Home Study at ACA Higher Ed Courses Master of Arts

Master of Arts

Description: The Master of Arts is suited to those wishing to pursue study in ministry but already have a ministry or non-ministry related degree. The Master of Arts program is considered one of the more practical higher ed courses. Students enrolled in the Master of Arts program may exit after a year with their graduate diploma or 6 months with their graduate certificate.

Entry requirements: undergraduate degree and 3 years of ministry practice

Duration: 1.5 years full-time, 4.5 years part-time

Mode: distance/online (with optional* facilitation attendance)

Fees: ACOM's fees are listed on page 9 of their post-graduate handbook
(note: additional administration fees listed on pages 15-17 of their higher education handbook)

* Some practical subject facilitations are compulsory. See page 7 of ACOM's post-graduate handbook

Frequently asked questions

What course should I take?

If you are interested in career-ministry (like being a pastor or missionary) you need to follow the higher education pathway and apply for a course like the Bachelor of Theology.

If you are interested in getting practical training that you can implement in your local church you should apply for a course in vocational studies like the Diploma in Christian Ministry and Theology.

What’s the difference between a graduate and an undergraduate qualification?

An undergraduate qualification, such as the Bachelor of Theology, does not require the applicant to have achieved a prior degree in order to study it. Graduate or Post Graduate qualifications can only be undertaken by those already possessing a degree.

I have a previous non-ministry degree, can I get any credit towards study at ACA?

Yes! A non-ministry degree will take 6 months off your Bachelor of Theology or give you the opportunity to begin the Master of Arts program.

Where do I start if I have no previous qualifications?

There are three entry points for someone with no previous qualifications. You could go the vocational route and begin a Certificate IV or Diploma in Christian Ministry and Theology, or you could go the higher education route and start your Bachelor of Theology.

Do vocational courses give me any credit towards higher ed courses?

Yes! If you have completed a Diploma in Christians Ministry and Theology you will get 1 year of credit toward a Bachelor of Theology.

How much time should I allocate for my studies?

For vocational courses you should allow roughly 3.5 hours per subject per week. For higher ed courses you should allow roughly 8.5 hours per subject per week.

Who is ACOM and why does the Alliance College partner with them?

The Australian College of Ministries (ACOM) is the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) from which the ACA gets its accreditation to offer vocational courses. The ACA, however, is not an accredited higher ed provider and so we have further developed our partnership with ACOM so as to channel students to them who wish to pursue higher ed studies.