Master of Professional Studies in Theology

Graduates in the Master of Professional Studies in Theology might seek promotion in or pursue further a range of careers in such vocational fields as teaching, work in church agencies and ministries, chaplaincy, community building, and pastoral work.

By transferring into the Master of Theological Studies, and completing four additional units, they can graduate with this degree in order to pursue higher studies in theology.

Professional recognition

Professional recognition may differ between dioceses. Teacher applicants are advised to contact the Catholic or State Education Office in the area in which they teach to ascertain the status of the course.

Higher education

To be eligible for admission to the course, an applicant must have completed:

A bachelor degree, or any one of the Graduate Certificate in Catholic Studies, Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies, Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Catholic Culture, Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies, Graduate Certificate in Religious Education, or Postgraduate Certificate in Education or equivalent.

Work and Life

Applicants must have a minimum of one year’s professional experience in the Catholic sector.

If you have previously undertaken tertiary study and/or gained relevant skills, knowledge and/or competencies through pathways other than formal study (e.g. substantial work experience within the past 10 years), you may be eligible to receive some credit towards your course.

Credit granted replaces units you would otherwise study, allowing you to complete your course sooner.

You can apply for credit by submitting an application form, along with the relevant supporting documents.

Visit the ACU website for more information (including how to apply).

The new Master of Professional Studies in Theology (MPST) is ideal for Catholic school teachers, and other professionals looking to develop and enhance their leadership capacity, as well as professionals working in Catholic and other Church agencies.

Within Catholic organisations there is an identified need for professionals to understand and promote the mission, identity, and ethos of the Catholic Church. The MPST has been developed specifically to address this need.

Award Requirements

To qualify for the degree, a student must complete 120 cp from the schedule of subject offerings, as follows:

• 20 cp from Specified subjects including introductory subjects in biblical studies and theology (where these have not previously been completed);
• 70 cp from elective subjects, including no less than 50 cp at 600-level;
• 30 cp from Research subjects.

A student entering the degree having previously completed one of the Graduate Certificate in Catholic Studies, Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies, Graduate Certificate in Religious Education, or Postgraduate Certificate in Education or equivalent must complete 80 cp from the schedule of subject offerings, as follows:

• 50 cp from elective subjects (no fewer than 80 cp will have been undertaken at 600-level);
• 30 cp from Research subjects.

A student entering the degree having previously completed the Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Catholic Culture must complete 80 cp from the schedule of subject offerings, as follows:

• THBS605 Gospels of the Liturgical Year;
• 40 cp from elective subjects (no fewer than 80 cp will have been undertaken at 600-level);
• 30 cp from Research subjects.

A student entering the degree having previously completed the Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies or equivalent must complete 40 cp from the schedule of subject offerings, as follows:

• 10 cp from elective subjects(no fewer than 80 cp will have been undertaken at 600-level);
• 30 cp from Research subjects.