Discover the foundations of faith and how it relates to one's worldview and purpose. Students will explore the Christian story from Scripture and express ideas of their own faith, examine how faith shapes views on the meaning and purpose of life, the value of humanity and ideas of human flourishing. Expand your perspective in this core subject and understand the significance of faith in all areas of life.
The aim of this subject is to familiarise students with Israel's Scriptures as a coherent narrative that is of crucial importance to Christians. While this subject includes a discussion of every book in Israel's Scriptures, it goes beyond this to look at how the character of God is communicated throughout.
This unit seeks to introduce the content of the books of the New Testament while providing a basis for further reading and study. The primary focus will be on the message of each book within its historical-cultural setting with some attention being given to its contribution to the theology of the New Testament as a whole.
Be equipped as a future pastor or church leader to inspire vision and make an impact in Australian churches with a world mission focus.
Embark on a dynamic 100-hour placement journey throughout the semester, offering a diverse array of formats tailored to your interests. Whether you're passionate about pastoral ministry, envisioning a leadership role at organisations like World Vision, or eager to engage in cross-cultural ministry abroad, there's an opportunity suited just for you!
Leadership isn't just about authority; it's about values, communication, and problem-solving. This subject explores diverse leadership theories, cultivating self-awareness and critical evaluation. Students learn to navigate ethical dilemmas, develop team dynamics, and influence organizational culture, preparing for leadership roles across various sectors.
In this introductory subject, students will explore a broad variety of topics that form the very basis of pastoral ministry. Primarily, students will consider contemporary pastoral models that connect academic reflection with the real world. Topics discussed will range from defining ministry, calling and ordination to conflict resolution, and being effective in caring for others. Students will also be provided with ample opportunity to engage creatively with these topics to make connections with their own contexts.
This unit will explore the broader historical roots of spiritual approaches. Students are encouraged to express faith in new ways and deepen the spirituality of your local Christian community. In doing so, students will have a chance to connect with their heritage and participate in a broad range of spiritual exercises practiced by the wider body of Christ throughout history.
This unit offers the student an introduction to the philosophy of church health and management.
Embark on a captivating journey through Church History Foundations, exploring the begginings of the global church, from its inception to this present day. Dive into significant events and influential stakeholders, examining the impact of Christianity across diverse cultural landscapes. Gain insights into the historical and contextual influences of the Church within local communities.
This foundational course aims to enhance your grasp of Christian doctrines and their relevance to personal spirituality, church life, and mission. This subject provides a thorough introduction to key theological concepts, including the Trinity, creation, and redemption. You will learn to interpret traditional Christian thought, evaluate various perspectives, and apply theological methods to deepen your understanding of how these beliefs shape individual and communal faith practices.
In an era of moral relativism, Christians should stand out as moral beacons. In fact, however, the Church is often seen not as a community of love but rather, as a legalistic and hypocritical institution. This unit helps students to think through how they go about making ethical decisions. It argues against legalism and sets up a theological method of approaching ethics that prioritises grace and the power of the Spirit.
This special elective is designed to coincide with the Cartledge Lecture
Learning to interpret the Bible effectively enhances your ability to analyse and apply scripture in contemporary settings. This subject explores the evolution of interpretative methods, the crucial role of the reader, and the importance of historical and cultural contexts. You will learn to navigate various biblical genres and apply guiding principles to make relevant theological conclusions, equipping you for informed and thoughtful engagement with biblical texts.
Understanding the Old Testament offers valuable insights into the historical and cultural contexts that shaped the ancient world, helping you to gain more wisdom and understanding when engaging with these texts. In this subject, students examine the Old Testament's historical, geographical, and social contexts, analyse its passages and themes, and learn how everyday life and cultural settings in biblical times inform contemporary interpretations.
This subject explores various perspectives on the Spirit of God in the Old Testament. Primary biblical materials and secondary literature from a range of perspectives will be analysed. Students will also examine the socio-historical background relevant to the functions of the Spirit in the Old Testament and will apply passages on the Spirit to modern Pentecostalism.
The letters of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon were written from prison and yet deal with some of the most liberating concepts imaginable. Time spent with these letters will be richly rewarded and equip us for life in multiple dimensions; spiritual, relational, personal and corporate. We will examine how these four letters from captivity have the power to free readers from unconscious imprisoning ideas.
Why would Paul, a Hebrew speaking Jew, writing to Latin speaking Romans, use Greek? Why was the liberating message of the crucified messiah considered "foolish?" This unit examines the culture, customs, and values of the first century. It shows how radical the Christian minority group was in the face of the Roman Empire and invites you to assess your own convictions and values as a 21st century Christian.
The Pastoral Epistles show us that intrigue and controversy are not new to the church. The letters of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus and are located towards the end of Paul’s life and ministry career. These letters give insight into the need for stabilisation and structure within the emerging Christian communities in Ephesus and Crete.
