Ministry

Diploma of Business and Diploma of Ministry

CRICOS: 094094M and 094096J

Do you see yourself working in business and ministry simultaneously? Are you passionate about driving meaningful change in your world? The double diploma in Business and Ministry at Alphacrucis University College is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in both arenas, integrating practical experience with a Christian foundation. It is time to prepare to make a significant impact in your community and beyond.

Course Duration
1.5 years full time, up to 5 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face
Study Locations
Online, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2)
Fees
$1,625 per subject
FEE-HELP
Subjects
12

What is the Diploma of Business and Diploma of Ministry?

The double diploma in Business and Ministry prepares you with practical business principles and transformative ministry training. This program offers essential education in business communications, marketing, team dynamics, and organisational management, alongside in-depth theological and biblical studies. By integrating these disciplines, you will develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares you to lead with confidence and competence in various professional and ministry settings. This course is designed for those who aspire to excel in business management while also nurturing their leadership talents in ministry. Embrace a Christian framework that champions ethical decision-making and servant leadership, empowering you to make a positive impact in both the business and ministry realms.

Who is this for?

Are you looking to build a solid foundation in both business theory and ministry skills to start or advance your career?

Do you want to enhance your leadership and management skills while deepening your biblical and theological knowledge?

Are you interested in integrating ethical and faith-based principles into your professional and ministry practices?

Are you planning to juggle ministry with another vocation?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it is time to enquire about the Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Ministry double degree.

Outcomes

Become a minister in any church within the Australian Christian Churches movement, equipped with theological wisdom and practical skills.*

Be bi-vocational, working in ministry and another field of your choosing.

Work as an Entrepreneur, Consultant or in a variety of business Management roles.

Be ready to take on ministry roles from Youth to Worship Pastor, Teaching to Community Outreach.

I think anyone who's got Alphacrucis as a part of their journey is better off for it.

Mark Varughese, Senior Pastor Kingdomcity

Accreditation

Graduates of AC Business courses with an Accounting specialisation are recognised by the Certified Practicing Accountants of Australia (CPA) and Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand (CA).

*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.

Structure and Subjects

Core
8 Subjects
80 Credit Points
Faith and Purpose ACA001
Discover the foundations of faith and how it relates to one's worldview and purpose. Students will explore the Christian story from Scripture and express ideas of their own faith, examine how faith shapes views on the meaning and purpose of life, the value of humanity and ideas of human flourishing. Expand your perspective in this core subject and understand the significance of faith in all areas of life.
Business Communication COM001

Learn how to communicate within today's fast paced society. Students will explore a range of strategies to overcome obstacles withhin the business landscape and to have ethical business communication practices.

Introduction to Management MAN001

Through this introductory unit, students are given a dynamic entry into the world of business leadership, where every day presents new challenges and opportunities. Explore a blend of contemporary management theories with real-world applications, including the integration of sustainable development practices. Students will also consider the role of ethics and social responsibility from a Christian perspective, and how these principles are applied in organisational settings.

Foundations of Marketing MKT001

Understanding the foundations of marketing is crucial for anyone looking to effectively promote ideas, products, or services. This course offers insight into how organisations identify and understand their markets and tailor creative marketing campaigns successfully. Students will explore the marketing mix's components, develop strategies from legal, ethical, and Christian perspectives, and learn to apply these concepts in various contexts.

Introduction to Pastoral Ministry MIN001
Ever wished to harness your favorite preacher's persuasive power to elevate biblically sound sermons and uplift your congregation? Explore the transformational potential of preaching in this unit, equipped with rhetorical tools to craft impactful messages that resonate deeply with postmodern audiences.
Professional Experience (choose 1 of the following subjects)
Professional Practice EXP001

Ready to bridge theory with real-world experience? Professional Practice is tailored precisely for this purpose. Dive into the academic exploration of professional practice, while gaining hands-on experience through a placement. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, students complete a 100-hour placement (or opt for two 50-hour placements over two semesters) in various formats, enriching their learning journey.

