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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.
  • Qualification Level
  • Total Credits
  • Completion Time
  • Study Location
  • Level 8
  • 120
  • 1 year full-time, or part-time equivalent
  • Auckland
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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.

  • Programme Title
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (Pastoral Leadership) (PGDipTh(PL))
  • Programme Abbreviation
  • PGDipTh(PL)
  • School
  • Arts & Professional Studies, Bible & Theology
  • Total Credits
  • 120
  • Programme Requirements

  • The PGDipTh(PL) is a one-year full-time (or part-time equivalent) programme. It is made up of four level 8 courses of 30 credits each. Within each semester there will be required and/or recommended courses that are specific to the PGDipTh(PL) programme.
  • Study Commitment
  • Full-time (1 year) or part-time
  • Study Location
  • Auckland
  • Delivery
  • Block Courses + Online Distance Learning
  • Start Dates
  • February
  • Maximum Timeframe
  • 3 years maximum unless extension granted by Academic Head
  • Career Opportunities
  • Pastoral and Ministry Leadership
    Professional development
    Effective service as a church member
    Personal Christian growth
    Workplace Christians
  • Entry Requirements
  • 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.

Please refer here and here for full entry requirements.

  • Distinctives
  • Flexible Study Options
    Learn from Experienced Practitioners
    Customise to Suit your Interests
    Grow in Wisdom & Knowledge

* Transport costs to or from gatherings not included

Additional Information

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.

Graduate Outcomes
  • 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.