Doctor of Ministry

Overview

The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) is a professional doctoral degree that focuses on the advanced study and practice of ministry. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to excel in ministerial leadership and to contribute to the advancement of the field.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the DMin program, applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

• An Australian undergraduate degree with Honours (Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level 8) at a minimum level of Second Class Division A (Distinction average) or international equivalent
• A Masters degree by research successfully completed in a relevant discipline or related field
• A Masters degree by coursework with appropriate research training, including a substantial component of original research, successfully completed in a relevant discipline or related field
• A qualification equivalent to AQF level 8 or 9 completed to at least distinction average with appropriate research training, including a substantial component of original research, in a relevant discipline or related field
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants with professional experience or cultural expertise in Indigenous Knowledges or kinship connections and who demonstrate capacity to undertake an independent research project on Indigenous Knowledges
• Other professional experience demonstrating research training equivalent to AQF level 8 or 9 and capacity to undertake an independent research project

Completion Requirements

To complete the DMin, students must complete 240 credit points, consisting of:

1. 60 credit points from Specified Units (Part A)
2. 180 credit points from Research Units (Part B)

Specified Units

The following units are required for Part A:

• THDM700: Pastoral Ministry and Care of the Person (20 credit points)
• THDM701: Ministry in the Church (20 credit points)
• THDM702: Power, Leadership and Authority (20 credit points)

Research Units

The following units are required for Part B:

• DMTH701: Thesis Full Time (180 credit points)
• DMTH702: Thesis Part Time (180 credit points)

Course Map

The course map outlines the structure and progression of the DMin program. Students can choose to commence in Research Term A, either full-time or part-time.

Full-Time Course Map

• Year 1: Research Terms A, B, C, and D
  • Thesis Units: DMTH701 (180 credit points)
  • Specified Units: THDM700 (20 credit points) in Research Term B, THDM701 (20 credit points) in Research Term D
• Year 2: Research Terms A, B, C, and D
  • Thesis Units: DMTH701 (180 credit points)
  • Specified Units: THDM702 (20 credit points) in Research Term B
• Year 3: Research Terms A, B, C, and D
  • Thesis Units: DMTH701 (180 credit points)

Part-Time Course Map

• Year 1: Research Terms A, B, C, and D
  • Thesis Units: DMTH702 (180 credit points)
  • Specified Units: THDM700 (20 credit points) in Research Term B, THDM701 (20 credit points) in Research Term D
• Year 2: Research Terms A, B, C, and D
  • Thesis Units: DMTH702 (180 credit points)
  • Specified Units: THDM702 (20 credit points) in Research Term B
• Year 3-6: Research Terms A, B, C, and D
  • Thesis Units: DMTH702 (180 credit points)

Progression Requirements

Student progression requirements for Higher Degrees are outlined under Regulation 10 (Pursuance of Candidature) of the Higher Degree Research Regulations.

Advanced Standing

Candidates will not be given advanced standing except in cases of institutional transfer between doctoral programs.

Other Requirements

International applicants need to meet the English Language Proficiency requirements as published by the University. The course entry requirements are subject to change, and students should refer to the University's website for the most up-to-date information.

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

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Overview:

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a leading Catholic university in Australia, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its strong commitment to faith and values, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

ACU provides a comprehensive range of student services, including:

Academic Skills Development:

The Academic Skills Unit offers support in developing essential study skills, academic writing, referencing, maths and numeracy, and exam preparation.

Campus Ministry:

Provides spiritual guidance and support to students.

Career Development Services:

Offers career advice, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Connect2Uni:

Provides support and resources for first-year students.

Counselling Services:

Offers confidential counselling and support for students' mental health and wellbeing.

Disability Support:

Provides tailored support for students with disabilities.

Medical Centres:

Offers healthcare services on campus.

Student Advocacy:

Provides support and guidance to students facing academic or personal challenges.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Services:

Offers dedicated support and resources for Indigenous students.

Student Veterans Support Program:

Provides support and resources for students who have served in the military.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

ACU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience, with opportunities for students to:

Join clubs and societies:

Participate in a wide range of clubs and societies catering to diverse interests.

Engage in creative and cultural activities:

Participate in various events and activities, including arts, music, and theatre.

Develop leadership skills:

Take advantage of leadership opportunities within clubs, societies, and student associations.

Participate in ACU Sport:

Access gyms, fitness classes, and sports facilities, and join sports clubs and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Catholic values and ethics:

ACU's commitment to faith and values creates a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Comprehensive student services:

Provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed.

Vibrant campus life:

Offers a diverse range of clubs, activities, and events to enhance the student experience.

Focus on practical skills and real-world application:

Emphasizes the development of practical skills and knowledge relevant to future careers.

Strong reputation and rankings:

ACU is consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia.

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Academic Programs:

ACU offers a wide range of academic programs across its four faculties:

Faculty of Education and Arts:

Offers programs in education, arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Faculty of Health Sciences:

Offers programs in nursing, medicine, psychology, and allied health.

Faculty of Law and Business:

Offers programs in law, business, and economics.

Faculty of Theology and Philosophy:

Offers programs in theology, philosophy, and religious studies.

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Other:

ACU has campuses located in Ballarat, Blacktown, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, North Sydney, Rome, and Strathfield. It also offers a range of online programs through ACU Online.