Diploma of Theology
Course Overview
The SMBC Diploma of Theology (DipTh) is a great place to begin your theological studies and discover where God is preparing you to serve.
It will give you essential biblical foundations (Old Testament and New Testament) along with 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, particularly theology and Bible units.
The DipTh is the equivalent of the first year of the three year bachelor degree and opens up pathways to further study. It equips you to serve in a local church, para-church ministry, or alongside your existing profession on the mission field. Full-time vocational ministry usually requires further study.
Note: Studying the DipTh 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
Studying the DipTh at SMBC gave me greater insight into the overarching story of the Bible and how each genre and book contributes to it.It gave me skills to better delve into and understand the Bible. The SMBC community encouraged me, both inside and outside of the classroom, to grow in my relationship with God and my understanding of His plans and purposes for His world.
Leila, SMBC/The Bridge graduate, Media/Arts student at UNSW
The DipTh provided me with a great foundation for Christian theology and Biblical literacy. SMBC also modelled life in a community of believers that promotes personal spiritual growth alongside academic learning. Consistent across the course were engaging lectures, high-quality content, and, perhaps most importantly, lecturers who were always willing to chat outside class hours to tackle additional questions.
Nathan, SMBC graduate, student at UNSW
Sample Program
Admission Requirements
ATAR: Completion of Year 12 in the last two years, with an ATAR of 65 or above; OR
Previous Qualifications: Successful completion of a qualification at AQF Level 5 or above; OR
Demonstrate Academic Suitability for course: Test, Brief Essay, or Interview.
Language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum of 6.0 in each subtest OR 10 years in Australia with English being the language primarily spoken both at home and work. See English Language Proficiency Policy.
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.