Graduate Diploma of Applied Pastoral Theology

School of Philosophy & Theology

When you work in a faith-based institution, and in particular in a faith-based healthcare provider, learning how to offer pastoral care can be essential training. These programs offer the opportunity to understand the theological foundations of pastoral care. At the same time, they offer training. These programs can be scaled according to need, and in conversation with employers. They will be of particular interest to those who want to develop their knowledge and skills in this important area of study and practice.

• Why study this program?

  These programs are designed to meet your needs as a busy professional seeking to deepen understanding and gain further training. All students study the foundations of Pastoral Theology, as well as Bioethics within the Catholic Tradition. This gives a depth of appreciation about why and how healthcare is a response to the dignity of all persons, and the precious nature of human life. Students in the Graduate Certificate go on to take two more electives, drawing from options in Counselling, Philosophy, and Theology. Those in the Graduate Diploma have four more electives available (6 in all) from the same areas, with the option to take Business courses that take them into the psychology of work and/or the ways that organisations are best structured by excellent leaders.

• Program summary

  Most students will take this course part-time so that they can work at the same time. Offerings cater as much as possible to the timetabling demands of employed postgraduate students, including some online options.

  • Foundations of Pastoral Theology
  • Bioethics: A Catholic Theological Analysis
  • Graduate Certificate: two more courses – electives
  • Graduate Diploma: six more courses – electives

  Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

  More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions page.

  Please note: the availability of these courses is indicative only and may be subject to change.

• Entry requirements

  To be eligible for admission to The University of Notre Dame Australia, all applicants must meet the University’s minimum requirements for admission. The requirements for admission are detailed in the University’s Policy: Admission and Credit.

  To be eligible for admission to the Graduate Diploma of Applied Pastoral Theology applicants must also be currently employed or have past experience in a field of pastoral practice.

• Learning outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Applied Pastoral Theology graduates will be able to:

  1. Communicate advanced knowledge of the theoretical dimensions of Pastoral Theology;
  2. Apply knowledge of bioethical issues, pastoral theology, and counselling to establish therapeutic pastoral relationships in practice;
  3. Analyze critically and evaluate complex theological concepts and ethical frameworks, to apply to pastoral encounters;
  4. Reflect on leadership in ministry by drawing on theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

• Career opportunities

  This program is suited to those who want to deepen their understanding and strengthen their skills in pastoral care, particularly within faith-based healthcare organisations.

• Real-world experience

  Students will use their knowledge and skills directly in their work.

• Fees and costs

  This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

  Domestic Fee-Paying
  A domestic fee-paying place is a place at university where the student is responsible for the full cost the program.

  Eligible domestic fee-paying students may apply for the FEE-HELP loan scheme which assists eligible fee-paying students with the payment of all, or part, of their tuition fees, not including additional study costs such as accommodation or textbooks. Your FEE-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.

  For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.

• More information

  Considering your uni options?
  Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process.

  If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, the Prospective Students Office can help. Book a 1-on-1 advice session with a career advisor or call us on 1800 878 916.

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  Email: future@nd.edu.au
  Address: 23 High St, Fremantle, WA 6160

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  Email: sydney@nd.edu.au
  Address: 128-140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008