This second professional experience will focus on understanding of the early childhood profession through developing collaboration and networking skills within a host organisation with a 3 to 5 years focus of a minimum 20 days. Students will observe and engage in daily practices and routines with the support of a supervising teacher including interacting with documenting observations of, and planning and implementing learning experiences for preschoolers. This professional experience provides opportunities for students to demonstrate and implement theoretical knowledge gained in other subjects within a workplace environment. Students will build on the development of personal and professional attributes, and effective interactions with children aged 3 to 5 years. Students will critically reflect on their role in documenting and assessing children’s learning and sharing understandings of children whilst employing a range of tools to ensure a collaborative approach to foster a child-centred approach and partnerships with families and community.
The words we sing are extraordinarily powerful. Many authors have had things to say about the lyrics of songs sung in church but the arguments are particularly partisan and heated in our present day. Contemporary congregational songs, with their popular musical influences are a hot topic. Are their lyrics inferior to traditional hymns? How should we approach their analysis and assessment? What would Jesus sing?
As compelling, engaging and consuming as our local church world is... we don't live in a bubble! All humans worship. What does that worship look like for other religions? What impact does that have on the way we worship? This unit explores these questions and many more, from our Judaeo-Christian heritage to the comparative worship of Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and other world religions.
Through this subject, students will delve into the complex relationship between the Christian church and the creative arts across centuries. This subject examines how the arts have been both championed and constrained by the church. Students will analyse historical music and arts from biblical times to the modern era, gaining insights into their influence on faith and church practices.
Dive into the complex realm of evangelism in this thought-provoking unit. Whether you're an extrovert or introvert, this unit invites students to explore the historical, biblical, and theological foundations of gospel communication. Equip yourself with effective communication skills and the empowerment of the Spirit. Discover strategies for engaging the church will complex global issues and bring tangible modes of support to communities.
Critically evaluate sociological and religious influences on gender roles throughout church history. Explore the role of the Bible in current debates over women in ministry. Analyse contexts, particularly in Pentecostal settings, where egalitarian leaders operate. Examine the dynamics of men and women working together in contemporary church ministries. Gain broad knowledge of influential Christian figures who shaped the perception of shared ministry across historical and cultural boundaries. Finally, construct a personal philosophy of egalitarian ministry.
Explore the key components of children's ministry and how to effectively engage a younger audience with a gospel message.
This unit explores ministry to youth and young people. Ground in love and empathy, we delve into understanding young people's concerns, needs, and pressures. Empower yourself to minister effectively to the next generation and beyond.
Embark on a journey into the roots of the Pentecostal movement in this comprehensive unit. Delve into Pentecostal history and its biblical foundations, exploring theological distinctives.
Uncover the mysteries of human behavior and social dynamics in this captivating unit. Explore the intersections of faith and society as we delve into sociology. Discover the trends and megatrends shaping the Christian community and its practices. Engage with questions about why we form social groups and how our faith influences our interactions with society.
Delve into the complexities of healing in this intriguing unit. Examine different perspectives on healing in the church's history and grapple with profound questions about sickness, suffering, and death through a theological lens. Gain practical skills for supporting others during times of illness, grief, and loss.
Preach by bridging the gap between ancient texts and exploring effective ways to communicate biblically sound truths to a modern world. If you want to learn how to develop life-changing preaching, and bring revelation to postmodern people that struggle with the Christian story, then look no further.
This unit offers the student an introduction to the philosophy of church health and management.
This unit introduces students to a wider range of opportunities to practise their developing skills and techniques in controlled real-life settings under the support of full-time school mentors. Students will be given opportunity to develop their planning, relational and evaluation skills within the setting of professional teams of communities of practice. During this professional experience they will develop effective behaviour management techniques for their teaching style and the learning context, while observing the performance of professional teachers in context, and reflect upon how their personal worldview impacts every aspect of their life and work in education.
Itching to connect the realm of the classroom with some real-life experience? This unit is designed with just this aim in mind. Students will have the chance to engage academically with issues pertaining to their business specialisation plus experience a hands-on 100-hour placement with a variety of formats to choose from.
Embark on a dynamic 100-hour placement journey throughout the semester, offering a diverse array of formats tailored to your interests. Whether you're passionate about pastoral ministry, envisioning a leadership role at organisations like World Vision, or eager to engage in cross-cultural ministry abroad, there's an opportunity suited just for you!
Explore the varied beliefs and rituals prevalent in society through a biblically informed perspective. Students will explore ministry methodologies crucial for effectively integrating spiritually attuned individuals into the Christian faith. The subject encompasses an in-depth investigation of various interpretations of the spiritual realm across major world religions, including an analytical examination within Christianity itself.
In an era of moral relativism, Christians should stand out as moral beacons. In fact, however, the Church is often seen not as a community of love but rather, as a legalistic and hypocritical institution. This unit helps students to think through how they go about making ethical decisions. It argues against legalism and sets up a theological method of approaching ethics that prioritises grace and the power of the Spirit.
Is it an oxymoron to claim that Jesus is both human and divine? How do we make sense of Jesus’ death on the cross? Is the resurrection something that can be believed in this modern scientific era? These are the sort of questions addressed in this unit, which intends to provide students with the opportunity to explore central elements of Christian faith.
This subject offers a deep understanding of Pentecostal spirituality and its theological nuances. Students will examine the doctrine of baptism in the Holy Spirit and the Spirit's pivotal role in shaping the nature and mission of the church. It covers key biblical insights, historical perspectives, and contemporary theological interpretations, including the significance of spiritual gifts, enriching both personal faith and communal worship practices.
