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Ministry

Graduate Certificate in Leadership

CRICOS: 084482D

Imagine unlocking your full leadership potential and confidently guiding and growing your church or organisation. Feel the encouragement as you come alongside likeminded leaders as you grow together. The Graduate Certificate in Leadership at Alphacrucis University College is designed to equip leaders like you with the essential skills and insights needed to enhance your leadership journey, integrating cutting-edge research with spiritual principles and practical applications.

Course Duration
6 Months, up to 3 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face, Online Intensive, Live Intensive
Study Locations
Online, Sydney*, Brisbane*, Melbourne*, Perth*, Adelaide*, Hobart*
* Some subjects are available on campus, see the timetable to confirm location and mode.
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2)
Fees
$3,150 per subject
Subjects
4

What is the Graduate Certificate in Leadership?

The Graduate Certificate in Leadership is designed for experienced leaders and professionals seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities. This course integrates advanced leadership theories with a biblical perspective, focusing on personal growth, team dynamics, and organisational innovation. You will develop critical and creative thinking skills essential for any leadership context while exploring the implications of Christian Theology within your leadership settings. The Graduate Certificate in Leadership also serves as an entry pathway to the flagship Master of Leadership course.

Who is this for?

Do you have years of experience in senior leadership positions?

Are you driven by a desire to make a lasting impact in your community and beyond?

Do you seek advanced skills to guide your congregations and ministries through transformative times?

Are you looking to drive growth, innovation and inspire change within your organisation?

Are you a director or board member who wants to contribute governance expertise?

Outcomes

Senior Pastor: Lead and inspire your church community with a blend of spiritual wisdom and practical leadership.

Executives and Board Member: Transform mission-driven organisations with strategic vision and compassionate leadership.

Educational Leader: Shape the future of education through visionary leadership roles, such as Principal, Vice-Principal or Head of School.

Consultancy: Drive innovation and ethical practices in corporate settings as a top-tier consultant.

Master of Leadership: Continue your academic journey and obtain the Master of Leadership, further honing your expertise and impact.

I think anyone who's got Alphacrucis as a part of their journey is better off for it.

Mark Varughese, Senior Pastor Kingdomcity

Accreditation

*This course meets the theological qualification requirements to be an ordained minister in churches that are part of the Australian Christian Churches movement, which represents over 1,100 churches throughout Australia and neighbouring countries.

If your church is part of another denomination, please check with your church or denomination office if this course is also recognised for credentialled ministry.

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Core
4 Subjects
40 Credit Points
Authentic Leadership LEA401

Navigating leadership challenges effectively requires a nuanced understanding of contemporary theories and a solid foundation in Christian values. This unit prepares students to dissect historical and modern leadership approaches, emphasising the impact on not-for-profit sectors. You will learn to apply these insights practically, enhancing both self-leadership and team leadership capabilities.

Organisational Leadership LEA535

In today's rapidly evolving landscape, leaders need tools to rethink and redefine how they achieve goals and inspire teams. This unit focuses on analysing and enhancing organisational structures to lead change effectively. You will delve into systems thinking, develop high-performance work systems, and navigate the complexities of organisational culture.

Raising Christian Leaders LEA403

This subject equips you with the tools to develop Christian leaders effectively, blending biblical models with modern strategies in mentoring, modelling, and coaching. You will critically assess the dynamics between leaders and their teams in various contexts and explore how spirituality, authenticity, and trust influence leader development. This comprehensive approach prepares you to shape leaders who can make impactful contributions globally.

And choose ONE of the following
Faith and Purpose ACA401

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.

ONE Theology (THE) subject at 400, 500 or 600 level
Advanced Research in Theology THE406

This subject has been designed to assist students in crafting a comprehensive research proposal in their discipline area. Throughout the semester, students will engage in monthly meetings with their dedicated research supervisor, who will provide valuable feedback on draft versions of the research student’s work. Working independently and collaboratively ensures that the final proposal represents a viable research project proposition. By the end of the subject, students should have a well-researched and articulated proposal ready for submission.

Introduction to Theology THE405

Gaining a foundational understanding of theology equips you with the tools to interpret Christian beliefs and their application to life and mission. This subject explores the historical and contemporary formation of core doctrines such as the Trinity, creation, and redemption. It delves into how these elements influence individual spirituality and inform broader aspects of life, mission, and vocation, offering a foundation for deeper spiritual engagement and practical application.

Christ and Salvation THE501

Understanding Christology enriches your comprehension of the historical, biblical, and contemporary perspectives on the person and work of Jesus Christ. This subject delves into the theological underpinnings that inform modern Christian thought and life, examining everything from the quest for the historical Jesus to the development of early Christology and theories of atonement.

Pneumatology THE503

This subject examines the development of beliefs about the Holy Spirit, particularly form a Pentecostal perspective, and how these influence the doctrine and practice of the church today. It covers modern theologies of the Spirit and the Pentecostal distinctives like baptism in the Spirit, linking these concepts to broader ecclesiastical and ecumenical dialogues.

Christian Ethics THE504

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.

Trinity and Christian Life THE508

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.

Ecclesiology THE511

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.

Apologetics THE512

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.

Creation and Humanity THE513

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.

