Professional Development

SMBC’s Graduate Certificate of Divinity pathways are a great opportunity to ‘fill up the tank’ and go further in your ministry journey.

Ideal for those already with a 3 year theological degree and some ministry or mission experience, these tailored pathways will allow you to dig deeper, explore issues and hone your skills at an advanced level.

Your four units can be completed over 6 months to 2 years, giving 48 credit points (minimum AQF level 8) for an Australian University of Theology (AUT) accredited Graduate Certificate of Divinity. The Certificate offers significant ministry development and the units are available in a range of on-campus and off-campus (online) formats.

You can choose one of our specialised pathways, or design your own bespoke pathway from any AQF level 8/9 units offered at SMBC. Each pathway provides a foundation of Bible units alongside specialised units. Regular yearly cycles of Old Testament, New Testament, theology, preaching, pastoral care, missions, leadership skills and contemporary issues will give you a variety of options to choose from.

Seasoned practitioners from the SMBC faculty as well as guest lecturers, along with fellow students, will bring you the best of learning in community – fresh resources, stretching discussion and immediate application.

The SMBC Graduate Certificate of Christian Mentoring builds competence for Christian mentoring at an advanced level.

You’ll also be equipped with knowledge and skill in the related areas of professional supervision and ministry coaching.

The SMBC Master of Theological Studies is designed to provide you with opportunities to develop your ministry skills and facilitate further theological contemplation.

Based on coursework, a feature of the MTS is the opportunity to do assessments that have direct relevance to your current ministry involvement.

Higher degrees by research are designed to equip people to provide leadership in Christian thought and practice through rigorous, critical analysis of issues.

If you love to think long and hard about how the gospel shapes practice, a higher degree by research (HDR) may be for you. These qualifications are particularly relevant for those wishing to pursue a teaching ministry in colleges and universities.