Ever wondered what the doctrine of Trinity is all about? Or, what it means that God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit? This subject is designed to answer these questions and to give you a depth of understanding about the nature and being of God as Triune. This course will expand your views about God and the radical significance of who God is.
Is it possible to make sense of Christian faith in the 21st century? This course explores traditional "proofs" of the existence of God and analyses their contemporary relevance. It considers the relationship between theology and science and provides students with tools to defend central elements of the gospel. Students are also challenged to put theory into practice by engaging in discussions about faith with non-Christians.
Ecclesiology is the study of the church. Contemporary churches are often focused on "doing church", but this unit reflects critically on the nature and mission of the church. It puts in place biblical and theological foundations for understanding the church, and then reflects theologically upon contemporary developments. It also considers the relationship between Church Mission and evangelistic and social work activities.
This subject provides insight into the Christian perspectives on the origins of the universe and human nature. Students will explore the doctrine of creation, the concept of humans being made in the image of God, and the intricate relationship between divine providence and human freedom. It connects these theological ideas to contemporary issues, enhancing your ability to apply ancient wisdom to modern challenges in theology and ethics.
Who am I? What is the soul? How should Christian faith interact with the psychological sciences? This unit considers the theological concepts of grace, sin and freedom as found within traditional Christian theologies. It also seeks to interact with the discipline of psychology and provides valuable insights for those providing pastoral advice and counselling from a Christian perspective.
The books of Proverbs and Psalms are two of the most well-known and loved texts within the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible. In addition to Proverbs, the books of Job and Ecclesiastes comprise what is known as Wisdom Literature, a genre of writings from the ancient Near East comprised of sayings and teachings by sages and the wise about the breadth of the human experience. Psalms is an anthology of Hebrew hymns to be used either in collective liturgical settings or for personal expression. Throughout this course, we will engage with tools of exegesis to reflect on how to read the Wisdom and Psalms text, as well as the Song of Songs, which is neither part of Psalms or Wisdom Literature, yet is Hebrew poetry and considers wisdom in relationships.
The time between the end of the Old Testament and the beginning of the New Testament is sometimes erroneously referred to as the "400 Years of Silence." In this course, students enter a world of imperial conquest and theological development to explore how the Jewish people wrestled with faith and survival under foreign rule. Figures such as Daniel, Esther, Tobit, Judith, and Susana teach us faithful resilience in the diaspora, while Ezra, Nehemiah, Zechariah, and Malachi deal with theological and cultural issues back in the land of Israel. This course unpacks the historical context of the neo-Babylonian, Persian, Hasmonean, and Greek/Roman empires to see how the exile reshaped Jewish culture, theology, and communal identity into the Judaism of Jesus' day
This unit enables students to evaluate the identity and mission of Jesus through diverse scholarly perspectives, set against a detailed socio-historical backdrop. By analysing primary and secondary texts and applying Jesus' teachings to contemporary contexts like Pentecostalism, students develop a nuanced understanding of these foundational narratives and their relevance in modern religious discourse.
Have you ever wondered why Christians don’t follow the full Mosaic law? Have you ever asked what sets Christianity apart from Judaism? Paul’s letters to the Romans and Galatians answer these questions and more, and in many ways these letters reveal the heart of his theology. This unit will also synthesise Paul’s thoughts into a storyline of history that informs his pastoral and theological reflections.
This subject has a focus on early childhood development. Students will study the spiritual, physical, cognitive, moral, emotional, and social aspects of early childhood development and consider these through a Christian Worldview lens. They will analyse factors that influence development and implications for educational practice. They will also examine optimal wellbeing and some of the primary challenges that children face in relation to wellbeing and what teachers are doing to support this.
This subject introduces human development with a specific focus on infants and toddlers (0-35 months). Students will study the spiritual, physical, cognitive, moral, emotional, and social aspects of early childhood development and consider these through a Christian Worldview lens. They will analyse factors that influence development and implications for educational practice.
This transformative subject is designed for those aspiring to lead musical worship effectively within their congregations. It combines theological insights with practical skills, from managing rehearsals to leading live worship sets. Students will also learn to communicate strategically pre- and post-service and reflect on their leadership for continuous improvement.
The unique nature and prominence of contemporary worship music in today's churches is worthy of study. It is a phenomenon that has accompanied the emergence of megachurches, created a substantial sub-genre of the popular music industry and crossed cultural and language barriers. It is certainly necessary to understand what is going on, but equally important to assess its theological, historical, sociological, ecclesial and musical implications.
On the job training... there's nothing like it! This practicum is not just about free help to your church's worship team; it is about encountering the on-the-ground issues that arise daily in building, managing and leading a worship team. Not only will you actively engage with the worship ministry, you will also analyse and assess its strengths and weaknesses and contribute to the improvement of the department.
This unit will deepen your knowledge and skill base to specifically explore issues related to building viable communities of young people, which acknowledges and addresses relevant developmental stages. Uncover the role and contribution of young people and youth workers within the local church and beyond.
