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Postgraduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) (PGCertTh(PL))

The Postgraduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) is designed for experienced ministry leaders who are ready to engage their leadership at a postgraduate level. Building on a recognised foundation in theology or ministry, this programme combines advanced theological study with the Pastoral Leadership Pathway — integrating rigorous academic formation with the realities of leading in ministry contexts. This is postgraduate study shaped around who you are and where you lead.
  • Qualification Level
  • Total Credits
  • Completion Time
  • Study Location
  • Level 8
  • 60
  • 1 year part-time
  • Auckland
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Arts & Professional Studies, Bible & Theology

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The Postgraduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership), ((PGCertTh(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 higher, or who hold prior academic degrees in undergraduate theology/ministry and significant leadership within a recognised ministry context. Within each semester there will be required and/or recommended courses that are specific to the Postgraduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) students. Students in this programme will also engage in the Pastoral Leadership Pathway which is a cohort learning community with an annual retreat, monthly online meetings, coaching sessions and access to guest lecturers.

  • Programme Title
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) (PGCertTh(PL))
  • Programme Abbreviation
  • PGCertTh(PL)
  • School
  • Arts & Professional Studies, Bible & Theology
  • Total Credits
  • 60
  • Programme Requirements

  • The PGCertTh(PL) is a one-year part-time programme. It is made up of two level 8 courses of 30 credits each. Within each semester there will be required and/or recommended courses that are specific to the PGCertTh(PL) programme.
  • Study Commitment
  • Part-time (1 year)
  • Study Location
  • Auckland
  • Delivery
  • Block Courses + Online Distance Learning
  • Start Dates
  • February
  • Maximum Timeframe
  • 2 years maximum unless extension granted by Academic Head
  • Career Opportunities
  • Pastoral and Ministry Leadership
    Professional development
    Further study at master’s and doctoral level
  • Entry Requirements
  • Those who have completed the GradCertTh(PL) with a GPA of at least 7.0 (B)
    Those who have successfully completed a recognised undergraduate degree in theology or Christian Ministries who wish to study towards a Postgraduate qualification with special emphasis on areas of pastoral leadership.
    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 Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) is possible for students with a GradCertTh(PL) and a GPA of 7.0 or higher. * Subject to NZQA approval.

Please refer here and here for full entry requirements.

  • Distinctives
  • Flexible Study Options
    Learn from Experienced Practitioners
    Cohort Retreat and online gatherings
    Coaching Sessions
    Access to guest lecturers

* Transport costs to or from gatherings not included

Additional Information

The Postgraduate Certificate in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) must be completed within 2 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.

Graduate Outcomes
  • Evaluate critically a wide spectrum of literature in each of the coursework areas and in the areas of the research undertaken.
    Demonstrate mastery of the issues of debate in each of these areas.
    Give a fair and informed account of representative points of view in each subject area.
    Utilise sound hermeneutical principles in contextualising biblical theology within the subject area studies.
    Demonstrate advanced skills of research, critical analysis and constructive synthesis and application so as to make a significant contribution to knowledge in their area of specialisation.
    Reflect on the professional, ethical, and relational implications of their study for ministry in the modern world.