Diploma in Ministry Course Information
Description
The MCD Diploma in Ministry (DipMin) is a two year course (or equivalent part time study) that introduces students to the basics of the Scriptures and the Christian faith. The MCD Diploma in Ministry (DipMin) provides a foundation in the key theological disciplines, with opportunity to relate these to ministry practice.
Course Outcome
A Diploma graduate will have studied the foundations of Christian faith and ministry, developed their capacity for analytical thinking, come to engage with ideas, and begun to integrate belief and life. Some graduates will have used their study as part of preparation for Christian ministry.
Course Structure
To be awarded the DipMin, a total of 240 credit points (16 standard units) must be completed.
Each standard Diploma unit (15 credit points) runs for one semester of 15 weeks, including three weeks for reading and examination, and normally has three class hours in each teaching week, including tutorials. Teaching methods typically include lectures, seminars and tutorials with class sizes rarely over 30, and many much smaller classes
Units focused on ministry practice will involve supervised field placements, in which preparation, participation and evaluation of practical work play a key part with class work, observation, and reading.
Diploma students must complete at least 15 points in each of the disciplines of Old Testament, New Testament, Systematic Theology and Church History, plus a further 30 points in either of both of the fields of Biblical Studies and Christian Thought and History.
DipMin students may take a specialisation in one of a number of areas: Pastoral Ministry, Philosophy or Social Justice.
Entry Requirements
The Diplomas are open to persons eligible to enter a degree course at an Australian University.
Assessment Methods
Assessment methods in Diploma courses range from traditional academic essays, assignments and examination to writing a journal, group projects or competency assessment. The methods used for each unit must be approved by the MCD Coursework Studies Committee, to ensure equity in standards.
Duration
The Diploma in Ministry must be completed in not less than two and not more than six years.
Study Modes
Candidates normally attend classes on-campus. The Diploma is also available online via the Theology Online program at the United Faculty of Theology. On-campus students may study some units online.
Requirements to Receive Qualification
240 points, normally sixteen units, including at least 15 points in each of the disciplines of Old Testament, New Testament, Systematic Theology and Church History, plus a further 30 points in either of both of the fields of Biblical Studies and Christian Thought and History.
Students taking a specialisation must, in addition to the requirements listed above, complete 120 points in the area of specialisation.