Whether young, old, single, betrothed, married or unspecified, everyone is affected by the workings of relationships. Explore how the ideals of marriage and the family have evolved throughout history and wider society. Know how to minister to and assist those around you, this unit unpacks strategies which contribute to healthy relationships through every life stage, by exploring the dynamics of family and relationships.
If you had the opportunity to plant a brand new church, what would it look like? What are the personnel and resources required? How does a new church meet the needs of its community? What characteristics and personal stamina are required? Students undertaking this unit will explore the essential need for new churches. It will assist students to develop a church-planting toolkit, by standing on the shoulders of key church planting practitioners, proven principles in the academic literature on entrepreneurship as well as wider historical-biblical-theological foundations of why we should plant churches.
Embark on an in-depth exploration of Christian discipleship. Develop an advanced understanding of its biblical, historical, and theological foundations. Discover the crucial role of discipleship in Christian practice. Analyse factors influencing growth in Christian maturity and critique growth models. Explore spiritual, interpersonal, and social dynamics in an Australian context. Evaluate contemporary discipleship strategies in congregational settings.
This subject affords the Teacher Education Student (TES) an opportunity to consolidate and integrate the knowledge,
skills and attitudes previously developed in other PEX placements. This PEX is a 30-day primary PEX. The subject will
focus on meaningful and authentic learning tasks and contexts, giving specific attention to the design, development,
implementation, student assessment and evaluation of units of work. The TES will develop increasing autonomy in the
classroom and take greater responsibility for observing, planning, teaching and assessing and reporting. It will focus
on the process-driven and critically reflective nature of curriculum work, applying this to the specific needs of the
primary context and learners (K-6). The TES will learn integrative processes and practices and cross-curricular priorities
and reflect upon a range of disciplinary approaches to curriculum. Other skills will also be embedded including
communication with parents/carers and a community focused approach.
This final primary Professional Experience (PEX) subject involves the Teacher Education Student (TES)
taking full responsibility for a classroom and developing more fully a range of skills, knowledge and
attitudes more closely related to those of beginning teaching. This PEX will be done in an ECEC context
(20-day PEX) or a K- 6 context (30 days PEX), the TES will have full responsibility for observing,
planning, implementing, assessing students and reporting, and evaluating units of work, including
embedding individualised programs for specific school students to support inclusion and diversity. The
TES will consider the gaps and silences evident in discourses about learners and learning and critically
engage with ethical practices for inclusivity. A mandatory requirement of this PEX is that TES submit a
Teacher Performance Assessment (TPA), the details of which are on the Moodle for this placement
and in the A3TPA Guidebook.
This final Professional Experience subject involves the Teacher Education Student taking full responsibility for a classroom and develop more fully a range of skills, knowledge and attitudes more closely related to those of beginning teaching. The Teacher Education Student will have full responsibility for observing, planning, implementing, student assessment and reporting, and evaluating units of work, including embedding individualised programs for specific school students to support inclusion and diversity. The Teacher Education Student will consider the gaps and silences evident in discourses about learners and learning and critically engage with ethical practices for inclusivity. The Teacher Education Student submits their Teacher Performance Assessment (TPA) at the conclusion of this subject.
This unit provides an opportunity for students to consolidate and integrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes previously developed in EXP212. The unit focuses on meaningful and authentic learning tasks and contexts, giving specific attention to the design, development, implementation, student assessment and evaluation of units of work. The unit focuses on the process-driven and critically reflective nature of curriculum work, applying this to the specific needs of the secondary school context. Students will learn integrative processes and practices and cross-curricular priorities and reflect upon a range of disciplinary approaches to curriculum. Other skills will also be embedded including communication with parents/carers and a community focused approach. Students should develop increasing autonomy in the classroom and take greater responsibility for observing, planning, teaching, and assessing and reporting through the duration of their professional experience.
This final Professional Experience subject involves the pre-service teacher taking full responsibility for a classroom and develop more fully a range of skills, knowledge and attitudes more closely related to those of beginning teaching. The pre-service teacher will have full responsibility for observing, planning, implementing, student assessment and reporting, and evaluating units of work, including embedding individualised programs for specific school students to support inclusion and diversity.
Advanced Professional Practice in Business builds on Professional Practice in Business. It provides a chance for students to continue the challenging but rewarding combination of academic reflection upon contemporary business issues and hands-on experience. Students will also do 100 hours placement of the course of the semester.
Uncover Christian approaches to world religions, by investigating multicultural societies and intergrating biblical perspectives into social and vocational settings.
Discover the history, culture, theology, philosophy, and politics that shape the religion of Islam. Gain essential insights into Christian-Muslim relations, unraveling the intricate web of contemporary society's cross currents.
Embark on a captivating journey through Church History Foundations, exploring the begginings of the global church, from its inception to this present day. Dive into significant events and influential stakeholders, examining the impact of Christianity across diverse cultural landscapes. Gain insights into the historical and contextual influences of the Church within local communities.
This is a core subject that introduces students to the fields of psychology, social science and the importance of emotions in human identity. It forms the basis for other more advanced psychology subjects. This subject will allow students to develop a better understanding and management of their emotions. This knowledge is then applied to a professional context, enhancing students' abilities to identify and work appropriately with the emotions of clients in an empathetic and professional manner.
