Associate Degree of Theology & Ministry

Your second year: go deeper into Christian theology and Biblical studies, building on the Diploma of Leadership.

Duration

Year 2 (2 years total)

Study mode

Full-time, on site

Next intake

2027

Overview

Building on the foundations of the Diploma of Leadership, you will dive deeper into Christian Theology and Biblical Studies. You’ll be equipped with guiding principles for Christian ministry in contemporary society, develop spiritual disciplines in your own discipleship, and consider Christian ethics in the context of non-Christian worldviews.

Course outcomes

• Undertaken a survey of the history of Christianity

• Understood the principles of Biblical interpretation

• Applied principles of Christian discipline in your personal life

• Considered the application of Christian ethics in the wider community

• Completed an exegetical survey of the letter to the Romans

• Explored the centrality of Jesus Christ and His saving role in Scripture

Semester 1

Introduction to Church History (H6100P). Christian history from Christ to the birth of the Pentecostal movement: key figures, doctrinal disputes, the creeds, the Reformation and renewal movements.

Biblical Hermeneutics (B6203P). Methods for interpreting and applying Scripture in 21st-century ministry, from word study tools to the Holy Spirit and the Word of God.

Johannine Literature (B6270P). John’s gospel and letters, with their profound statements about the person of Christ, from the Word made flesh to the “I Am” sayings.

Introduction to Personal Transformation (S6103P). Where theology meets psychology: suffering, trauma, healing and wholeness, emotionally healthy spirituality and avoiding burnout.

Semester 2

The Person and Work of Christ (T6210P). Christology and soteriology: the Trinity, the person and nature of Christ, and the work of the cross.

Christian Ethics (E6100P). Think critically through ethical frameworks and apply a Christian ethic to contemporary issues.

Supervised Ministry 2 (P6294P). Builds on Supervised Ministry 1, with one day a week serving in your local church in areas like pastoral care, creative, youth and kids ministry or conferences.

Fieldwork in Pastoral Theology. Put your two years of learning into practice alongside the Planetshakers team at conferences and on tour. An extra cost applies.

Unlocking Romans (B6261P). An exegetical study of Romans, the clearest and fullest teaching of the gospel in the New Testament.

Future pathways

Continue into the Bachelor of Arts (Bible & Theology) / Bachelor of Theology, or the Bachelor of Arts (Pastoral Care & Chaplaincy) / Bachelor of Ministry.

Entry requirements

Successful completion of the Diploma of Leadership or equivalent.

English proficiency: applicants whose prior study was not in English normally need an IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent), with no band below 5.5.

Accreditation

Delivered in partnership with Planetshakers College (course code 112541F). FEE-HELP is available for eligible domestic students. Planetshakers College is a Member Institution of Australian University College of Divinity Ltd (TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12045, CRICOS Provider: 02948J), a nationally recognised higher education provider whose awards it teaches.

How to apply

Applying is simple. Our team will walk with you through every step.

01

Enquire

Tell us a little about yourself and ask any questions you have.

02

Apply

Complete a short application and share your faith journey with us.

03

Meet with us

Have a relaxed conversation with our team, in person or online.

Start your application

FAQs

What are the entry requirements?

Successful completion of the Diploma of Leadership or equivalent.

Is there an international trip?

Yes. Every year includes cross-cultural or international ministry: the Diploma’s mission trip, the Associate Degree’s fieldwork with the Planetshakers team, and the Bachelor’s church planting trip.

Is FEE-HELP available?

Yes. FEE-HELP is available for eligible domestic students, so you can defer your tuition fees. Visit Fees & Scholarships for details.

Ready to discover your calling?

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Nova

Discipleship

College

Suscitans Fortes Discipuli: raising up strong disciples. A ministry of Nova Church Adelaide, in partnership with Planetshakers College.

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Nova Discipleship College delivers its courses in partnership with Planetshakers College. Planetshakers College is a Member Institution of Australian University College of Divinity Ltd (TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12045, CRICOS Provider: 02948J), a nationally recognised higher education provider whose awards it teaches.