Graduate Diploma of Applied Theology

LEVEL 7   |   120 CREDITS   |   1 YEAR FULL-TIME (part-time available)

STUDY OPTIONS: Onsite, Online, Distance

SEMESTER INTAKE: February & July

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Programme Outline

Have you already proven yourself at the tertiary level before?  Extend your vocational qualification and deepen your faith and biblical understanding with a theological qualification. Learn, grow, be transformed.

The Graduate Diploma of Applied Theology is ideal for those who have a previous undergraduate degree qualification, enjoy the challenge of study, and want to deepen their Christian faith and understanding with an initial theological qualification. You’ll be able to choose from a range of ministry, bible, or theology courses designed to equip you to focus and reflect on biblically informed practices as well as exploring a range of theological topics. It is also an excellent stepping stone to postgraduate theological study.

 

“I love teaching at Carey, primarily because of the community we foster here. I love stepping into the classroom and being both a student and a teacher in that context. And I love the Graduate Diploma. You really take a deep dive into topics that are critical to the Christian life and to ministry and to any type of aspect that you’re bringing in from your other expertise. The vocation you have is to continue in the discipleship journey.”

Christa McKirland, Lecturer – Systematic Theology

 

This programme is equivalent to one year full-time study of 120 Credits at level 7 from the following options. Select the course name to view a course description.

Course Name
Credits

and one of either of the following:


and
90 credits of elective courses with a minimum of 75 credits at Level 7 or above.

Bridging Graduate Diploma
A student with a non-theological undergraduate degree who is seeking admission to postgraduate theological study may be required to enrol in the Graduate Diploma programme as a bridge to postgraduate study. In this case the student will be prescribed an individual programme of study in relevant subject areas and levels to ensure a firm foundation in biblical and theological studies.

Not all courses are offered every year. Check the timetable to see what courses are currently available.

View Timetable

Admission to the Graduate Diploma of Applied Theology is open to full-time and part-time New Zealand students and full-time International students.

General Admission
All applicants must have completed a recognised undergraduate degree or be able to demonstrate equivalent practical, professional, or educational experience at an appropriate level.

For special admission and International student admission requirements (including English language) view the Academic Regulations and Calendar.

Transfer from other Programmes
Students who have completed courses at other institutions may be eligible for cross-credits or recognition of current competency.

Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs.  In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $50 per 15 credit course. Students enrolling in MS510 Te Ao Māori are required to also pay $70 + koha for a compulsory noho marae.

Domestic Student
$858.00 per 15-credit course
$2,885.00 per 15-credit course
Audit (interest only, not for creit)
$320.00 per 15-credit course

View Fee Information Scholarships at Carey

The Graduate Diploma of Applied Theology will equip you to:

  • Reflect on and manage your own personal faith journey
  • Be able to communicate a sound understanding of the Bible and core theological principles
  • Be able to align knowledge of Biblical principles with practice in a range of life contexts
  • Communicate effectively across different cultural boundaries.
Undergraduate Prospectus Cover 2025

Key Information for Students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.

 

Photo of Aaron Doody for quote

“A key reason for coming to Carey was to invest in and deepen my understanding of faith and to enrich my practice of faith in the future. The Carey community has been invaluable in helping me challenge and shape my faith assumptions. I think that everyone is called by God, to love God and love others. The direction we each take to express this calling, and the way God leads each of us differs. It has been a worthwhile direction for me and one that I trust God will use to shape my future directions in work and life.”

– Aaron Doody, Graduate, Graduate Diploma of Applied Theology

Ready to make a difference?

At Carey we believe that the God of mission is at work in the world by the Spirit to renew people and places in Christ. Our calling is to equip Christian leaders with the convictions, competencies, and capacity to participate in that mission, bringing gospel renewal in churches and communities across Aotearoa and around the world.