This unit seeks to introduce the content of the books of the New Testament while providing a basis for further reading and study. The primary focus will be on the message of each book within its historical-cultural setting with some attention being given to its contribution to the theology of the New Testament as a whole.
The aim of this subject is to familiarise students with Israel's Scriptures as a coherent narrative that is of crucial importance to Christians. While this subject includes a discussion of every book in Israel's Scriptures, it goes beyond this to look at how the character of God is communicated throughout.
Community Engagement explores Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) principles for mobilizing individual and community strengths. Students learn to identify assets, skills, and passions within communities while building collaborative relationships and leadership capacity. The subject emphasizes developing community engagement plans, ethical multidisciplinary practice, and effective referral processes. Through reflective practice, students examine how personal worldview influences community work while maintaining professional wellbeing in Australian and global contexts.
Foundations of Community Services examines asset-based approaches and core competencies for strengthening communities across diverse contexts including mental health, disability, aged care, and child protection. Students explore culturally responsive practices with Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander communities, trauma-informed care, and multidisciplinary frameworks. The subject emphasizes socio-cultural diversity, ethical practice, and personal worldview awareness while developing sustainable wellbeing strategies for effective community-based practice across the lifespan.
Build a foundation in research and writing in this pivotal unit designed to equip students with robust academic writing and research skills specific to the social sciences and counselling fields. Students will enhance their ability to critically assess literature, construct evidence-based arguments, and effectively communicate both orally and in writing, preparing them for advanced studies and professional effectiveness.
Enhance your ability to communicate effectively in professional people-helping settings. This subject will equip you with learning foundational interpersonal communication skills. Through practical exercises, you will develop your counselling micro-skills including conflict management responses, within a culturally sensitive framework. This unit is designed to meet PACFA and ACA training requirements.
Dive into a comprehensive overview of human services and its theoretical frameworks. This subject prepares students for diverse roles within case management, counselling, and support services, focusing on effective service delivery and client care. Students will learn the fundamentals of the case management process, explore various professional roles, and apply reflective practices to improve their proficiency and understanding of good practice.
This is a core subject that introduces students to the fields of psychology, social science and the importance of emotions in human identity. It forms the basis for other more advanced psychology subjects. This subject will allow students to develop a better understanding and management of their emotions. This knowledge is then applied to a professional context, enhancing students' abilities to identify and work appropriately with the emotions of clients in an empathetic and professional manner.
This unit will explore the broader historical roots of spiritual approaches. Students are encouraged to express faith in new ways and deepen the spirituality of your local Christian community. In doing so, students will have a chance to connect with their heritage and participate in a broad range of spiritual exercises practiced by the wider body of Christ throughout history.
In this introductory subject, students will explore a broad variety of topics that form the very basis of pastoral ministry. Primarily, students will consider contemporary pastoral models that connect academic reflection with the real world. Topics discussed will range from defining ministry, calling and ordination to conflict resolution, and being effective in caring for others. Students will also be provided with ample opportunity to engage creatively with these topics to make connections with their own contexts.
Have you ever wanted to read the bible in its original language? Old Testament Hebrew 1 presents you with the foundational tools, vocabulary and grammar to not only understand OT Hebrew, but also to translate simple OT Hebrew texts into English. By having these tools, you will gain foundational knowledge of the richness and wonder of the Hebrew language.
Be equipped as a future pastor or church leader to inspire vision and make an impact in Australian churches with a world mission focus.
This unit seeks to introduce the content of the books of the New Testament while providing a basis for further reading and study. The primary focus will be on the message of each book within its historical-cultural setting with some attention being given to its contribution to the theology of the New Testament as a whole.
The aim of this subject is to familiarise students with Israel's Scriptures as a coherent narrative that is of crucial importance to Christians. While this subject includes a discussion of every book in Israel's Scriptures, it goes beyond this to look at how the character of God is communicated throughout.
While modern translation of the Bible are wonderful resources, they sometimes mask the richness present in the original languages of the Bible. In this unit, students will develop a foundational understanding of New Testament Greek grammar and vocabulary. They will learn to read, write, and translate simple Greek texts, enhancing their interpretative skills.
This special elective is designed to coincide with the Cartledge Lecture
This subject is delivered for City Harvest Church students.
Gaining insight into Australian society through a sociological lens is pivotal in understanding the complex influences shaping identity. This unit delves into how cultural and social factors shape personal and community identities. By examining the various structures and facets of society and social policy, students will learn to actively participate in the various social spheres with which they need to engage as practioners.
This subject explores the developmental journey and processes that an individual goes through over a lifespan, from conception to death. It introduces various theories and milestones associated with each life stage and includes multicultural and critical perspectives on development. It will enable students to help individuals understand normal developmental processes, whether in health, education, minstry or people helping fields.
Supporting those experiencing grief and loss is crucial for effective counselling. This unit equips students with specialised skills to support individuals navigating these challenging experiences. Students will learn to distinguish between different types of grief and develop tailored intervention strategies, enhancing their ability to empathise and provide essential support within a self-care framework.
