Diploma in Theology

The Diploma in Theology is a two-year program that builds on the foundations of Christian faith and takes you deeper into Scripture, doctrine, and ministry practice. It is designed for those who are actively serving in church ministry or preparing to do so, and who desire formal theological training without the full time commitment of a bachelor's degree.

Across four semesters, you will study both the Old and New Testaments in greater depth, explore the great doctrines of the Church, learn from the history of God's people, and develop practical skills in preaching, pastoral care, and church leadership. Field ministry placements connect classroom learning with hands-on experience in local churches and communities.

This diploma also serves as a direct pathway into our Bachelor of Theology program. All 16 diploma courses are credited toward the degree, so you can continue your formation seamlessly.

Program Objectives

By the end of this program, you will be able to:

• Interpret Scripture faithfully using sound hermeneutical principles
• Articulate and defend the core doctrines of the Christian faith
• Trace the major movements and figures of church history
• Prepare and deliver biblical sermons and teachings
• Provide basic pastoral care and counseling within a church setting
• Cultivate a mature personal life of prayer, character, and spiritual discipline

Course Outline

The program consists of 16 courses across four semesters:

Semester 1

• DIP 101: Old Testament Survey
• DIP 102: New Testament Survey
• DIP 103: Introduction to Christian Doctrine
• DIP 104: Principles of Biblical Interpretation

Semester 2

• DIP 105: Early and Medieval Church History
• DIP 106: Spiritual Formation and Prayer
• DIP 107: Introduction to Preaching
• DIP 108: The Gospels and the Life of Christ

Semester 3

• DIP 201: Reformation and Modern Church History
• DIP 202: Systematic Theology I: God, Creation, and Humanity
• DIP 203: Pastoral Care and Counseling
• DIP 204: The Acts of the Apostles and the Early Church

Semester 4

• DIP 205: Systematic Theology II: Christ, Salvation, and the Church
• DIP 206: Christian Ethics and Contemporary Issues
• DIP 207: Church Leadership and Administration
• DIP 208: Field Ministry Placement and Reflection

Field Ministry

A distinctive feature of the Diploma program is the field ministry component. In your final semester, you will be placed in a local church or ministry setting where you will serve under the supervision of an experienced pastor. This placement allows you to apply your learning in a real context, develop practical ministry skills, and receive mentorship and feedback.

Who Is This Program For?

• Pastors and evangelists seeking formal theological training
• Church planters preparing for ministry in new communities
• Lay leaders ready to move into full-time ministry roles
• Graduates of the Certificate program continuing their formation

Further Study

Upon successful completion of the Diploma, you may apply for admission to the Bachelor of Theology program. All 16 diploma courses are credited toward the degree, meaning you enter the B.Th. program with advanced standing and can complete it in an additional two years.