Programme Regulations for the New Zealand Diploma in Chrisitan Studies

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The following specific programme regulations apply to the New Zealand Diploma in Christian Studies.
PROGRAMME SUMMARY
PROGRAMME SUMMARY
National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level
5
(NQF) Credits
60
Delivery
On-site, distance, block course
Mode
Full-time, part-time
Duration
One semester full-time equivalence
Regular Intake
February, July

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

The New Zealand Diploma in Christian Studies, (Theological Studies) requires the successful completion of 120 credits (7 or 8 courses depending on whether CTP or RFE practical field education is chosen). It draws from a range of compulsory and optional field education, biblical, theology and ministry courses. The programme consists of either 15 or 30 credits in practical contextual field education—meaning the student can undertake practical work experience in their chosen ministry.   

PROGRAMME PURPOSE

The aim of this programme is to provide graduates with a broad understanding of the principles of theology, biblical foundations, evaluative thinking, and applied leadership skills, enhancing their employment opportunities and/or the ability to work in a voluntary capacity, including not-for-profit. This programme will appeal to Christians who are ready for positions of ministry influence and leadership in a variety of roles that require foundational biblical and theological understanding. This programme is also targeted at current practitioners who want to upskill in a particular area of management and/or leadership. Graduates will be able to evaluate and deliver ministry programmes within their specialist areas, as well as lead and manage a wide range of Christian operations for churches and their agencies. Graduates will experience the application of the principles of theology, biblical foundations and ministry in a community of practice.

GRADUATE PROFILE

On successful completion of this programme graduates will be able to:

GP01
Evaluate and apply a broad understanding of theology and biblical foundations to defined contexts based on textual interpretation and religious practice.
GP02
Evaluate faith-based programmes and/or practices based on strategies that integrate personal and community faith journeys, and the social, cultural and other contextual considerations of defined groups.
GP03
Integrate core tools of theology, biblical texts and practice, and apply these to the broader community to provide leadership and direction that is culturally and ethically appropriate.

ADMISSION AND ENTRY

General Admission

NCEA Level 3

  • 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three approved subjects
  • Literacy - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of:
    5 credits in reading
    5 credits in writing.
  • Numeracy - 10 credits at Level 1 or above, made up of:
    achievement standards – specified achievement standards available through a range of subjects, or
    unit standards – package of 3 Numeracy unit standards (26623, 26626, 26627 – all 3 required)

NCEA Equivalence can include:

  • University Entrance, A or B Bursary;
  • Overseas equivalent qualifications, including IB and CIE, or HSC (Australia);
  • Other NZQA level 4 certificate in a different discipline;
  • Evidence of level of academic achievement or a portfolio of work for homeschooled students*;
  • Reference/support/documentation from employer*
*The applicant may need to sit assessment for entry.

Special Admission

New Zealand citizens or permanent residents who do not meet the General Admission requirements but who will have reached the age of 20 by the first day of the semester for which admission is sought and who are able to provide evidence of aptitude or appropriate work or other experience may be granted Special Admission. In exceptional cases, an applicant who does not meet the General Admission requirements and has not reached the age of 20 by the first day of the semester for which admission is sought may apply for special admission.

In assessing whether to grant special admission in exceptional cases, the primary focus will be on the applicant’s level of preparedness for tertiary study.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Candidates who have English as a second language are required to have a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 (Academic), or its equivalent in accordance to NZQA Rules 22 Table 1 and/or other NZQA accepted evidence of English language proficiency.

LIMITAIONS ON DURATION OF STUDY

There is a limitation on the duration of time in which a student can complete their qualification. The total time from admission to the programme until the completion of the qualification should not normally exceed three years, unless special permission is granted by the Academic Director or delegate.

However, please note that students are able to defer their study should the need arise; see Enrolment and Programme Regulations for more information.

TRANSFER FROM OTHER PROGRAMMES

Students who have completed courses at other institutions may be eligible for cross-credits or recognition of current competency as specified in the Credit Regulations.

Carey may use external New Zealand Qualification Consistency experts to assist in the decisions regarding transition arrangements.

PROGRAMME REQUIREMENTS

Every candidate for the Diploma shall to the satisfaction of the Academic Board or delegate, follow a programme of study for a period of normally not less than an academic year.

Each candidate’s programme will comprise all modules as listed in the Schedule of Modules of these regulations, totalling a minimum of 120 credits.

SCEDULE OF MODULES

Students must complete:

Course Code and Name
Level
Credits
MB521 - Thinking Theologically
5
15
MM581 - Mission of God
5
15
MS510 - Te Ao Māori
5
15

Students must complete one of the following:

Course Code and Name
Level
Credits
MB531 - Introduction to the Old Testament
5
15
MB532 - Introduction to the New Testament
5
15

Students must also complete one of the following:

Course Code and Name
Level
Credits
MF501 - Reflective Field Education
5
15
MF505 - Contextual Theological Praxis
5
30

Students select the remainder from the following elective schedule:

Course Code and Name
Level
Credits
MM561 - Introduction to Pastoral Care
5
15
MM565 - Faith Formation in Children
5
15
MM564 - Worship: Then and Now
5
15
MM572 - Foundations of Youth Ministry
5
15
MM526 – Insights to Church History
5
15

Please note, it is possible that a student may be able to select other courses from the Carey catalogue if that course would allow the student to meet the remainder of the Graduate profile.