Understanding group dynamics and community leadership is essential for supporting effective change in group settings. This unit equips students with the skills to lead and develop communities while integrating both sociological and Christian perspectives. Through hands-on experiences, students will learn to manage ethical issues and apply professional standards, preparing them to positively impact community and group work settings.
Gaining insight into mental health conditions is pivotal for providing effective support and intervention. Students in this subject will learn to recognise symptoms, deliver appropriate assistance, and understand the role of the community in supporting mental wellbeing. They will develop skills in treating individuals with empathy, respect, and compassion, while fostering a hopeful and supportive environment.
Gaining a deep understanding of various counselling theories is essential for effective therapeutic practice. This subject provides a comprehensive overview of historical and modern counselling methodologies, from Freudian psychoanalysis to contemporary approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology. Students will learn how to critically evaluate different models, reflect on their personal and professional implications, and apply them across diverse therapeutic contexts.
This subject helps to prepare you to work effectively with clients by learning advanced counselling micro-skills and techniques in. With an emphasis on applying micro-skills and evidence-based methods in counselling contexts, you'll learn how to respond to complex needs such as anxiety and stress. This unit aligns with professional practice standards, offering practical, experiential training, that includes role-plays, to continue the development of your interpersonal communication skills.
Understanding ethical and legal frameworks is vital for anyone entering the people helping profession. This subject helps students to understand the ethical principles and legal requirements within their field, in order to confidently manage complex ethical dilemmas. You will learn to apply ethical decision-making models, prioritise self-care, and appreciate the importance of ongoing professional development.
Delve into the complexities of healing in this intriguing unit. Examine different perspectives on healing in the church's history and grapple with profound questions about sickness, suffering, and death through a theological lens. Gain practical skills for supporting others during times of illness, grief, and loss.
Critically evaluate sociological and religious influences on gender roles throughout church history. Explore the role of the Bible in current debates over women in ministry. Analyse contexts, particularly in Pentecostal settings, where egalitarian leaders operate. Examine the dynamics of men and women working together in contemporary church ministries. Gain broad knowledge of influential Christian figures who shaped the perception of shared ministry across historical and cultural boundaries. Finally, construct a personal philosophy of egalitarian ministry.
Explore the key components of children's ministry and how to effectively engage a younger audience with a gospel message.
This unit explores ministry to youth and young people. Ground in love and empathy, we delve into understanding young people's concerns, needs, and pressures. Empower yourself to minister effectively to the next generation and beyond.
Embark on a journey into the roots of the Pentecostal movement in this comprehensive unit. Delve into Pentecostal history and its biblical foundations, exploring theological distinctives.
Uncover the mysteries of human behavior and social dynamics in this captivating unit. Explore the intersections of faith and society as we delve into sociology. Discover the trends and megatrends shaping the Christian community and its practices. Engage with questions about why we form social groups and how our faith influences our interactions with society.
Preach by bridging the gap between ancient texts and exploring effective ways to communicate biblically sound truths to a modern world. If you want to learn how to develop life-changing preaching, and bring revelation to postmodern people that struggle with the Christian story, then look no further.
Dive into the complex realm of evangelism in this thought-provoking unit. Whether you're an extrovert or introvert, this unit invites students to explore the historical, biblical, and theological foundations of gospel communication. Equip yourself with effective communication skills and the empowerment of the Spirit. Discover strategies for engaging the church will complex global issues and bring tangible modes of support to communities.
This unit offers the student an introduction to the philosophy of church health and management.
Leadership isn't just about authority; it's about values, communication, and problem-solving. This subject explores diverse leadership theories, cultivating self-awareness and critical evaluation. Students learn to navigate ethical dilemmas, develop team dynamics, and influence organizational culture, preparing for leadership roles across various sectors.
This unit builds on New Testament Greek 1 to give you a solid foundation for your knowledge of Biblical Greek. This unit rounds out a full year of Greek study and will equip you with a good working knowledge of Greek grammar as we come to see more fully the beauty of the Greek verbal system and its significance for understanding the original text.
This subject builds upon Old Testament Hebrew 1 unit, enabling you to read OT Hebrew more effectively. Together we will translate many OT Hebrew texts into English – which will bring the text alive and make all your effort worth it! So come experience the new revelations that are available when you read the OT in its original language.
Learning to interpret the Bible effectively enhances your ability to analyse and apply scripture in contemporary settings. This subject explores the evolution of interpretative methods, the crucial role of the reader, and the importance of historical and cultural contexts. You will learn to navigate various biblical genres and apply guiding principles to make relevant theological conclusions, equipping you for informed and thoughtful engagement with biblical texts.
Understanding the Old Testament offers valuable insights into the historical and cultural contexts that shaped the ancient world, helping you to gain more wisdom and understanding when engaging with these texts. In this subject, students examine the Old Testament's historical, geographical, and social contexts, analyse its passages and themes, and learn how everyday life and cultural settings in biblical times inform contemporary interpretations.
This subject explores various perspectives on the Spirit of God in the Old Testament. Primary biblical materials and secondary literature from a range of perspectives will be analysed. Students will also examine the socio-historical background relevant to the functions of the Spirit in the Old Testament and will apply passages on the Spirit to modern Pentecostalism.
