University
University of OtagoPostgraduate Certificate in Chaplaincy (PGCertChap)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Mar 2027
Campus
Dunedin Campus
Summary
The aim of the Postgraduate Certificate in Chaplaincy (PGCertChap) is to enhance chaplaincy in a range of contemporary settings through engagement with current scholarship into the practice of chaplaincy.
The Certificate is designed as a professional qualification for those who serve as chaplains in a variety of settings and who seek advanced professional education to enhance their work, and for those who want to train to be chaplains.
The admission requirement is a degree or equivalent three-year qualification (not necessarily in Theology) with satisfactory grades. In cases where a person's prior qualifications do not include theological study, he or she may be required to undertake one or more 300-level papers in Theology in order to satisfy the prerequisites for specific 400-level papers in Biblical Studies (BIBS) and/or Christian Thought and History (CHTH).
The coursework consists of three 20-point 400-level taught papers. At least two of these must be core papers in the area of Chaplaincy. The final paper may be the third core paper in the area of Chaplaincy or a paper selected from a list of additional papers offered in the areas of Biblical Studies, Christian Thought and History and Ministry Studies.
Please note: The majority of this programme of study is taught via Distance Learning. This means that an international student who wishes to enrol for this programme will almost certainly be unable to be granted a student visa to study in New Zealand. Such a visa requires the majority of study to be in-person learning, and this programme does not fulfil this requirement. However, international students can enrol for this programme, remain in their home country and undertake the programme via distance learning (mainly Zoom videoconferences). Conditions of a student visa in New Zealand are explained here: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/opsmanual/#44871.htm
Entry criteria
General entry requirementsA university entrance qualification is essential for admission to the University of Otago for all types of programmes. You must also be at least 16 years of age by the first day of classes in your period of study and meet English language requirements.
Domestic studentsYou need to have met the New Zealand University Entrance standard, based on your achievement in secondary school or other prior study. Learn about the different categories for achieving University Entrance and what information you may need to provide with your application.
International studentsCheck recognised entry qualifications by country, and find out what documents you need to provide for a successful application.
English language requirementsAll students must be proficient in the use of English. If your first language is not English, there are several ways you may provide evidence of English proficiency, including through prior secondary or tertiary study, internationally recognised English language tests, and foundation language programmes.
The level of English proficiency required for undergraduate study is equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5.
For details about what is accepted as evidence of English proficiency, please refer to:
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