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11089NAT Diploma of Christian Ministry

Are you called to lead and serve in today’s dynamic and diverse church environment? The Diploma of Christian Ministry at Alphacrucis University College is designed to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge needed to effectively minister in a variety of contexts. This vocational program focuses on hands-on training and real-world applications, with teaching, mentoring and inspiration from experienced Pentecostal pastors and ministers.

Course Duration
1 Semester, up to 4 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live, Online Intensive
Study Locations
Online
Start Dates
Term 1 (Jan), Term 2 (Apr), Term 3 (July), Term 4 (Oct)
Fees
$1,490 per subject
Subjects/Units
12

What is the 11089NAT Diploma of Christian Ministry?

The Diploma of Christian Ministry is a practical, vocational course that provides essential training for those aspiring to or currently serving in ministry roles. This program covers key areas such as biblical knowledge, theological understanding, and pastoral skills, ensuring you are well-prepared to handle scripture, manage church administration, and empower those you lead. Whether you are involved in administration, children's ministry, church planting, community work, creative ministry, leadership, cross-cultural ministry, or youth ministry, this diploma offers the flexibility to tailor your studies to your specific ministry context.

Who is this for?

Are you passionate about serving and leading in a church or ministry setting?

Do you seek to develop practical skills in biblical interpretation, theology, and pastoral care?

Are you looking for a flexible, vocational course that fits into your busy life and ministry schedule?

If these resonate with you, the Diploma of Christian Ministry is designed to help you flourish in ministry!

Outcomes

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

Prepare for roles in pastoral leadership, administration, chaplaincy, children’s ministry, church planting, community work, creative ministry, leadership, cross-cultural ministry, women’s ministry, and youth ministry.

Enhance your qualifications and capabilities to serve and lead in today’s diverse church environments.

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

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

To achieve the qualification 11089NAT Diploma of Christian Ministry the learner must complete twelve units with at least 1 unit from Group A and at least 1 stream from Group B.

Core
7 Units
Analyse cultural history and theory CUARES503

Gain the skills to research, analyse, and discuss cultural history and theory, enhancing your creative or professional practice. This subject empowers you to develop critical insights, engage in informed debates, and integrate historical and contemporary perspectives into your work, fostering deeper cultural awareness and innovation.

Implement and evaluate a ministry activity NAT11089001

Through this unit, students are provided with the skills necessary to prepare, implement and evaluate ministry activities for their specific circumstances.

Establish and develop community organisations or social enterprises NAT11088006

Understanding and applying the Bible for personal and communal growth is an important skill. This subject focuses on hermeneutic practices to interpret biblical texts accurately and meaningfully. Students will learn to create thoughtful responses that edify both themselves and their communities. They will also receive useful feedback, refining their interpretations and responses.

Interpret the Bible for personal and communal edification NAT11088006

Understanding and applying the Bible for personal and communal growth is an important skill. This subject focuses on hermeneutic practices to interpret biblical texts accurately and meaningfully. Students will learn to create thoughtful responses that edify both themselves and their communities. They will also learn to seek and use feedback from church leaders, to assist them in refining their interpretations and responses.

Investigate and interpret the message of a New Testament book NAT11089004

This unit provides students with the skills needed for interpreting books within the New Testament and for communicating its message and values.

Induct disciples into the central beliefs and practices of a church NAT11088001

Understanding the central beliefs and practices of a church is foundational for effective discipleship. This subject trains students to induct others into these principles, blending theological education with practical guidance. Students will learn to prepare and implement a discipleship plan, communicate key doctrines, and facilitate participation in sacraments. They will also assist new disciples in integrating into church life.

Contribute to association governance AHCCCF404

Develop the skills to actively support association governance by monitoring activities, managing risks, and ensuring compliance with ethical and legislative requirements. Learn to contribute effectively to committee meetings, oversee finances, and identify opportunities for growth, helping organisations run smoothly and make a positive community impact.

Prescribed Electives
5 Units
Group A - Theology and Worldview (choose at least 1 of the following units)
Investigate and apply a Pentecostal worldview NAT11089005

In this unit, students will delve into the historical and distinctive aspects of Pentecostal beliefs, emphasising the central role of the Holy Spirit. Students will learn to describe and apply the gifts of the Spirit responsibly and explore Pentecostal approaches to spirituality, equipping them to teach and model these principles effectively in both church settings and broader society.

Investigate and apply a Christian worldview NAT11089006
Research and critique the relevance of the doctrine of Christ NAT11089002

Deepen your understanding of Christ’s doctrine by critically examining its historical, theological, and contemporary significance. This unit equips you to evaluate key Christological beliefs, engage in meaningful discussions, and apply theological insights to ministry and personal faith, strengthening your ability to articulate and defend Christian doctrine.

