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Research

Doctor of Ministry

CRICOS: 084480F

Are you an experienced leader looking to make a profound impact in church, academic, and community settings? The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program at Alphacrucis University College is designed for graduates with significant leadership experience who are ready to make a lasting contribution to the Church and society. This advanced program will pair you with a supervisor who will teach you how to research effectively and equip you to become a thought leader in Christian ministry.

Course Duration
3 years full time, up to 10 years part time
Study Modes
Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face
Study Locations
Online, Sydney*, Brisbane*, Melbourne*, Perth*, Adelaide*, Hobart*, Korean 한국어학부
* Some subjects are available on campus, see the timetable to confirm location and mode.
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2)
Fees
$2,650 per subject
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Subjects
3 Subjects (240 credit points)
Speak to enrolment advisorDownload Course Guide

What is the Doctor of Ministry?

The Doctor of Ministry is a postgraduate program that combines advanced research coursework with a significant research thesis. Designed for leaders in churches, ministries, educational institutions, and other organisations, the DMin provides the tools to critically explore and address complex challenges and opportunities for the Church in our world. Through rigorous research and scholarship, you will gain advanced skills in critical thinking, communication, and creative problem-solving. Your research will make a significant and original contribution to the field of Christian ministry, helping to shape its future.

Who is this for?

Are you a seasoned leader in a church, parachurch, educational institution, mission-oriented organisation?

Do you have significant experience to pass on to future generations?

Are you eager to research and address contemporary issues in Christian ministry?

Do you aspire to make a lasting impact through innovative leadership and practice?

The Doctor of Ministry will help you realise these aspirations!

Outcomes

Elevate your expertise and thought leadership.

Equip yourself to become a lecturer or trainer in your area of specialisation.

Enhance your qualifications for Leadership roles across sectors.

Develop as a church pastor, church administrator, or pastoral educator.

Make a significant contribution to the field of Christian ministry through original research.

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

Mark Varughese, Senior Pastor Kingdomcity

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Core
2 Subjects
220 Credit Points
Survey of Research Methods RES801
In this subject, students will gain an understanding of the difference between quantitative and qualitative approaches to research and will effectively construct and communicate a research project on a topic of their interest, which will inform and enhance their selected research field.
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Research Thesis RES802

This subject is designed to equip students to identify, investigate and address an issue within their own professional life. Students will develop a thesis that explores issues of relevancy to them and their context. The goal of this thesis is not only to benefit the student but also to contribute to the mission of the Church through its contribution to learning and/or new practice.

This subject is available for study on either a full‑time or part‑time basis.

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Specialisation
1 Subject
20 Credit Points
XXX806 Advanced Research in Discipline Area (choose 1 of the following subjects based on your area of specialisation)
Advanced Research in Theology THE806

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.

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Advanced Research in Education EDU806

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.

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Advanced Research in Business BUS806

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.

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Course Information

Download Doctor of Ministry 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.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge

  • Critical, creative and systematic understanding of a substantial and complex body of knowledge that makes an original contribution to a particular area in the practice of ministry.
  • Advanced knowledge of scholarship and recent developments in the area of under consideration.
  • Understanding of advanced research principles and methods, and substantial knowledge of specific research approaches used in the field of practical ministry.

Skills

  • Autonomously and analytically engage in critical reflection, synthesis and evaluation of the body of theoretical knowledge related to a particular area of the practice of ministry.
  • Establish, incorporate and apply effective research methodologies to advance existing professional practice.
  • Design a research question that explores an original and complex issue and provide possible solutions to the problem raised.
  • Communicate effectively complex ideas, original knowledge and proposed solutions to peers and general audiences.
  • Provide creative responses to the contemporary challenges and new developments in research and scholarship in the field of practical ministry.

Ability

  • Articulate new questions or issues and apply the knowledge and skills developed within the selected research field to develop original and appropriate solutions.
  • Work independently, responsibly and with the level of professionalism  expected of an expert in the selected research field.
  • Effectively design, implement and communicate a major thesis in the selected research field to contribute original knowledge and expertise to peers and general audiences.
  • An advanced level of integrative reflection which will inform and enhance their professional ministry practice.

Admission Criteria

Entry Requirements

DMin Admission Criteria

Applicants to this degree must have completed a prior research thesis of at least 12,000 words. In some cases, peer reviewed publications (e.g. journal articles) may be accepted in lieu of a prior thesis.

Completion of an AQF Level 8 or above postgraduate qualification in theology or ministry (with research component), or equivalent with GPA at least 2.8.
OR
Graduates with an AQF Level 9 postgraduate qualification outside the field of theology or ministry must have completed at least 6 subjects in leadership and/or ministry, at least 4 subjects in bible and/or theology, at least a 20-credit point research project or research essay.

Leadership & Ministry Experience

Demonstrate a minimum of 5 years full-time leadership and/or ministry experience, or equivalent.

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

International Students – Language Requirements

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

Additional Information

Proof of Identity

Applicants must submit a proof of identity document for every application. Accepted forms of identification:

  • Birth Certificate
  • Passport (current and valid)

A supporting document must be submitted in addition to the identity document if an applicant’s name is different on their primary document. (Marriage Certificate or Change of Name Certificate)

Applicants may be required to provide a certified copy of their identity documents upon request.

AC does not accept a driver’s license or photo card as sufficient ID.

HDR Application Process

  • Get Started

    Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements. If you have any questions about our programs or would like to discuss a prospective research project further, please let the Graduate Research School know by contacting hdr.admin@ac.edu.au.

  • Produce a Research Proposal

    Complete the Research Proposal Template found here (see sample proposal 1and sample proposal 2). This proposal will need to be uploaded to your application form.

  • Contact a prospective Supervisor with your research proposal

    As part of preparing a research proposal, you are required to secure a Supervisor whose expertise aligns with your proposed project. To initiate this process, please contact potential supervisors directly via email to discuss the project. If you require assistance identifying or contacting a suitable supervisor, please reach out to hdr.admin@ac.edu.au.

  • Apply

    Once you have a proposal and a prospective supervisor, please complete the HDR Application for Admission form.

What people say

  • Darlene Zchech

    HopeUC, Senior Pastor and Worship Leader

    I’ve watched people around me grow in confidence, but it’s a confidence mixed with humility, and that’s been a direct result of studying in the environment at Alphacrucis.

  • Tim Biasetto

    Executive Pastor, Horizon Church

    My studies at Alphacrucis have made an immediate impact on my life and ministry. The quality courses and teaching have empowered me practically and enriched me personally, leaving me more passionate about God and his plans for my life.

  • Stephen Fogarty

    President Alphacrucis University College

    If anyone should be audacious in the pursuit of knowledge it should be Christians.

  • Helen Kobakian

    Senior Pastor, Lifehouse Church

    The Leadership course helps us to process new ideas and build to a greater understanding of our role as Christ-centred leaders.  I was encouraged to think analytically and given freedom to question assumptions in a safe forum. The class discussions are highly engaging and relevant.