Professional Practice in Business EXP007

Catch a glmipse of the dynamic and multifaceted world of businesses, while gaining practical experience through a hands-on placement. Guided by experienced mentors (excluding family or close friends), students complete a 100-hour placement over a semester, enhancing their learning journey.

Ministry Formation (choose 1 of the following subjects)
Character Formation and Ministry MIN012
Students dive into the rich tapestry of Christian spirituality beyond traditional worship practices. This unit will explore how to deepen community spirituality while respecting boundaries and invites students to discover their broader spiritual heritage.
Biblical Foundations (choose 1 of the following subjects)
Old Testament Foundations BIB009
The Old Testament is the first instance of God’s self-revelation to humanity. It points forward to Jesus and it provides glimpses of the Holy Spirit at work. The themes, theology, wisdom, history, and narrative form the basis for our understanding of God. This subject will equip you to uncover the significance and relevance of the Old Testament to being a disciple of Jesus.
New Testament Foundations BIB010
The New Testament is an exciting document that outlines the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus and the early writings of the church. This subject will introduce the purpose, content, and message of the New Testament books with particular focus on the historical and cultural implications of their setting, and how this broad diversity of literature presents an incredibly unified and coherent message.
Electives
4 Subjects
40 Credit Points
Choose 4 of the following subjects
Ethics in Data Analysis BUS251

