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Diploma in Christian Studies (Christian Leadership) (DipCS(CL))

The Diploma of Christian Studies offers a grounded introduction to Biblical studies, theology, and spiritual formation — equipping you to engage the world with both conviction and compassion. Through the Christian Leadership strand, you’ll build a strong biblical foundation and develop the practical skills to lead and deliver ministry in your own context. Built on bicultural values, and with a pathway into the Bachelor of Theology, this is just the beginning.
  • Qualification Level
  • Total Credits
  • Completion Time
  • Study Location
  • Level 5
  • 120
  • 1 year full-time, or part-time equivalent
  • Auckland, Christchurch, Distance Learning
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Bible & Theology

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This qualification provides you with an introduction to Biblical studies, theological studies, and spiritual formation. It prepares you to live out the Gospel of Christ, engaging thoughtfully and compassionately in the world. Through the Christian Leadership strand you’ll learn to evaluate and deliver ministry programmes within your context, to think deeply about your faith, and to lead a wide range of Christian operations. You will build a biblical and theological foundation to which you can apply Christian leadership skills through real life practical contexts. Students who complete the DipCS may staircase into the second year of the Bachelor of Theology degree.

  • Programme Title
  • Diploma in Christian Studies (Christian Leadership) (DipCS(CL))
  • Programme Abbreviation
  • DipCS(CL)
  • School
  • Bible & Theology
  • Total Credits
  • 120
  • Programme Requirements

  • The DipCS(CL) is made up of four 15-credit courses and two 30-credit internship courses at level 5.
  • Study Commitment
  • Full-time (1 year) or part-time equivalent
  • Study Location
  • Auckland, Christchurch, Distance Learning
  • Delivery
  • Weekly Lectures · Placement · Onsite at approved partner sites. Distance Learning may be available depending on partner.
  • Start Dates
  • February / July
  • Maximum Timeframe
  • Up to 4 years part-time unless extension granted by Academic Head
  • Practicum Hours
  • As a part of the Leadership Internship papers, full-time students will complete 210 hours of supervised ministry practice over each semester (16-20 hours a week). These hours can be worked via a placement at either a church, mission or community ministry.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Ministry roles within churches and community organisations
  • Entry Requirements
  • General Admission Requirements
    English Language Requirements
    Must have an approved placement within a Church or Christian Organisation
    Police Clearance
    Entry Assessment may be required

Please refer here for full entry requirements.

  • Distinctives
  • Real World Experience
    Learn from Experienced Practitioners
    Grow in Wisdom and Knowledge

Additional Information

Students who wish to study part-time and complete the programme over two years should instead enrol in: 476.530 Leadership Internship I – Full Year and 477.530 Leadership Internship II – Full Year.

Graduate Outcomes
  • Evaluate and apply a broad understanding of theology and biblical foundations to defined contexts based on textual interpretation and religious practice.
    Evaluate faith-based programmes and/or practices based on strategies that integrate a personal and community faith journey, and the social, cultural and other contextual considerations of defined groups.
    Apply key Christian leadership principles and Christian leadership dimensions to facilitate team development and accomplish organisational goals in particular areas of responsibility in Christian ministry.