Ministry

Diploma of Ministry

CRICOS: 094096J

Can you see yourself leading and serving with profound impact in a ministry or church that is not scared of the future? The Diploma of Ministry at Alphacrucis University College is designed to equip the next generation of Christian leaders with the theological foundation and practical expertise needed to thrive in today’s dynamic ministry contexts.

Course Duration
1 year full time, up to 4 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face
Study Locations
Online, Sydney*, Brisbane*, Melbourne*, Perth*, Adelaide*
* Some subjects are available on campus, see the timetable to confirm location and mode.
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2), November (Summer)
Fees
$1,565 per subject
FEE-HELP
Subjects/Units
8

What is the Diploma of Ministry?

The Diploma of Ministry provides a comprehensive foundation in theology and biblical studies, shaping a robust Christian worldview that connects directly to your vocation. This course offers opportunities to develop essential writing and communication skills, and to apply the best of Christian and Pentecostal thought to your own ministry settings. Drawing on AC’s established expertise in ministry, the Diploma of Ministry prepares you to lead with confidence, insight, and compassion, making a positive contribution to the Church and society.

Who is this for?

Are you called to serve and lead in church or ministry settings and seek a strong theological foundation?

Do you want to deepen your knowledge and enhance your practical skills for more effective ministry?

Do you aim to impact not-for-profit and missions-focused organisations with your ministry skills?

Thinking about further study? The Diploma of Ministry can provide you a significant head start should you wish to move into the Bachelor of Ministry.

If you think the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes’, it is time to consider starting your Diploma of Ministry.

Outcomes

Qualifies you theologically to be a minister in any church in the Australian Christian Churches movement.*

Lead and support congregations and church initiatives with theological wisdom and practical skills.

Drive mission-driven initiatives and lead teams in faith-based non-profit environments.

Lead and manage outreach and mission projects, making a meaningful impact in communities.

My time at AC has enabled me to preach better, pastor more effectively, and has helped to cultivate an even greater love for the word of God. I have learnt that it is important to grow in our development and understanding of the Bible, but it is incredibly valuable to do so with a Pentecostal lens. Our heritage as a movement is crucial to who we are and how we minister to others.

Katrina Yassi, Campus Pastor, Faith Christian Church

Accreditation

*This course meets the theological qualification requirements to be an ordained minister in churches that are part of the Australian Christian Churches movement, which represents over 1,100 churches throughout Australia and neighbouring countries.

If your church is part of another denomination, please check with your church or denomination office if this course is also recognised for credentialled ministry.

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Work-Integrated Learning

Work-Integrated Learning may be undertaken through various Professional Practice and Professional Experience subjects at AC. These subjects seek to create a direct linkage between the learning, skills and values engaged in lectures, and the reflection which occurs when these are applied in real-life settings. These work-based training subjects comprise of instruction, academic assessment and a placement in a workplace for each subject.

Students are usually required to find their own workplace/ employer/ mentor to be approved by AC. In some cases, a new aspect within a student’s current paid employment may be suitable as a work placement.

More Information

For more information and details of previous course structures see Student Handbook.

*You can also use the Subject & Unit Search to explore the subjects (including electives) available to enrol in for this course and can filter by subject area and level.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.

What people say

  • Learning Outcomes

    Knowledge

    • General understanding of key issues, recent scholarship and practices within the discipline area of ministry, consistent with a Christian worldview.
    • Depth of understanding of practical fieldwork.
    • Technical and theoretical understanding of basic research principles and methods, and knowledge of research approaches used in the discipline area of ministry.

    Ability

    • Identify, analyse and synthesise theoretical knowledge in the discipline area of ministry.
    • Examine a complex problem or management requirements using appropriate methodologies and theories from the discipline area of ministry.
    • Communicate technical and creative skills to express ideas and perspective related to the discipline area of ministry.
    • Transfer knowledge and specialised ministry skills to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts.
    • Apply theoretical and technical knowledge and skills acquired within the specialist area of ministry in a range of professional contexts.
    • Work independently, responsibly and with the level expected in a broad range of professional and ministry contexts.
    • Collaborate in team projects to make a positive contribution toward social issues.
    • Undertake self-reflection and evaluation of performance for the purpose of vocational development.

    Pathways

    Diploma of Ministry

    5 Core + 3 Electives
    Find out more

    Bachelor of Ministry

    12 Core + 7 Restricted Electives + 5 Electives
    Find out more

    Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Ministry

    18 Core + 8 Specialisation + 6 Restricted Electives
    Find out more

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    International Students – Language Requirements

    IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 6.0 (with no score below 5.5 in any of the four skills areas)

    International Students – Language Requirements

    IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 5.5 (with no score below 5.0 in any of the four skills areas).

    Work and Life Experience – Applicants over 21 who do not meet academic requirements

    If you are over 21: apply for admission and complete the provisional entry qualifying period to become a full candidate of the course.

    This is an alternate pathway for applicants who do not meet other academic requirements.

    Work and Life Experience – Applicants under 21 who do not meet academic requirements

    If you are under 21: apply for non-award study and complete the provisional entry qualifying period to become a full candidate of the course.

    This is an alternate pathway for applicants who do not meet other academic requirements.

    Higher Education Study

    Completion of an AQF Level 5 Higher Education Diploma (or higher) by an authorised institution.

    Vocational Education and Training (VET)

    Completion of a Certificate III or higher by an authorised institution or registered training organisation.

    Recent Secondary Education (with the past 2 years)

    Completion of NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) (or the completion of an International Baccalaureate or the interstate or overseas equivalent qualification).

    How to Apply

    • Get Started

      Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.

    • Apply

      It’s easy! Apply online below or contact us and we can help on 1300 228 355.

    • Offer

      We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.

    Key Dates
    Semester 1
    Term 1
    February / March
    Term 2
    April
    Semester 2
    Term 3
    July / August
    Term 4
    November