Group B - Elective Streams (choose at least 1 of the following streams)
Chaplaincy (choose at least 2 of the following subjects)
Provide foundational care in a church ministry setting NAT11088003

Gaining skills in providing foundational care in a church ministry setting is crucial for maintaining the well being of both the caregiver and those receiving care. This subject equips students with strategies for effective self-care and responsive listening so that in the context of various church ministry teams, they can refer team members to the correct avenue of care. Participants will practice creating supportive environments, using active listening skills, and engaging in reflective debriefing with experienced pastoral carers.

Respond to client needs CHCCCS016

Gain a holistic understanding of client needs. In various cases, people you are supporting may have a range of issues outside and in addition to the area of immediate focus or expertise of the worker and their organisation.

Work with people with mental health issues CHCMHS001

This unit enables students to support those who have mental health challenges and to ensure the client is empowered and supported and referred to other appropriate services to ensure wellbeing and safety for the client at all times.

Provide loss and grief support CHCCCS017

Responding to grief and loss is apart of life, therefore, this unit equips students with the skills to support others and provide appropriate resources for those experience grief and loss.

Support people to improve relationships CHCFAM003

Learn how to help individuals and families strengthen their relationships using a strengths-based approach. This unit equips you to identify relationship challenges, provide practical support, and make appropriate referrals, fostering healthier, more positive connections in diverse community settings. Ideal for those working in community services.

Provide pastoral supervision in clinical practice NAT11089007
Analyse the theology of chaplaincy practice NAT11089008
Provide pastoral care DEFCHP001

This unit enables students to identify appropriate pastoral care needs of a client and to ensure current and future supports are effective and available to clients.

Children's (choose at least 2 of the following subjects)
Identify and respond to children and young people at risk CHCPRT001
Work effectively with young people and their families CHCYTH011
Support ministry to children or young people CHCYTH011
Work with diverse people CHCDIV001

This unit equips students to engage respectfully with individuals to ensure cultural competency, by demonstrating respect, inclusion and diversity of all people.

Provide foundational care in a church ministry setting NAT11088003

Gaining skills in providing foundational care in a church ministry setting is crucial for maintaining the well being of both the caregiver and those receiving care. This subject equips students with strategies for effective self-care and responsive listening so that in the context of various church ministry teams, they can refer team members to the correct avenue of care. Participants will practice creating supportive environments, using active listening skills, and engaging in reflective debriefing with experienced pastoral carers.

Church Planting (choose at least 2 of the following subjects)
Develop strategies for church planting NAT11089010

This unit provides the skills necessary to develop church planting strategies. It recognises that planting models vary according to the denomination and skill sets of the planting team, as well as the particular needs of the community.

Implement principles of church development NAT11089011

This subject provides students with skills to aid in the development and growth of healthy churches. It is based on the use of basic church health tools and indicators, as well as team coaching models that facilitate church development.

Community (choose at least 2 of the following subjects)
Work with diverse people CHCDIV001

This unit equips students to engage respectfully with individuals to ensure cultural competency, by demonstrating respect, inclusion and diversity of all people.

Work within a community development framework CHCCDE003
Develop and implement service programs CHCCCS007
Develop workplace communication strategies CHCCOM003
Support participative planning processes CHCCDE001
Develop and support relevant community resources CHCCDE005
Support community action CHCCDE008
Develop and support community leadership CHCCDE009
Participate in community engagement NAT11089012
Understand and develop a worldview NAT11089013

This unit identifies and defines the concept of worldview in our contemporary society and considers the implications for—and application of—worldview to organisations and leadership.

Creative (choose at least 2 of the following subjects)
Write song lyrics CUAMCP312

Can anyone write lyrics? Should lyrics not be judged because they are personal expressions of the lyricists’ thoughts and feelings or should lyrics be rigorously assessed for their doctrinal accuracy and relevance? This unit looks at both the underlying questions of why lyrics exist, as well as the very practical ways in which writers can hone their thoughts and ideas into powerful and profound words.

Create simple musical pieces using music technology CUAMCP313

In today's world, technology abounds to capture our musical creations. You never need lose that "great hook" or "brilliant riff" again. Learn how to use or improve your use of technology to record music in this unit.

Prepare for musical performances CUAMPF312

Great performances are not by chance. Great preparation makes a significant difference to the final performance. In this unit you will develop the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary to prepare for performances effectively and efficiently.

Rehearse music for group performances CUAMPF411

Often, we as musicians/singers are not performing alone. Rehearsing effectively together provides the confidence to perform well together. This hands-on unit deals with all of the knowledge and skills necessary to make rehearsing music as a group effective and efficient.

