
• Mission and Culture
• Youth and Campus Ministry.

Recent Theological appointments demonstrate the University of Newcastle's commitment to teaching and research that is of the highest quality. New staff are acknowledged as world experts in their respective theological fields. Students, therefore, develop their skills in association with approachable educators of high repute.

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 program one of the most academically stimulating you could choose.

As a liberal arts program the Graduate Certificate program allows students to prepare for a wide range of careers including teaching, social work, the caring professions, journalism and the media and various forms of Christian ministry.

Concurrent Enrolment in a Teaching Program and the Graduate Certificate of Theology

Subject to certain eligibility criteria being met, students enrolled in the 3rd or 4th year of an initial teacher education program or a Master of Teaching (either at the University of Newcastle or at another institution) may apply to enrol concurrently in the Graduate Certificate in Theology at the University of Newcastle. Upon completion of your teaching qualification, you will have a competitive edge in the market place and increased career opportunities. You will need to ensure that you are able to meet the demands of both programs. For more information, see the procedure which is linked from "further Information" at the top of this page

Admission to the Graduate Certificate in Theology requires the completion of a relevant undergraduate degree in an area other than Theology at the University of Newcastle or other tertiary institution.

Admission to this program is available to Australian students and residents. Please visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/campaigns/postgrad/how-to-apply.html for information on how to gain entry.

An undergraduate degree

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 complete the Graduate Certificate in Theology will be eligible for 40 units of credit towards the Master of Theology Award.

International students who wish to enrol in this program from their home country and study by distance education are permitted to apply, however this program is not available to international students who are studying on campus in Australia.

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.

All Theology courses offered as 'Online-Broken Bay Institute (BBI)', 'Seminar-Broken Bay Institute (BBI)' or 'Distance-Broken Bay Institute (BBI)’, will be taught through The Broken Bay Institute, a leading provider in online/seminar/distance Catholic theological education. BBI courses are open to all and delivered in partnership with the University of Newcastle. For more information, visit The Broken Bay Institute website and make direct contact with the Institute http://www.bbi.catholic.edu.au/. All courses offered as 'Callaghan' or 'online Callaghan' or 'distance Callaghan' will be run from the Callaghan campus.

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.