The Diploma in Christian Studies (with a strand in Christian Leadership, Theological Studies or Intercultural Studies) is a one year full-time (or part-time equivalent) programme. Students who complete the DipCS may staircase into the second year of the Bachelor of Theology degree.

On completion of the Diploma in Christian Studies students will have developed the capacity to tell the biblical story, to read the Scriptures within their wider historical context and to understand a theological framework for life and ministry. Students will have begun the process of developing the disciplines necessary both to maintain their own spiritual growth and to serve in voluntary leadership capacities within the Church and in our world. 

Students choose to enrol in the Christian Leadership strand, the Theological Studies strand or the Intercultural Studies strand. 

• The Christian Leadership strand equips people to evaluate and deliver ministry programmes within their context, to think deeply about their faith, and to lead a wide range of Christian operations. Students are equipped with a biblical and theological foundation upon which applied Christian leadership skills are developed through internship in real life practical contexts.
• The Theological Studies strand provides students with an introduction to biblical studies, theological studies and spiritual formation and prepares them to live out the Gospel of Christ, engaging thoughtfully and compassionately in the world.  
• The Intercultural Studies strand provides students with an introduction to biblical studies, theological studies and spiritual formation, as well as an initial examination of Christian theology, context, and practice within a particular culture.

Students can study towards the DipCS on campus in Henderson, Manukau, Christchurch, by Distance Learning or at one of our Partner Colleges. This programme also allows for a range of flexible learning options, including a combination of on campus and Distance Learning courses, as well as part-time study.

Christian Leadership Strand (DipCS (CL))

The aim of the Christian Leadership strand is to provide graduates who are able to apply a range of key leadership skills to build, lead, and contribute to teams that fulfill organizational goals within church, mission, and community contexts.

Upon completion graduates will be able to:

• Evaluate and apply a broad understanding of theology and biblical foundations to defined contexts based on textual interpretation and religious practice.
• Evaluate a ministry programme based on strategies that integrate personal and community faith journeys, and the social, cultural and other contextual considerations of defined groups.
• Apply key Christian leadership principles to facilitate team development and accomplish organisational goals in particular areas of responsibility in Christian ministry.

The DipCS (CL) programme is made up of four level 5 courses (15 credits each) and two level 5 internship courses (30 credits each).

Click here to view or download a programme summary.

Theological Studies Strand (DipCS (TS))

The aim of the Theological Studies strand is to provide graduates who are able to integrate a broad understanding of theology based on scriptural foundations and ministry practices, and apply these to church, mission, and community contexts in ways that are culturally and ethically appropriate.

Upon completion graduates will be able to demonstrate the following attributes:

• Evaluate and apply a broad understanding of theology and biblical foundations to defined contexts based on textual interpretation and religious practice.
• Evaluate a ministry programme based on strategies that integrate personal and community faith journeys, and the social, cultural and other contextual considerations of defined groups.
• Integrate core tools of theology, biblical texts and ministry practice, and apply these to the broader community to provide leadership and direction that is culturally and ethically appropriate.

The DipCS (TS) programme is made up of eight level 5 courses (15 credits each).

Click here to view or download a programme summary.

Intercultural Studies Strand (DipCS (IS))

The aim of the Intercultural Studies strand is to provide graduates who are able to use intercultural skills and practices to bridge gaps among communities in Aotearoa New Zealand, and provide services in local and global Christian ministry, mission organisations, non-governmental and social organisations, and intercultural communities.

Upon completion graduates will be able to demonstrate the following attributes:

• Evaluate and apply a broad understanding of theology and biblical foundations to defined contexts based on textual interpretation and religious practice.
• Evaluate a ministry programme based on strategies that integrate personal and community faith journeys, and the social, cultural and other contextual considerations of defined groups.
• use intercultural skills and practices to bridge gaps among communities
• provide necessary services in specific roles required of local and global Christian ministry, mission organisations, non-governmental and social service organisations and intercultural communities.

The DipCS (IS) programme is made up of eight level 5 courses (15 credits each).

Click here to view or download a programme summary.

Timetables

Click on the relevant campus timetable to find out when the various courses are taking place.

If you would like to discuss your study options or become a “Student for a Day” please contact:
Brittany Hartmann: [email protected] or  09 837 9791 (for Henderson and Manukau)
Gill Pawson: [email protected] or 03 354 4270 (for Christchurch)

For any Distance Learning enquiries please contact us.

Key Dates

Please click here, to view all important dates.