Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) (PGDipTh(PL))

The Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) is built for ministry leaders who are ready to take their leadership to the next level. Combining advanced theological study with the Pastoral Leadership Pathway, this programme integrates academic rigour with the lived realities of pastoral ministry. Designed for those with proven leadership experience and a strong theological foundation, the PGDipTh (PL) equips you to lead with greater depth, wisdom, and confidence.

Arts & Professional Studies, Bible & Theology

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The Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (Pastoral Leadership), (PGDipTh (PL)), is designed for experienced ministry leaders who have completed the Graduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership), with a GPA of at least 7.0 (B), or who hold prior academic degrees in undergraduate theology/ministry and significant leadership within a recognised ministry context. There will be required and/or recommended courses that are specific to the Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) students and they will also engage in the Pastoral Leadership Pathway.

(Average full-time programme for one year = 120 credits)

Completion of the GradCertTh(PL) with a GPA of at least 7.0 (B), or prior academic degree in undergraduate theology/ministry and significant leadership within a recognised ministry context.
Additional to the Postgraduate entry requirements:
Admission in the programme requires evidence of a minimum of five years’ recognised ministry leadership experience (or similar approved experience); • Applicants must complete a police check; • Applicants must complete a questionnaire and may be required to have an interview. • Applicants must provide a written reference from a senior ministry leader.
Special Entry* Special admission for the Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) is possible for students with a GradCertTh(PL) and a GPA of 7.0 or higher. * Subject to NZQA approval.

Transport costs to or from gatherings not included

Programme Requirements

BACHELOR OF THEOLOGY	BIBLICAL STUDIES (100S)	CHRISTIAN THOUGHT & HISTORY (200-300S)	PASTORAL, MISSIONAL & CONTEXTUAL STUDIES (400-600S)
Minimum credits for degree	90	75	90
	A total minimum of 360 credits A total minimum of 180 credits at level 6 or above A total minimum of 75 credits at level 7
Level 5	115.515 Reading the Bible 120.515 Reading the Old Testment 140.515 Reading the New Testment	201.515 Engaging Theory 308.515 Christian History: Our Story	401.515 Formation 505.515 Christian Leadership and Mission 907.515 Bicultural Relationships: Tikanga Kawabata
Level 6 & 7	111.715 Interpreting the Bible At least 1 OT and 1 NT exegesis paper	202.6/715 Christology 219.6/715 Nākau Maia: Christian Confidence	480.6/715 Faithful Living: Intro to Reflective Practice 590.715 Capstone: Integrative Practice

It’s the breadth of study, of knowledge, the way the staff require you to think. They don’t spoon feed you. They want you to think critically, thoughtfully, prayerfully. You’re given options and required to construct a frame for yourself.”

Kyla Scrimgeour | Theology Graduate

Additional Information

General and other Specialisations

The Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) must be completed within 3 years if taken part time. The opportunity to continue beyond these time limits will be considered on a case by case basis and with approval of the Academic Head.

Semester 1

Semester 2

Biblical Studies Specialisation

On completion of the Bachelor of Theology Laidlaw College graduates will:

Evaluate critically a wide spectrum of literature in each of the coursework areas and in the areas of research undertaken.
Demonstrate mastery of the isssues of debate in each of these areas.
Give a fair and informed account of representative points of view in each subject area.
Write a coherent narrative survey which is internally consistent, interacts critically with central issues, and demonstrates ability to form a reasoned opinion.
Utilise sound hermeneutical principles in contextualising biblical theology within the subject areas studied.
Demonstrate the distinctive contribution of biblical and theological principles to central issues in their subject areas.

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