Master of Divinity
Course Overview
The SMBC Master of Divinity (MDiv) is designed to prepare you for full-time vocational ministry.
It will give you comprehensive biblical foundations (Old Testament and New Testament) along with deeper study of theology, ethics, church history, cross-cultural mission, preaching and pastoral care. It also provides room for electives which allow you to tailor your course to your interests. A requirement of this course is study of the biblical languages.
Whilst covering the same content as the bachelor degrees, the MDiv academic assessments are at a higher level and offer the possibility of an accelerated pathway to higher degrees by research.
The MDiv is one of the highest levels of study and well recognised by churches and mission agencies. It equips you to preach, teach and provide leadership in ministry and mission – in Australia and overseas.
Note: Studying the MDiv full-time will also provide you the opportunity to concurrently do the SMBC Certificate in Bible and Mission (CBM). The CBM gives you access to all the benefits of SMBC’s expertise in spiritual formation, cross-cultural mission and pastoral ministry. It includes some extra classes, community activities, conferences and College Mission.
Student Testimonials
“I’m a practitioner. During my time at SMBC I missed being on the field so much that I questioned why I was there at times. Now you’ll find me a big advocate for theological education. I’m indebted to SMBC for my formation. The MDiv gave me a depth and breath of training that I don’t think I could’ve found elsewhere. It has set me up for a life-time of gospel ministry.”
Matthias, pastor at St Simon’s Anglican Church, Wellington, NZ
“I still value the breadth of the MDiv. It pushed me to grow on all fronts - biblical, theological, missiological, pastoral and personal. It exposed me to a much bigger world of Christian thought and practice than what I’d previously known. This gave me a bit more humility (I hope!) and discernment than I would have had otherwise to navigate ministry alongside those shaped by different traditions and experiences.”
Rani, CMS missionary
Completing my MDiv at SMBC as a full-time, residential student was an enriching, humbling and sanctifying time both for me and my family. I'm grateful to God, the faculty and fellow students who encouraged, challenged and supported me along the way. While my studies informed my head in areas of Bible, theology and mission; as well as gave me insights for the practical challenges of pastoral ministry; more significantly was the way my heart was transformed through God's Word. There's nothing more important than this pursuit of deep spiritual formation which SMBC embraces and pursues.
Andrew, Rector at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Dubbo
“Setting aside three years to intentionally focus on theological studies, in community and under pastoral-hearted teachers was a great privilege. In my role as a chaplain, I have sat with people from all walks of life and with diverse world views. It is immensely helpful having a firm biblical foundation that shapes my listening and informs my posture and response towards those to whom I minister.”
Christine, Chaplaincy, Lecturer, Jericho Chaplain at Prince of Wales Hospital
“The MDiv course, within the rich community of staff and students at SMBC, stretched my understanding of the Lord and his purposes for his world and his church. But it also gave me the processes and skills to continually go deeper in knowing Christ, propelling me into a lifetime of ministry, Lord willing.”
Dave, Pastor at Grace Evangelical Church, Newcastle
Sample Programs
Admission Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Completed three year non-theological bachelor degree or equivalent.
Language Requirements: IELTS 7.0 overall with a minimum of 7.0 in reading and writing, and 6.5 in listening and speaking OR 10 years in Australia with English being the language primarily spoken both at home and work.
This is a course of the Australian University of Theology. For more detailed information on this course see the AUT course overview and AUT Coursework Course Enrolment Policy.