The letters of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon were written from prison and yet deal with some of the most liberating concepts imaginable. Time spent with these letters will be richly rewarded and equip us for life in multiple dimensions; spiritual, relational, personal and corporate. We will examine how these four letters from captivity have the power to free readers from unconscious imprisoning ideas.
Why would Paul, a Hebrew speaking Jew, writing to Latin speaking Romans, use Greek? Why was the liberating message of the crucified messiah considered "foolish?" This unit examines the culture, customs, and values of the first century. It shows how radical the Christian minority group was in the face of the Roman Empire and invites you to assess your own convictions and values as a 21st century Christian.
The Pastoral Epistles show us that intrigue and controversy are not new to the church. The letters of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus and are located towards the end of Paul’s life and ministry career. These letters give insight into the need for stabilisation and structure within the emerging Christian communities in Ephesus and Crete.
Explore the varied beliefs and rituals prevalent in society through a biblically informed perspective. Students will explore ministry methodologies crucial for effectively integrating spiritually attuned individuals into the Christian faith. The subject encompasses an in-depth investigation of various interpretations of the spiritual realm across major world religions, including an analytical examination within Christianity itself.
Effective chaplaincy and pastoral care requires an understanding of the diverse settings in which care may be required, as well as the pillars of best practice. By learning the foundational theories and skills needed for chaplaincy and pastoral care, students will develop competence in providing care across a range of circumstances and within a variety of social, cultural and spiritual or religious contexts.
Navigating the transition from theory to practice is critical in any professional field. This subject integrates academic learning with real-world application through a 100-hour supervised placement in a social science-oriented organisation. This experience will help to develop your professional practice skills and self-reflection to ensure continuous professional growth, under the guidance of a professional supervisor.
Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential for effective counselling. This unit offers a 100-hour supervised counselling placement through the AC Wellbeing Centre and an external organisation. It allows you to apply prior learning and engage in reflective practice, enhancing your professional competence. This placement will also refine your ability to manage professional relationships and administrative tasks within a real-world counselling setting.
Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential to effectively work with young people. This unit offers a 100-hour supervised youth studies placement through a specialised youth organisation. It allows you to apply prior learning and engage in reflective practice, enhancing your professional competence. This placement will also refine your ability to manage professional relationships and administrative tasks within a real-world counselling setting.
Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential to effectively work in chaplaincy and pastoral care. This unit offers a 100-hour supervised chaplaincy and pastoral care placement through a chaplaincy organisation. It allows you to apply prior learning and engage in reflective practice, enhancing your professional competence. This placement will also refine your ability to manage professional relationships and administrative tasks within a real-world counselling setting.
Having a basic understanding of trauma and its effects is essential for any professional working within the community. This unit gives an introduction to understanding what constitutes trauma, along a continuum from acute to chronic presentations. Additionally, you will learn about self-care to manage the effects of trauma on the people helper, aiding in longevity and efficacy in this challenging field.
Professional accountability is crucial in developing ethical and effective practice as a counsellor or people helper. This unit is delivered in the same semester as students undertake their supervised field placements and offers weekly group supervision. Students will receive weekly support to help build their assessment and intervention skills, whilst working with actual client’s. The subject meets PACFA's experiential training requirements, focusing on real-world application through case conferences and peer review whilst preparing you to handle professional challenges ethically and effectively, integrating critical reflection and a Christian worldview.
Gaining proficiency in evidenced supported strengths based modalities is important in modern psychological practice. This unit introduces Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Positive Psychology, focusing on the methodology of these strengths based approaches and developing skills to implement these across various settings from individual to organisational applications. Students will have the opportunity to develop many specific skills in addition to increasing their ability to integrate techniques from aligned modalities to enhance client engagement and outcomes.
Navigating social and cultural diversity skilfully and considerately is vital in people-helping fields. This subject explores the competencies required to understand and respect diversity within communities, developing empathetic and effective strategies to provide care across socially and culturally diverse contexts. Students will learn to assess and enhance their own social and cultural awareness, whilst developing their social and cultural competence for professional practice.
Gaining proficiency in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is highly beneficial for effective counselling as CBT is still considered the gold standard of evidenced based therapeutic intervention. This unit introduces the foundational theories and practices of CBT, offering students practical skills in applying these techniques across diverse counselling scenarios.
Understanding relationships is foundational for effective therapy. Building on prior knowledge of personality and behaviour, you will delve into the complexities of relational dynamics, including the impact of family backgrounds and life changes such as separation or divorce. Through practical role-plays and evidence-based strategies, you'll learn to navigate and improve various relationship scenarios, preparing you to support clients effectively in maintaining healthy relationships.
Through this unit, students will be provided with an in-depth overview of developmental, psychological, and behavioural aspects crucial to understanding and supporting children and young people. Students will learn to apply theories in an holistic approach, within professional and ethical frameworks. They will also gain skills in working effectively within broader teams, referral networks and support structures to respond to the unique needs of children and adolescents.
