Bishopdale Theological College provides face-to-face tutorials for students of the Laidlaw College Degree and
Diploma qualifications
Diploma of Biblical Studies
The Diploma of Biblical Studies is a programme of
120 credits, equivalent to one year of full time study.
The programme provides an introduction to biblical
studies, theological studies and spiritual formation.
It allows students to explore various courses geared
towards preparing them to live out the gospel and
to engage thoughtfully and compassionately in the
world.
Degree level courses
The Bachelor of Theology and Bachelor of Ministries
degrees are both equivalent to three years of full
time study. The Bachelor of Ministries offers more
room to take internship papers, while those who may
wish to pursue further studies should complete the
Bachelor of Theology. Students who have completed
a Diploma of Biblical Studies may staircase from this
into one of the degree programmes. The regulations
relating to this are in the CDL Prospectus. The
varying requirements of each degree can be found in
the CDL Prospectus.
Graduate Diploma in Theology
The Graduate Diploma in Theology is a diploma of
120 credits, equivalent to one year of full time study.
It is designed for those who have already attained
an undergraduate degree either in theology or any
other discipline. It is recommended for graduates
who wish to relate their faith to their vocation
and may provide the opportunity to go on to do
advanced theological studies. The Graduate Diploma
in Theology is designed to be a flexible full-time
or part-time qualification. It is normally completed
within six years of commencement. The programme
is made up of courses selected from those offered
within the undergraduate programmes.
Please
note that some compulsory course requirements
may be waived for those students with an existing
qualification in theology. Course regulations for
the Graduate Diploma can be found in the CDL
Prospectus.
Graduate Diploma in Theology (Ministry)
This is a special version of the Graduate Diploma
available to students with an existing theological
qualification. Within this framework, a selection of
courses is available which specifically address areas
of Anglican theology and ministry. Some compulsory
courses of the Graduate Diploma in Theology are
waived with this version, although students are still
expected to choose a balanced programme.
Important note: All courses being offered by BTC in
2013 are subject to adequate enrolments. All courses
are worth 15 credits.
‘Interest Only’ Non-Formal study at BTC
Studying for ‘interest only’ allows students to
participate in tutorials while benefiting from the
course content. The completing of assessments and
assignments is optional. Interest-only students are
expected to be fully prepared for, and as committed
to class attendance, as all other students.
Interest only students will receive a copy of the
Learning Guide and other materials for the relevant
course.
Cost: $250 per course, discounted to $175
for ministers, spouses and ministry team workers.
Numbers of non-formal students may be limited
to preserve class balance for educational quality.
Enrolments will be accepted provisionally and
confirmed on adequate formal enrolments for the
course.
For course information and registration details,
please contact the Registrar.
Classes & tutorials held on campus are important to
Bishopdale Theological College’s ministry. They are
an opportunity to engage with issues and questions
raised by the material being studied. Through
discussion facilitated by skilled tutors, and
additional explanations provided by them, students
will be encouraged to increase their theological
knowledge and understanding.
Courses which Bishopdale does not offer may still be taken through the Centre for Distance Learning, which provides online tutoring.
Information for students
considering ordination
Anglican ordination candidates
Bishopdale Theological College is open to students
from all denominations and backgrounds. It has,
however, a specific vision within its overall purpose
to provide a place of theological learning and
ministry formation for those considering a call to
ordained ministry within the Anglican Church.
If you hope to apply for Anglican ordination, you are
strongly encouraged to complete a full Bachelors
degree.
Students already accepted for ordination training by
their Anglican Bishop will be assisted to comply with
the requirements laid down by the accepting Bishop.
College staff will liaise with each Bishop to ascertain
these requirements and will make regular reports to
that Bishop.
Please note that acceptance for a programme of study or
at the College does not imply acceptance for ordination.
Ordination students from other
denominations
Bishopdale Theological College welcomes you and
will seek to assist you in fulfilling the requirements
for training and learning as prescribed by your
denomination. As with all students, you will be
helped to achieve your goal to gain a theological
education and equip yourself to serve God’s people.
Bible College courses attract all forms
of student funding supplied by the New Zealand Government.

Bishopdale Theological College is not a residential
college but it will seek to foster community life among
students and staff. Opportunities for shared meals,
and for community worship will be a core part of the
college's programme.
BTC Code of Practice |