Course details

Summary

The Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (PGDipTheol) requires one year of full-time or its equivalent in part-time study. Candidates are required to hold a Bachelor of Theology (BTheol) degree in the major subject of the proposed programme with satisfactory grades.

Required coursework includes the completion of three papers at 400-level, and the writing of a 17,000 word dissertation.

The aim of the programme is to expose a candidate to advanced knowledge and skills in one of the sub-disciplines of Theology. Graduates of the Diploma are able to pursue careers in many fields, including education, counseling, and church-related areas.

Biblical Studies is devoted to the study of the Jewish and Christian Scriptures, looking at the origins of the biblical writings and the history of their interpretation.

Papers

• BIBS 490 Dissertation
• Three further 400-level BIBS papers

A 400-level CHTH, PAST, MINS or RELS paper may be substituted for one 400-level BIBS paper.

Prerequisites: 36 points of either Greek or Hebrew language (or other combinations of papers comprising one year of Greek or Hebrew language study)

Note: Some variations may be possible. For further details consult the University of Otago Calendar or the Head of the Department of Theology and Religion.

Entry criteria

Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities).
Every applicant shall either

• have been admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Theology with an endorsement in the subject or subjects of study proposed, or
• have been admitted with the status of one who is entitled to proceed to the diploma.

English Language Requirements: IELTS - Score of 6.5 in the academic module (with no individual band below 6.0); Internet-based TOEFL Score of 95 with a minimum writing score of 22.; Paper-based TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 587 (TWE 4.5); Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) – Overall score of 176 (with no individual band below 169); Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) – Overall score of 176 (with no individual band below 169); APIEL Advanced Placement International English Language Examination - Grade 4 or higher; Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic - Overall score of 64 with no communicative skills score below 57; University of Otago Foundation Studies Ltd: Completion of 'English for Postgraduate Academic Purposes' with a grade of C or higher.