Understanding family dynamics is pivotal for effective counselling. This unit offers a comprehensive exploration of family structures and their impacts on individuals. It blends modern and post-modern counselling theories with practical role-play exercises, providing insights into systemic approaches to therapy. You will not only learn to navigate complex family situations but also reflect on how your own family experiences might influence your professional practice.
This unit explores the skills and srategies required to understand and support adolescents through their unique challenges. Students will be introduced to the evolution of adolescence and its implications for both historical and contemporary youth work practices. Students will investigate local youth work sectors, and learn to apply an integrative approach to working with young people.
Navigating youth issues effectively is essential for fostering supportive environments that address the unique challenges faced by young people. This unit delves into contemporary youth issues, exploring how they are perceived and affect both individual lives and broader societal dynamics. Students will develop non-judgemental, empathetic strategies for engaging with young people on critical topics whilst adhering to standards of best practice
If you had the opportunity to plant a brand new church, what would it look like? What are the personnel and resources required? How does a new church meet the needs of its community? What characteristics and personal stamina are required? Students undertaking this unit will explore the essential need for new churches. It will assist students to develop a church-planting toolkit, by standing on the shoulders of key church planting practitioners, proven principles in the academic literature on entrepreneurship as well as wider historical-biblical-theological foundations of why we should plant churches.
This unit will deepen your knowledge and skill base to specifically explore issues related to building viable communities of young people, which acknowledges and addresses relevant developmental stages. Uncover the role and contribution of young people and youth workers within the local church and beyond.
Whether young, old, single, betrothed, married or unspecified, everyone is affected by the workings of relationships. Explore how the ideals of marriage and the family have evolved throughout history and wider society. Know how to minister to and assist those around you, this unit unpacks strategies which contribute to healthy relationships through every life stage, by exploring the dynamics of family and relationships.
Embark on an in-depth exploration of Christian discipleship. Develop an advanced understanding of its biblical, historical, and theological foundations. Discover the crucial role of discipleship in Christian practice. Analyse factors influencing growth in Christian maturity and critique growth models. Explore spiritual, interpersonal, and social dynamics in an Australian context. Evaluate contemporary discipleship strategies in congregational settings.
Understanding group dynamics is key in today's organisations, where teamwork can make or break success. This unit equips students with strategies to promote ethical and effective behaviours, examining the impact of leadership, structure, and values. Students will navigate complexities like conflict and cultural diversity, applying their knowledge to enhance organisational outcomes and drive positive change in any organisational setting.
Continuing from the two previous units of NT Greek study, this unit builds on your foundational understanding of Greek grammar and focuses on a more advanced understanding of Greek syntax. In this unit, there is a significant emphasis on equipping you to read, translate and exegete the NT in order to draw out the wonder of its original message.
Building upon two previous units of OT Hebrew, this unit bridges the gap between your foundational basics of OT Hebrew grammar and an advanced understanding of OT Hebrew syntax. As such, this is the unit where all your previous hard work pays off, as reading and translating becomes more effortless and rewarding.
The books of Proverbs and Psalms are two of the most well-known and loved texts within the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible. In addition to Proverbs, the books of Job and Ecclesiastes comprise what is known as Wisdom Literature, a genre of writings from the ancient Near East comprised of sayings and teachings by sages and the wise about the breadth of the human experience. Psalms is an anthology of Hebrew hymns to be used either in collective liturgical settings or for personal expression. Throughout this course, we will engage with tools of exegesis to reflect on how to read the Wisdom and Psalms text, as well as the Song of Songs, which is neither part of Psalms or Wisdom Literature, yet is Hebrew poetry and considers wisdom in relationships.
The time between the end of the Old Testament and the beginning of the New Testament is sometimes erroneously referred to as the "400 Years of Silence." In this course, students enter a world of imperial conquest and theological development to explore how the Jewish people wrestled with faith and survival under foreign rule. Figures such as Daniel, Esther, Tobit, Judith, and Susana teach us faithful resilience in the diaspora, while Ezra, Nehemiah, Zechariah, and Malachi deal with theological and cultural issues back in the land of Israel. This course unpacks the historical context of the neo-Babylonian, Persian, Hasmonean, and Greek/Roman empires to see how the exile reshaped Jewish culture, theology, and communal identity into the Judaism of Jesus' day
This unit enables students to evaluate the identity and mission of Jesus through diverse scholarly perspectives, set against a detailed socio-historical backdrop. By analysing primary and secondary texts and applying Jesus' teachings to contemporary contexts like Pentecostalism, students develop a nuanced understanding of these foundational narratives and their relevance in modern religious discourse.
Have you ever wondered why Christians don’t follow the full Mosaic law? Have you ever asked what sets Christianity apart from Judaism? Paul’s letters to the Romans and Galatians answer these questions and more, and in many ways these letters reveal the heart of his theology. This unit will also synthesise Paul’s thoughts into a storyline of history that informs his pastoral and theological reflections.
Uncover Christian approaches to world religions, by investigating multicultural societies and intergrating biblical perspectives into social and vocational settings.
Discover the history, culture, theology, philosophy, and politics that shape the religion of Islam. Gain essential insights into Christian-Muslim relations, unraveling the intricate web of contemporary society's cross currents.
