Graduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) (GradCertTh(PL))

The Graduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) recognises what you’ve already built. Designed for experienced ministry leaders without prior academic qualifications, this programme validates your leadership and takes it deeper — combining theological study with the Pastoral Leadership Pathway for a formation experience that’s both rigorous and practical. Completion also opens doors to further postgraduate study, including the PGCertTh, PGDipTh, and MTh in Pastoral Leadership. Your ministry matters. Keep growing.

Bible & Theology

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This programme is designed for experienced ministry leaders who may not hold prior academic degrees but have demonstrated significant leadership within a recognised ministry context. Students in this programme will take four courses of academic study and also engage in the Pastoral Leadership Pathway which provides contextual learning via and annual retreat, monthly online meetings, coaching sessions and access to special guest events. Completion of the GradCertTh(PL) together with engagement in the Pastoral Leadership Pathway may provide special entry into the PGCertTh(PL), PGDipTh(PL), and MTh(PL).

The Graduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) is a part-time programme that can be completed in one or two years. It is made up of four prescribed courses of 15 credits each. Of these four courses, one can be taken at level 6 and the remaining three at level 7. These may be taken in any order, though it is recommended that you discuss course selection with Laidlaw staff. For students in the GradCertTh(PL) programme, course pre-requisite and co-requisite regulations may be waived.

Those who have not completed a prior academic degree in any area, but who have demonstrated significant leadership within a recognised ministry context.
Those who have completed a degree in a non-theological area but who wish to study towards a theological qualification with special emphasis on areas of pastoral leadership.
Those who have completed a degree in a non-theological area but who wish to bridge into postgraduate programmes in Pastoral Leadership, such as the PGCertTh(PL), PGDipTh(PL), or MTh(PL).
In addition to the above: 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
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Applicants must provide a written reference from a senior ministry leader.

Please refer here for full entry requirements.