Theology and Psychology THE530

Integrating theology and psychology provides a unique perspective, blending theological anthropology with psychological insights. This subject explores concepts such as the imago Dei, soul, and consciousness, and applies them to understand identity, meaning, and well-being. You will critically assess and synthesise these perspectives, applying them to practical aspects of human flourishing.

Theologians: Method and Meaning THE601

This unit introduces you to the work of some seminal theologians from Christian tradition and the 20th/21st century. In reviewing these influential theologians from both historical and modern contexts, you will compare and critique their insights, understand their methods, and learn to articulate and discuss these concepts effectively with peers, providing a comprehensive view of their impact on theology today.

Seminar Presentation of Theological Research THE602

Enhancing your ability to conduct and present theological research, this subject challenges you to delve into contemporary theological issues using advanced research skills. You will propose and develop a research topic, applying a coherent theological method to formulate a solid argument. The subject culminates in a presentation to peers, where you will also critically and constructively engage with their research.

Work-Integrated Learning

Work-Integrated Learning may be undertaken through various Professional Practice and Professional Experience subjects at AC. These subjects seek to create a direct linkage between the learning, skills and values engaged in lectures, and the reflection which occurs when these are applied in real-life settings. These work-based training subjects comprise of instruction, academic assessment and a placement in a workplace for each subject.

Students are usually required to find their own workplace/ employer/ mentor to be approved by AC. In some cases, a new aspect within a student’s current paid employment may be suitable as a work placement.

More Information

For more information and details of previous course structures see Student Handbook.

*You can also use the Subject & Unit Search to explore the subjects (including electives) available to enrol in for this course and can filter by subject area and level.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.

What people say

  • Iliafi Esera

    Senior Pastor, Faith City United Churches, General Superintendent of New Zealand AOG, New Zealand Order of Merit 

    The Master of Leadership is like you’ve found where you hang your hat and coat – things start to make sense. The leadership program has helped me to re-think how I mentor and train people to fulfil their God given destinies.

  • Matt Sharples

    Senior Pastor, Abundant Life Church, ACC Tasmania State President, Leader, Youth Alive Tasmania, Sports Chaplaincy Tasmania

    What I'm learning at AC is so relevant to my leadership context and helps me gain clarity and practical tools for my staff meetings, sermons, and strategic meetings. Online learning means I can work at my own pace, and the material is too good not to engage with it. I wasn't ready for the Master of Leadership 10 years ago, but I'm so thankful I'm doing it now before it's too late. 

  • Cathie Fabian

    Sun City Christian Centre

    The Transformational Leadership Intensive provided an exceptional overview of leadership, delivered with wisdom and compassion by proven leaders. The program emphasised authentic relationships in Christ to strengthen the local Church and advance the Kingdom of God. I am inspired to continue learning and applying these teachings, recognising the importance of ongoing reflection for spiritual transformation and effectiveness.

  • Trish & Oti

    Graduate Certificate in Leadership

    Studying leadership at AC has uniquely prepared us to guide our church in this new world. We wanted to better ourselves as leaders and to outwork our role more appropriately to a contemporary church context. We had a very specific role in continuing and further developing what our parents had set up at church prior to our leadership. Studying at AC helped us cement our calling and helped outwork our leadership at the highest capacity.

  • Learning Outcomes

    Knowledge

    • Integrated understanding of key issues, theoretical concepts and practices within leadership.
    • Knowledge of various approaches used in leadership within the Christian worldview framework.

    Skills

    • Critically apply knowledge developed for use in leadership.
    • Use critical, evidenced based and innovative thinking skills to analyse and synthesise ideas and theories from other disciplines related to leadership.
    • Communicate effectively ideas and proposed solutions to peers and general audiences.
    • Identify and critically evaluate new developments and scholarship in leadership.

    Ability

    • Articulate appropriate solutions to emerging business challenges.
    • Evaluate broad conceptual frameworks in leadership.
    • Critically and independently apply the knowledge and skills required as an informed practitioner in leadership.

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    Higher Education Study

    Completion of an AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree (or higher) in any discipline by an authorised institution.

    Applicants seeking entry on the basis of higher education study are also required to demonstrate a minimum of 3 years’ relevant work experience in a managerial or professional leadership role.

    Applicants must submit a copy of their CV with a cover letter outlining how they meet the criteria.

    International Students – Language Requirements

    IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 7.0 (with no score below 6.5 in any of the four skills areas).

     

    Pre-admission Interview

    The Program Director may conduct a pre-admission interview (either face-to-face or phone or online) with any applicants to assess academic suitability and preparedness of the applicant for this level study.

    Professional Entry – Applicants who do not meet academic requirements

    Demonstrate a minimum of 5 years relevant work experience in a managerial or professional leadership role.

    Applicants must submit a copy of their CV with a cover letter outlining how they meet the above criteria, or equivalent.

    This is an alternate pathway for applicants who do not meet other academic requirements.

    How to Apply

    • Get Started

      Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.

    • Apply

      It’s easy! Apply online below or contact us and we can help on 1300 228 355.

    • Offer

      We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.

    Key Dates
    Semester 1
    Term 1
    February / March
    Term 2
    April
    Semester 2
    Term 3
    July / August
    Term 4
    November

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