Perform music as part of a group CUAMPF414

Following the personal and group rehearsals comes the performance. This unit addresses all of the issues that surround performance. From the relations-management to the organising of equipment, from effective sound-checks to de-briefing performances, if you play/sing in a band... this unit will help you.

Develop instrumental techniques and expand repertoire CUAMPF515

This unit equips you with essential personal management skills, focusing on personality analysis, goal setting, time prioritisation, and effective group communication. By strengthening your character and organisational abilities, you enhance your capacity to motivate and engage others effectively. Understanding both your needs and those of your team is crucial in cultivating a leadership style that truly inspires and influences.

Use social media and online tools SIRXOSM003
Develop social media engagement plans BSBMKG546
Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledge CUAIND512

No information

Coordinate media production services and resources CUAPPM416

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to organise and coordinate administrative and resource requirements prior to and during media productions including films, dramas, documentaries, television, radio, coverage of live concerts and events, theatre productions and festivals.The unit applies to those who work as production coordinators, unit managers and first assistant directors in supervising a team and reporting to a production manager, director or producer.

Provide musical leadership in performance CUAMPF517
Leadership (choose at least 2 of the following subjects)
Develop personal character and relationship skills NAT11089015

This unit equips you with essential personal management skills, focusing on personality analysis, goal setting, time prioritisation, and effective group communication. By strengthening your character and organisational abilities, you enhance your capacity to motivate and engage others effectively. Understanding both your needs and those of your team is crucial in cultivating a leadership style that truly inspires and influences.

Apply Christian ethical principles NAT11089017
Lead team effectiveness BSBLDR414
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to lead teams. It involves developing team plans to meet expected outcomes, leading the work team, and proactively working with the management of the organisation.
Implement and monitor WHS policies, procedures and programs BSBWHS411
Manage team effectiveness BSBTWK502
The unit applies to individuals ministering at a managerial level who lead and build a positive culture within their ministry teams. At this level, ministry will normally be carried out using complex and diverse methods and procedures requiring the exercise of considerable discretion and judgement. It will also involve using a range of problem solving and decision-making strategies.
Make presentations BSBCMM411

In this subject, students will gain practical skills in planning effective communication strategies, executing them with confidence, and evaluating their impact within the context of speaking from the platform in church services.

Provide workplace mentoring PSPGEN035
Provide workplace coaching PSPGEN036
Lead and facilitate a team BSBXTW401

Ministry team leadership is key to achieving church ministry goals and fostering a positive ministry culture. This subject teaches students to plan and monitor team outcomes effectively, ensuring every member is accountable and motivated. Students will learn to coordinate efforts smoothly, support their peers through coaching, and implement strategies to address challenges proactively.

Use information technology systems AURAKA001
Identify leaders and develop leadership skills NAT11089016

This subject provides strategies for recognising leadership potential and enhancing leadership capabilities. As a core unit in the Diploma of Leadership, it lays the groundwork for building influential leaders.

Cross-Cultural (choose at least 2 of the following subjects)
Work with diverse people CHCDIV001

This unit equips students to engage respectfully with individuals to ensure cultural competency, by demonstrating respect, inclusion and diversity of all people.

Perform cross cultural ministry NAT11089018
Develop skills in cross cultural ministry NAT11089019
Apply transition skills into another culture NAT11089020
Research and analyse religions from around the world NAT11089021
Pastoral (choose at least 2 of the following subjects)
Create tools facilitating the learning and communication of the Bible NAT11088005

This unit guides students to summarise the Bible's overarching narrative, identify key themes, and communicate them effectively to contemporary audiences. Participants will also learn to create a long-term, self-directed study plan to move themselves from a general understanding to a deep grasp of the Bible’s teachings across their lifetime.

Research and critique Christian theology NAT11089023
Preach a sermon NAT11089024

This unit prepares students with the skills needed for preaching in a variety of contexts and ministry environments.

Use communication to build relationships CHCCOM002

This unit provides the skills and knowledge to apply specific communication tools to establish.... based on respect, trust and empowerment.

Recruit, induct and support volunteers CHCVOL003
Recruit and coordinate volunteers CHCVOL003
Uncover the competencies necessary to recruit, orientate, develop and support volunteer workers in an agency, service or program. Workers at this level will be responsible for the ongoing coordination and supervision of volunteers who may be working across various contexts.
Promote the empowerment of women using the Bible  NAT11089025
Apply lessons of church history NAT11089026
Youth (choose at least 2 of the following subjects)
Work effectively with young people and their families CHCYTH011
Support ministry to children or young people CHCYTH011
Identify and respond to children and young people at risk CHCPRT001
Recruit, induct and support volunteers CHCVOL003
Recruit and coordinate volunteers CHCVOL003
Uncover the competencies necessary to recruit, orientate, develop and support volunteer workers in an agency, service or program. Workers at this level will be responsible for the ongoing coordination and supervision of volunteers who may be working across various contexts.
Work with diverse people CHCDIV001

This unit equips students to engage respectfully with individuals to ensure cultural competency, by demonstrating respect, inclusion and diversity of all people.