This subject will commence in 2025

Excel and Data Analytics BUS220

This subject will commence in 2025

Business Intelligence and Data Visualisation BUS210

This subject will commence in 2025

Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence BUS205
Quantitative Skills BUS105
Introduction to Business Analytics BUS104
Chaplaincy Ministry MIN013
In this unit, students will start their journey into providing pastoral and spiritual care and develop the skills and understanding of how the chaplain is formed and developed considering; ethical and legal considerations; learning effective communication skills; boundaries; and the value and importance of self care and professional supervision.
Character Formation and Ministry MIN012
Students dive into the rich tapestry of Christian spirituality beyond traditional worship practices. This unit will explore how to deepen community spirituality while respecting boundaries and invites students to discover their broader spiritual heritage.
Theories and Practices in Chaplaincy MIN014
This unit continues to build on the previous integration of your skills, knowledge and understanding of chaplaincy practices and theories and how to assess clients needs, ensure ethical and legal consideration and working with diverse people within a chaplaincy and pastoral care role.
Chaplaincy Support in Practice MIN015
This unit builds on the previous learning and knowledge of chaplaincy and pastoral care and provides students with further understanding of responding to clients with issues such as grief and loss; mental health concerns and identify individuals at risk of suicide to ensure immediate and ongoing safety as required.
Introduction to Pastoral Ministry MIN101
In this introductory subject, students will explore a broad variety of topics that form the very basis of pastoral ministry. Primarily, students will consider contemporary pastoral models that connect academic reflection with the real world. Topics discussed will range from defining ministry, calling and ordination to conflict resolution, and being effective in caring for others. Students will also be provided with ample opportunity to engage creatively with these topics to make connections with their own contexts.
Christian Spirituality MIN102
This unit will explore the broader historical roots of spiritual approaches. Students are encouraged to express faith in new ways and deepen the spirituality of your local Christian community. In doing so, students will have a chance to connect with their heritage and participate in a broad range of spiritual exercises practiced by the wider body of Christ throughout history.
Pastoral Administration and Management MIN201
This unit offers the student an introduction to the philosophy of church health and management.
Communicating the Christian Faith MIN202
Dive into the complex realm of evangelism in this thought-provoking unit. Whether you're an extrovert or introvert, this unit invites students to explore the historical, biblical, and theological foundations of gospel communication. Equip yourself with effective communication skills and the empowerment of the Spirit. Discover strategies for engaging the church will complex global issues and bring tangible modes of support to communities.
Preaching MIN203
Preach by bridging the gap between ancient texts and exploring effective ways to communicate biblically sound truths to a modern world. If you want to learn how to debelop life-changing preaching, and bring revelation to postmodern people that struggle with the Christian story, then look no further.
Healing Ministry MIN204
Delve into the complexities of healing in this intriguing unit. Examine different perspectives on healing in the church's history and grapple with profound questions about sickness, suffering, and death through a theological lens. Gain practical skills for supporting others during times of illness, grief, and loss.
Church and Society MIN205
Uncover the mysteries of human behavior and social dynamics in this captivating unit. Explore the intersections of faith and society as we delve into sociology. Discover the trends and megatrends shaping the Christian community and its practices. Engage with questions about why we form social groups and how our faith influences our interactions with society.
Pentecostal Ministry Foundations MIN206
Embark on a journey into the roots of the Pentecostal movement in this comprehensive unit. Delve into Pentecostal history and its biblical foundations, exploring theological distinctives.
Youth Ministry MIN220
This unit explores ministry to youth and young people. Ground in love and empathy, we delve into understanding young people's concerns, needs, and pressures. Empower yourself to minister effectively to the next generation and beyond.
Children’s Ministry MIN221
Explore the key components of children's ministry and how to effectively engage a younger audience with a gospel message.
Women and Men in Christian Ministry MIN231
Critically evaluate sociological and religious influences on gender roles throughout church history. Explore the role of the Bible in current debates over women in ministry. Analyse contexts, particularly in Pentecostal settings, where egalitarian leaders operate. Examine the dynamics of men and women working together in contemporary church ministries. Gain broad knowledge of influential Christian figures who shaped the perception of shared ministry across historical and cultural boundaries. Finally, construct a personal philosophy of egalitarian ministry.
Youth Ministry MIN006
Embark on a comprehensive exploration of the foundation of youth ministry, where biblical, historical, and theological insights intersect with contemporary culture.
Children’s Ministry MIN005
Explore the key components of children's ministry and how to effectively engage a younger audience with a gospel message.
Preaching MIN003
Ever wished to harness your favorite preacher's persuasive power to elevate biblically sound sermons and uplift your congregation? Explore the transformational potential of preaching in this unit, equipped with rhetorical tools to craft impactful messages that resonate deeply with postmodern audiences.
Introduction to Pastoral Ministry MIN001
Ever wished to harness your favorite preacher's persuasive power to elevate biblically sound sermons and uplift your congregation? Explore the transformational potential of preaching in this unit, equipped with rhetorical tools to craft impactful messages that resonate deeply with postmodern audiences.
Developing Women Leaders LEA220
Understanding the role of women in leadership positions is crucial for progressive organisational and societal development. This subject examines the historical and current challenges women face in leadership, with a focus on the church and community contexts. Students will explore legislative frameworks related to gender equity, theological rationales for gender equality, and leadership styles pioneered by women.
Leadership Principles (Arrow) LEA202
Mastering the intricacies of leadership is essential for anyone looking to enhance their influence within an organisation. This subject equips students with the tools to identify and refine their personal leadership philosophy, develop keen self-awareness, and foster essential communication and problem-solving skills through a critical examination of various leadership theories and ethical considerations.
Leadership Principles LEA201
Leadership isn't just about authority; it's about values, communication, and problem-solving. This subject explores diverse leadership theories, cultivating self-awareness and critical evaluation. Students learn to navigate ethical dilemmas, develop team dynamics, and influence organizational culture, preparing for leadership roles across various sectors.
Leadership Principles LEA005
Exploring leadership through contemporary theory and a Christian worldview can profoundly enhance your effectiveness across various settings, including ministry and business. This unit offers a deep understanding of different leadership theories and their applications, enhancing your ability to lead with ethics and adaptability. Students will develop skills in communication, team building, and critical analysis, preparing them for diverse leadership challenges.
Personal Leadership LEA004
Understanding personal leadership through biblical and theological principles equips students with skills in self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and self-discipline. This subject prepares you to articulate a vision aligned with Christian values, improve communication, and enhance personal and professional effectiveness, fostering resilience and adaptability.
Australian Legal Environment and Ethics BUS002

Understanding the intersection of law, ethics and business is vital for anyone leading within today's complex environment. This unit offers a foundational understanding of business law, emphasising the alignment of legal practices with ethical and moral frameworks. Students will gain insight into the principles of Australian law, consumer rights, and governance, equipping them with a foundation of legal and ethical principles.

