Academic Requirements
ACADEMIC STUDY
Theological education for ordained ministry in the ACSQ is offered at St Francis Theological College, with awards conferred by the University of Divinity. Individuals exploring a call to ministry are encouraged to enrol in one or more subjects at St Francis College while in Discernment to establish that they have the capacity and desire to complete the required award.
FOUNDATIONAL STUDIES
There is a common core of knowledge about the Bible, Christian beliefs, Church history and Mission and Ministry studies, which is needed by lay ministers, deacons and priests. All Anglicans exercising ministry are encouraged to undertake Theological study so that they are well equipped to guide others in the faith.
It is possible to graduate after completing Foundational Studies with either a Diploma in Theology or a Graduate Diploma in Divinity. Both awards are conferred by the University of Divinity and details of the exact course of study can be obtained from St Francis College.
ADVANCED STUDIES (DIACONAL FORMATION PROGRAM)
Candidates for ordination as a permanent deacon complete a further eight subjects beyond the Foundational Studies and may graduate with an Advanced Diploma in Theology and Ministry.
A person selected for the permanent diaconate may not transfer to the Priestly Formation Program without the express permission of the Archbishop, regardless of their academic qualification. This is usually done on the basis of another Vocational Discernment Conference.
ADVANCED STUDIES (PRIESTLY FORMATION PROGRAM)
Ordinands in the Priestly Formation Program (PFP) will complete either the Bachelor of Theology or a Master of Theological Studies. The subjects studied in these awards need to be configured in such a way as to satisfy the Archbishop’s requirements as well as meeting the University’s degree rules. It should be noted that the Archbishop’s academic requirements cannot be satisfied through completion of the Master of Theological Studies alone. Those who have previous Academic Theology or extensive ministry experience may be able to satisfy the requirements without the need to undertake further study. You are advised to consult with the Principal and the Academic Dean of St Francis College to discuss your academic studies, including possible transfer credit for prior learning. Those undertaking the Bachelor of Theology will be able to satisfy all requirements with the Bachelor Degree.
No distinction is made in the formation program, including the academic requirements, between candidates who expect to receive a stipend to support them in their future ministry and those candidates who expect to minister without receiving a stipend.
Every ordinand is encouraged to complete their academic studies in the shortest possible time. The minimum recommended enrolment is 2 subjects per semester, so that the BTh can be completed within 6 years. A full-time student would normally take 4 subjects each semester and complete the degree in 3 years.