Master of Divinity (MDiv)
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is an AQF Level 9 Masters Degree (Extended) award. It provides a systematic and comprehensive study of theological and related disciplines through a structure of specialisations and sub-specialisations. The Master of Divinity is designed for two categories of candidates: those who hold a tertiary qualification…
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COURSE DESCRIPTION
The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is an AQF Level 9 Masters Degree (Extended) award. It provides a systematic and comprehensive study of theological and related disciplines through a structure of specialisations and sub-specialisations.
The Master of Divinity is designed for two categories of candidates:
- those who hold a tertiary qualification in a non-theological discipline, who seek a comprehensive education in theology comparable in breadth and depth to the Bachelor of Theology, including a deeper biblical and theological understanding, spiritual formation, and cultural literacy that will prepare them for ordained or other professional ministry in church, parachurch or non-profit organizations, and other similar vocational settings.
- those who hold a tertiary qualification in a theological discipline who wish to pursue a graduate qualification in theology as part of their continuing ministerial education.
Structure:
Every program for the award shall consist of no fewer than 216 credit points taken from 8100 and 9200 series units in the Schedule of Units of Study.
Every program will include either two specialisations and one subspecialisation, or one specialisation and two subspecialisations.
Every program will include:
a minimum of 72 credit points in 9200 series units;
not more than 72 credit points from Philosophy;
at least a subspecialisation from Biblical Studies;
at least a subspecialisation from Systematic Theology;
at least one unit in Church History;
at least a total of 36 credit points from the following subdisciplines: Christian Ethics, Christian Spirituality, Pastoral Counselling, Worship & Liturgy, Mission, Pastoral Theology;
not more than 108 credit points in Pastoral Theology;
at least one 9200 series Generic Research unit;
up to a maximum of 36 credit points in units listed as Generic (Research) units in the Schedule of Units of Study with a maximum of 18 credit points in Independent Guided Study units, 18 credit points in Research Project units, and 18 credit points as a Research Essay.
Outcomes
Knowledge
Graduates will have an integrated understanding of an advanced body of knowledge in some theologically-related disciplines or areas of practice, including the extended understanding of recent developments in theology and/or theological practice.
understanding research principles and methods applicable to these theological disciplines and their practice.
Skills
Graduates will have expert cognitive and technical skills in a theologically-related body of knowledge, so that they are able independently to:
analyse critically, reflect on and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories associated with a theologically-related body of knowledge.
research and apply established theories to a theologically-related body of knowledge or practice.
interpret and transmit knowledge, skills and ideas through coherent and sustained argument to specialist and non-specialist audiences in relation to a theologically-related body of knowledge.
Applications of Knowledge and Skills
Graduates will have the ability to:
apply knowledge and skills in a way that demonstrates autonomy, expert judgment, adaptability, and accountability as a practitioner and/or learner in relation to the inter-dependent building up of the church and good of the wider community.
plan and execute a research-based project, and/or piece of scholarship in an area of theology.
REQUIREMENTS
Admission to the Master of Divinity requires:
Satisfactory completion of a three-year AQF Level 7 or 8 award in any discipline.
English Proficiency
Applicants whose entry qualifications were obtained in an institution where English is not the language of instruction normally require a minimum IELTS (or equivalent) overall score of at least 7.0 with no subtest below 7.0.
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Formed in 1983, the Sydney College of Divinity is a consortium of theological colleges in Sydney. The College awards undergraduate, postgraduate and research programs. Undergraduate programs and diplomas are offered in the fields of Theology, Arts and Divinity. Research programs are offered in Theology, Ministry, Arts and Philosophy. The College is located in Sydney, New South Wales.