Postgraduate Theology Programmes
Postgraduate Qualifications
The Department offers a variety of postgraduate qualifications:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (PGDipTheol)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Subjects (PGDipArts)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Ministry (PGDipMin)
- Masters Degrees
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Research Topics
For more information on suggested research topics and ideas for postgraduate students within the Department visit:
Making An Application for Postgraduate Study
Entry Requirements
Entry to all postgraduate qualifications is on merit. The Department considers the details of applicants' prior studies and grades, and, in the case of research degrees, looks at the feasibility of their proposed area of study.
Research Proposals
To gain entry to a research MA, MTheol or a PhD, you need to supply the Department with a proposal indicating a focused theme, a methodology, and a suggested plan for the work. It is useful to include some initial bibliography with this proposal.
Applicants who are not Otago graduates must additionally supply certified copies of transcripts from all of their previous tertiary studies.
Admissions Committee
All postgraduate research applications are assessed by an admissions committee in the first instance, which makes recommendations to the University. This may take a number of weeks to go through the system, and applicants should bear this in mind when they consider possible dates for starting study.
When you can start
Studies for an MA or an MTheol normally commence at the start of one of the regular semesters; studies for a PhD can begin at any time of the year.
Applications Close
Entrance to the Master of Ministry and the Postgraduate Diploma in Ministry is at the start of the academic year. Applications must be completed by 10 December of the previous year.
Postgraduate Co-ordinators
If you wish to discuss your plans for postgraduate study towards a PGDipTheol, MTheol or PhD please contact the Postgraduate Co-ordinator for Theology, Dr Christopher Holmes.
If you are considering a PGDipMin or MMin, please contact the MMin Coordinator, Professor Paul Trebilco.
Scholarships and Funding
Applications for postgraduate scholarships and awards are a separate process from applications for entry to postgraduate studies.
Further Information
For further information, please download the departmental Postgraduate Information Guide [PDF, 115 KB]
Departmental Administrator
Email theology@otago.ac.nz
Tel 64 3 479 8901