Diploma of Chaplaincy and Diploma of Leadership
The Diploma of Chaplaincy and Diploma of Leadership combines cutting edge leadership training with practical skills to help others, accredited and endorsed by Chaplaincy Australia.. This course is taught from a Christian perspective to equip you with the skills to lead in the workplace. Complete this double diploma in 1.5 years (full-time), instead of 2 years.
Course Description
The combined Diploma of Chaplaincy and Diploma of Leadership is designed to prepare you for leadership in a wide variety of roles in helping others.
Through this exciting program, you will receive practical and theological training on how to minister to those in need, gain greater understanding of yourself and those around you, and be empowered to make a real and lasting difference in people’s lives.
The Diploma of Chaplaincy portion of the course will contain intensives as well as practicum components of working in the field. Combined with solid biblical knowledge and application of principles in self-management and leading others, graduates will be well-positioned for a wide variety of roles in chaplaincy, community services, not-for-profits, churches and para-church organisations.
This combined diploma also provides a solid foundation for students who may wish to progress onto an undergraduate course in Ministry or Theology. Candidates with individual diploma awards from AC can also qualify for credit/subject exemptions to receive this double diploma.

Course Structure
This double diploma arrangement is based on three semesters (each of 13 weeks duration), with four subjects taught in each semester. It comprises:
- 8 Core Subjects (80 credit points)
- 4 Elective Subjects (40 credit points)
To qualify for award of the degree of Diploma of Chaplaincy and Diploma of Leadership a candidate shall accrue an aggregate of at least 120 credit points.
Subjects
Core / 8 Subjects (80 credit points)
Specialisation
An optional specialisation in Community Chaplaincy is available to all students. Students interested in becoming accredited Chaplains must complete the subjects in this specialisation.
Electives / 4 Subjects (40 credit points)
View the full list of subjects for this course.
Rules of Progression
Any rules of progress defined in the Diploma of Chaplaincy or Diploma of Leadership apply.
Admission Criteria
Applicants with Recent Secondary Education (within the past 2 years)
Applicants with recent high school education only will demonstrate completion of the NSW Higher School Certificate, or the completion of the interstate or overseas equivalent qualification.
Applicants with Vocational Education and Training (VET) Study
Applicants with a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification will demonstrate the completion of a Certificate III or higher qualification awarded by an authorised institution or registered training organisation (RTO).
Applicants with Higher Education Study
Applicants whose highest level of study enrolment since leaving secondary education is a higher education qualification will demonstrate the completion of an AQF Level 5 Diploma (or higher) by an authorised institution for admission into this course.
Applicants with Work and Life Experience
Applicants who have not completed formal higher education study are eligible for direct entry into this course.
Language
If English is not the applicant’s first language or if their first degree was awarded in a non English speaking nation, they will be required to show proficiency in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (or equivalent) with an overall IELTS (or equivalent) score of at least 5.5, with a score of not less than 5.0 in any of the four skill areas, or equivalent.
Statement of Intent
A 200-word Statement of Intent, which is a short summary of why you wish to study this program.
A reference from a minister / community leader which endorses your readiness and suitability to complete the chaplaincy training and undertake a chaplaincy work placement in the community. The letter should contain the endorser's letter head, contact details and signature. Examples of appropriate community include: Pastor or Minister, Rotary Member, Council Member, or JP.
Study Modes
Delivery Mode*: Face-to-Face (Campus class), Online Live (Zoom class), Online Recorded
Locations**: Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Hobart, Melbourne, Adelaide, Online
Duration: 1.5 years (three semesters) full-time, or up to five years part-time.
Intakes: Semester 1, Semester 2
* Our study modes are flexible so you can mix-and-match different modes throughout your course to fit your needs. For example, a face-to-face student can choose to attend some classes online or an online student may choose to take some subjects face-to-face.
** Some subjects may only be available in certain study modes each semester. Please check the timetable for the most up-to-date information. Face-to-face classes can be delivered weekly or via intensives, where the subject is delivered in a block over consecutive weekdays and/or weekends. Some subjects must be completed face-to-face to meet professional accreditation requirements.
Fees & Timetable
Fee-Help information and a complete Fee Schedule for all Alphacrucis courses can be found in our Fees Information section.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.
Course Learning Outcomes
Demonstrated:
- general understanding of key issues, recent scholarship and practices within the discipline areas of chaplaincy and leadership, consistent with a Christian worldview;
- depth of understanding of practical fieldwork;
- technical and theoretical understanding of basic research principles and methods, and knowledge of research approaches used in the discipline areas of chaplaincy and leadership.
Demonstrated ability to:
- identify, analyse and synthesise theoretical knowledge in the discipline areas of chaplaincy and leadership;
- examine a complex problem or presenting issues using appropriate leadership and chaplaincy methodologies and theories;
- communicate technical and creative skills to express leadership ideas and perspectives;
- communicate effectively to transfer knowledge and specialised chaplaincy skills to peers, clients, and general audiences in diverse contexts;
- communicate effectively and creatively ideas and perspectives on key business issues, recent scholarship and practices in business to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts;
- apply theoretical and technical knowledge and skills acquired within the specialist area of leadership in a range of professional contexts to develop appropriate solutions to chaplaincy issues;
- work independently, responsibly and with the level expected in a broad range of professional, chaplaincy, and leadership contexts;
- collaborate in team projects to make a positive contribution toward social issues;
- undertake self-reflection and evaluation of performance for the purpose of vocational development.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this course of study may find employment in a relevant occupational field, such as: business and professional organisations; mission-based or not-for-profit organisations or educational institutions that require skills in creative and innovative thinking.
STUDENT STORY
“My time at AC really helped me see and understand the Word through a lens I had never seen before, helped me to become a better communicator practically, but most importantly, it has deepened my love for God personally.”
JASON MENDIS
Master of Arts (Leadership)

Student Services
For more information on the suite of student support services available, please see our Student Services section.