Master of Divinity (MDiv)

CRICOS Code 042692G

The MDiv is a first degree in theology for graduates in other disciplines. Offering a high level of theological study, it provides an appropriate foundation for further study in theology. 

For ordination candidates, it offers an alternative to the BTheol degree. It is sufficiently different to be distinctive, but allows for common teaching in many units.

It may be pursued by full-time or part-time study, normally of not less than 3 and not more than 9 years. 

It offers an innovative and distinctive approach to the theological curriculum, which aims at an integrative, holistic approach to theological study. 

The study of at least one biblical language (either Greek or Hebrew) is required for all students.

The degree may be awarded at pass or honours levels. At both, a total of 270 points is required. The course comprises three types of study:

The Honours degree requires

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a graduate entry degree. That is, it is designed for people who have a degree in a discipline other than theology who now wish to begin studying theology.

As a Masters degree, the studies will be more challenging and the assessment tasks more extensive than undergraduate studies, though many of the introductory units will cover similar areas.

Degree Structure

Foundational Studies provide a basic introduction to the disciplines and fields of theological study and lay the foundations for further work.

In this area, 105 points (7 units) are required:

Integrative Studies build on this foundation by taking up questions of methodology in such a way as to encourage a holistic view of theological disciplines.
In this area, 60 points are required (4 units):

60 points (4 units) are required:

Units are to be selected across the following possible foci:

Approved programs of Supervised Field Education or Clinical Pastoral Education.

In the case of CPE, 15 points will be credited to Integrative Studies and 15 points to Specialised Studies.

Specialised Studies provide students with an opportunity to engage in detailed study of specialised theological disciplines.

In this area, 105 points are required (7 units). All students are required to specialise in one of the three fields listed below, by completing at least 60 points from that field.

Fields of Specialisation:

- Biblical Studies

- Christian Thought and History

- Christian Life and Ministry

Students may complete a minor thesis of 12,000 words (30 points) in this section of the degree. The thesis may be specialised, or of an integrative nature. The option of the minor thesis is recommended to those wishing to undertake higher level research.

Enquiries and application to enrol in the Online programme should be directed to the Online

co-ordinator, David O’Brien email: uftonline@trinity.unimelb.edu.au. Telephone: 9348 7478.

Note: Enrolment in the online programme is normally available only to Graduate Students.

BTheol students nearing completion of their degree may enrol fr up to four online Div Specialist or Integrative units, Permission must be sought from the UFT Dean.

Outlines for all online units are to be found at the UFT website www.uft.unimelb.edu.au

Courses of Study “UFT Online” Theology Online website: https://www.trinitycollege.vic.edu.au/moodle/