New Zealand Certificate in Christian Studies
Interested in study but just want to dip your toe in and try four courses first?
The New Zealand Certificate in Christian Studies provides a compact programme for learners who are wanting an initial theological qualification or those working in a church or ministry setting who wish to augment their practice with introductory theological study.
It is ideally suited to those who may be working within church or ministry settings and who also want to study part-time. It draws from a range of field education, biblical, theology and ministry courses to focus on Christian theology, practical Christianity, biblically informed practices and beginning theological reflection. Likewise, it is a good starting point for those without previous theological study who may want to continue on to further studies.
You can then staircase on to a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree.
Programme Outline
The programme of study is equivalent to one semester (full-time) totalling 60 credits comprising of:
MF501 – Reflective Field Education (15 credits)
OR
MF505 – Contextual Theological Praxis (30 credits)
AND at least one of the following:
- MM561 – Introduction to Pastoral Care (15 credits)
- MM564 – Worship: Then and Now (15 credits)
- MM572 – Foundations of Youth Ministry (15 credits)
- MB531 – Mission of God (15 credits)
AND any of the following courses to make up the remaining credits (if any):
- MB521 – Thinking Theologically (15 credits)
- MB526 – Insights into Church History (15 credits)
- MB532 – Introduction to the New Testament (15 credits)
- MB531 – Introduction to the Old Testament (15 credits)
- MS510 – Te Ao Māori (15 credits)
For more information on each course view the Academic Course Descriptions 2019.
For a full list of courses view our Academic Schedule of Courses 2019.
Programme Objectives
Upon completion graduates will be able to demonstrate the following attributes:
- Synthesise broad theological and biblical knowledge and analyse the functions of church ministry to provide leadership and direction of defined groups.
- Identify the biblical and theological principles that apply to one’s own faith journey; and recommend strategies that use this understanding to enhance personal and community spiritual development.
- Develop and evaluate a pastoral care programme for specific groups, based on the understanding of Christian ministry principles and functions to achieve community goals.
Entry Requirements
Admission to the New Zealand Certificate in Christian Studies is open to full-time and part-time New Zealand students and full-time International students.
General Admission
In order to gain admission all applicants must have achieved one of the following:
- National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA), with a minimum of 42 credits at Level 3 or higher on the National Qualifications Framework, and
- A minimum of 8 credits in English at Level 2 or higher, 4 credits of which must be in reading and with the remaining 4 in writing.
- A grade of C or higher in each of the three subjects in New Zealand University Entrance or Bursaries and Scholarships (NZUEBS) examinations.
For full information (including Special Admission) please see the Academic Regulations and Calendar 2019
International student admission requirements, including English language requirements, can be found here.
Transfer to other Carey Programmes
Any courses completed for credit while enrolled in the New Zealand Certificate of Christian Studies may subsequently be transferred to another Carey NZQA accredited qualification.
What is the cost?
See our full Fees Schedule for costs
When are courses taught?
View our 2019 Timetable
Note: The Schedule of courses in the Academic Regulations and Calendar indicates the planned cycle of what courses will be offered in which years.
However, please note that due to timetabling constraints and lecturer availability some courses may not be offered as planned.
Course selection and advice is provided via the Academic Registrar to ensure that your programme of study meets the requirements of the qualification you are enrolled in.
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Alumni Stories
Rebecca McLeay
Studying applied theology at Carey has given me a greater understanding of God’s mission in the world. It has equipped me with the tools to play my part in that mission—using graphic design to serve God.