Quantitative Skills BUS001

Navigating numbers is a crucial skill in business and translates directly into effective management and decision-making. This subject lays the groundwork for success with financial mathematics, tailoring its content to benefit individuals across all skill levels. Ideal as a precursor to more advanced studies in statistics, accounting, and finance, it offers a deep dive into the quantitative skills needed to solve real-world business problems.

Introduction to Business Legal Environments and Ethics BUS003

Understanding the legal and ethical dimensions of business is essential for those aiming to lead with integrity in today's world. While covering important topics from the Principles of Australian Law to ethical and theological perspectives, this unit equips students to navigate multiple aspects of the legal environment thoughtfully and morally.

Business Law BUS101

Delve into the essentials of business law by exploring the legal frameworks surrounding corporations, not-for-profits, and churches. Gain insights into Australia's legal system, including criminal, contract, and workplace law, and understand the regulatory environment's impact on business operations, laying a solid legal foundation for future endeavours.

Economics BUS102

Understanding contemporary economics is essential for navigating today's complex financial landscape. This subject equips students with theoretical tools and practical applications, examining economics' historical, ethical, and theological dimensions. Topics include market dynamics, public policy, and the economics of religion, preparing students for informed analysis and decision-making.

Business Information Systems BUS120

This unit highlights technology's role in enhancing business decision-making, positioning it as a supportive tool rather than the main objective. Students will discover how accounting and business information systems can drive organisational efficiency and governance. The curriculum emphasises ethical data practices, risk management, and strategic information utilisation, preparing learners to tackle modern challenges in information management to maintain a competitive edge.

Financial Decision Making BUS202

In today's fast-paced financial landscape, informed decision-making is key to personal and organisational success. Financial Decision Making equips students with vital skills, focusing on strategic and everyday financial choices. With practical case studies from Australia and beyond, the unit covers the time value of money, risk evaluation, and cash flow analysis. Students will learn how to apply financial planning strategies to navigate complex challenges effectively.

Financial Integrity System BUS203

Through this subject, students are equipped with critical insights into managing financial integrity risks, particularly within not-for-profits and churches. Through a blend of theoretical understanding and practical application, students will design a financial integrity system, crucial for protecting the assets and reputations of organisations within their communities.

Business Analytics BUS204

Recognising the need for informed decisions in today's data-driven marketplace, this course introduces students to essential mathematical and statistical methods needed in business, with a focus on ethical data usage and effective decision-making. You will learn to critically analyse, summarise, and present data, understanding its significant role in not only for-profit environments but also in NGOs and NFP organisations.

Corporations Law BUS250

Grasping Australian corporate law is crucial for effective company management and operation. This subject offers an examination of business structures, the impact of incorporation, and the roles of directors and officers within both for-profit and not-for-profit sectors. Students will gaining critical insight into corporate governance, the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the responsibilities of company directors, and the operations of ASIC.

Business Finance BUS260

Gaining proficiency in practical financial decision-making is crucial for both personal and business success. Through this subject, students will uncover how the global financial system functions, assess risks in capital markets, and learn strategies for financing significant projects and valuing businesses. The course also addresses raising capital and managing debt with a focus on ethical considerations.

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.

What people say

  • Learning Outcomes

    Knowledge

    • General understanding of key issues, recent scholarship and practices within the discipline areas of business and 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 areas of business and ministry.

    Skills

    • Identify, analyse and synthesise theoretical knowledge in the discipline areas of business and ministry.
    • Examine a complex problem or presenting issues using appropriate business and ministry methodologies and theories.
    • Communicate technical and creative skills to express ministry ideas and perspectives.
    • Communicate effectively to transfer knowledge and specialised chaplaincy skills to peers, clients, and general audiences in diverse contexts.
    • 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 business and management in a range of professional contexts to develop appropriate solutions to ministry issues.
    • Work independently, responsibly and with the level expected in a broad range of professional, ministry, and business 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 Business and Diploma of Ministry

    8 Core + 4 Electives
    Find out more

    Bachelor of Ministry

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

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    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).

    Vocational Education and Training (VET)

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

    International Students – Language Requirements

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

    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