Support youth programs CHCYTH009

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.

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Learning Outcomes

Course Learning Outcomes

  • Ability to communicate a broad knowledge of an Old Testament book and New Testament book
  • Ability to identify and apply a Christian worldview and values
  • Demonstration of general leadership skills in a ministry context
  • Ability to apply knowledge of pastoral ministry to a broad range of contexts, and depth in the area of specialisation
  • Demonstration of general research skills, particularly the ability to gather, understand, evaluate and analyse information

Admission Criteria

Entry Requirements

Essential entry requirements

  • 11088NAT Certificate IV in Ministry or Discipleship, or equivalent, or
  • at least two years of vocational experience in ministry.

Recommended entry requirements

Recommended entry requirements likely to facilitate successful completion of the course by intended participants include:

  • A sound level of ability in written and spoken English. For prospective students from an English-speaking background, successful completion of the Higher School Certificate (HSC) or its equivalent (including articulation from other AQF programs), including demonstration of competency in English is recommended.
  • For prospective students from a non-English speaking background, an IELTS Score of 6.0 (or demonstrate equivalent English proficiency) is recommended.

Full Course RPL

Beyond the entrance requirements, to ensure this delivery mode is right for you at this time we have prepared a Detailed Ministry Curriculum Vitae and Self-Assessment Checklist which you must complete before applying (for the CV, you only need to complete Part A before applying). The Checklist details:

  • the skills and knowledge you will need to be able demonstrate, and
  • the kinds of evidence you will need to be able to source to demonstrate these skills and knowledge.

If, after completing the Part A of the CV and the entire Checklist, you believe you can source all the required evidence by the end of the course (10 weeks), then we encourage you to proceed to submit these documents here to be reviewed by the Program Director. However, if you think you will be unable to source it all at this time, then we recommend you consider speaking to one of our Future Students representatives about the formal study options we have available or revisiting this course when you are in a stronger position to satisfy the requirements.

RPL Upgrade

Beyond the entrance requirements, prospective applicants must understand that no units for this award are delivered by coursework and therefore they should only apply if they believe they can complete the entire course via transfer of credit and RPL. To make this judgement:

  1. Determine which units will receive automatic credit. Credit will be granted for any units listed which have the same unit code and/or title as units you have completed during previous study.
  2. Determine which units remain to be completed via RPL. Look at the course structure and rules and determine which core and elective units must still be completed after credit has been applied for previous study.
  3. Determine whether the relevant evidence demonstrating competency can be sourced and supplied in a timely manner. Read through the Elements and Performance Criteria for each of the units (by clicking on their link) as well the kinds of evidence acceptable:

TYPE A: PERFORMANCE EVIDENCE:  

The primary evidence must be performance evidence drawn from your work/ministry/volunteer/study experience. (You must have at least one piece of performance evidence for each unit applied for.)

The performance evidence could be a recording of you performing the task or part thereof or submission of the completed task itself (such as a written document or the product created by the task) or part thereof.

If you have completed prior studies which you believe meet some of the criteria, you may include evidence of this such as transcripts of your studies etc.

TYPE B: DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE:

Where the performance evidence submitted does not meet all the unit’s requirements, you may submit documentary evidence such as preparation notes, meeting minutes, email exchanges, prayer journals which demonstrate tacitly that you completed the tasks etc.

TYPE C: TESTIMONIAL EVIDENCE:  

Where there are still gaps you may supply testimonial evidence such as references from employers with detailed descriptions of your responsibilities and demonstrated skills, a detailed CV substantiated by employers/managers, reflective essays etc.

Your testimonial evidence will not be enough on its own (you must have supplied at least 50% of your evidence as either Performance or Documentary evidence).

If, after completing these steps, you believe you can source all the required evidence, then we encourage you to apply. The application process includes a section on applying for credit to which you can supply your transcripts from relevant previous study. If you are accepted into the course, you will then need to apply for RPL for each of the remaining units needed to complete the course. We strongly advise you seek academic advice from studentsupport@ac.edu.au or vetassist@ac.edu.au to make this determination. Individual units may be applied for at your own pace.

Additional Requirements: This program requires a government issued Unique Student Identifier (USI) number. See http://www.usi.gov.au/ for details and to secure your USI.

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