NZ Diploma in
Christian Studies

NZQA Level 5 Accredited
Diploma in Christian Studies

A Christian learning experience across Aotearoa

 

The Diploma in Christian Studies equips students with the foundational skills and knowledge for ministry in a wide variety of settings across Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia. Delivered through Te Takawai, an innovative new offering rooted in rooted in mātauranga Mihinare, the programme embodies a transformative faith of aroha, shaped by the worldview of our tūpuna. This worldview seamlessly integrates our iwi-based knowledge with an ancient Christian and Anglican global whakapapa.

Delivering the Diploma in Christian Studies

Online / Hybrid / Wānanga
Akonga will study across a range of modes: online in their own time with Moodle; together online with Zoom classes; and in person as part of immersive wānanga throughout the semester.
Learn more about Te Takawai

About the Diploma

Duration:

2 years (part-time)

Delivery Mode:

Online lectures and regional wānanga

Credits:

120 credits

This programme of 1200 learning hours is delivered over two years across four semesters. Each semester includes 12 teaching weeks, 1 orientation week, and various intensive in-person wānanga at different delivery sites.

Note: St Johns residential students do studies in partnership with Te Takawai ki te Manawa o Te Wheke in Rotorua.

Prospective ākonga of the Diploma in Christian Studies are admitted to the programme by completing an application form.
Residential Applicants

Ākonga must obtain approval and be referred by their Bishop / Officeholder before completing the application form. Enrolment in particular courses is then discussed with the Manutaki Akoranga (Academic Director) and Tikanga Dean.

 

English Competency

To ensure that students are able to succeed in the course, applicants may be asked to provide evidence of their English language competency in both written and spoken English.

The requirement for English language competency for courses or qualifications at NZQF Level 5 will be satisfied by:

Domestic Students

          • NCEA Level 2 English: a minimum of 8 credits
          • OR Sixth Form Certificate of English or its equivalent
          • OR applicants may take an assessment exercise, provided by the College, in English comprehension and writing and achieve the standard of IELTS 5.5

International Students (including the Diocese of Polynesia)

          • An Academic IELTS average score of no less than IELTS 5.5 with no band score less than 5 or equivalent
Employment Pathways

Graduates can:

    • Apply for a variety of roles in church organisations in paid or voluntary capacity
    • Apply to be licensed lay or ordained ministers in the Anglican Church of Aotearoa New
      Zealand and Polynesia – Te Hāhi Mihinare ki Aotearoa ki Niu Tireni, ki Nga Moutere o Te Moana Nui a Kiwa
    • Gain employment in roles requiring cultural and community leadership skills
    • Apply for research and education roles
Education Pathways

The St Johns delivery of NZDipCS (Level 5) is recognised by other NZQA providers in advancing to further study options. This qualification can lead to:

    • New Zealand Diploma in Christian Studies (Level 6)
    • Entry into a Bachelor of Theology programme at an NZQA-approved provider, such as Trinity Methodist Theological College
    • Entry into a University degree programme

What We Offer You

Students will be well supported with dedicated support roles to be with you on your learning journey for both pastoral and academic needs. If accepted into the programme, fees, transport, and accommodation are covered.

What You Need for Study

  • A computer or laptop
  • Reliable internet access
  • Dedication, time, and self-motivation to learn through regional study

 

Delivery Sites

Rotorua and
Te Papaioea Palmerston North
Semester 1 – 30 credits
Fully online Course 1 – 15 credits
In-person hybrid Course 3 – 15 credits
Semester 2 – 30 credits
Fully online Course 2 – 15 credits
In-person hybrid Course 4 – 15 credits
Turanganui-a-Kiwa Gisborne and
Ōtautahi Christchurch
Semester 1 – 30 credits
Fully online Course 1 – 15 credits
In-person hybrid Course 4 – 15 credits
Semester 2 – 30 credits
Fully online Course 2 – 15 credits
In-person hybrid Course 3 – 15 credits

Ngā Akoranga – Course Overview

Each year, a selection of the following courses will be available, enabling any ākonga to complete the Diploma in Christian Studies in a two-year timeframe.
GPO 1 60 credits
BST 510 Te Kawenata Tawhito – Old Testament (15)
BST 511 Te Kawenata Hou – New Testament (15)
THE 510 Ihoatua: Doing Theology (15)
FHC 510 Te Whakapono: The Church’s Story (15)
GPO 2 20 credits
FHC 515 Te Hāhi Mihinare: Being Anglican in Aotearoa New Zealand and Polynesia
MMF 501 Spiritual Journeying: Being Disciples in Aotearoa
GPO 10 40 credits
MMC 505 Pastoral and Community Leadership (15)
FHC 516 Tikanga Karakia: Leading Liturgy (10)
FHC 513 Moana Eco-theology – Care of Creation (15)