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.

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

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.

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

Semester 1

Semester 2

Biblical Studies Specialisation

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

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