Diploma of Theology (CRICOS course code 083079A) is a Diploma delivered by Australian University of Theology Limited over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 course falls under the field of Society and Culture (0917 – Philosophy and Religious Studies), focusing on religious studies. It is taught entirely in Chinese (NFD), making it an ideal pathway for Mandarin-speaking international students seeking theological education in Australia. The provider, Australian University of Theology Limited (CRICOS 02650E), is a private institution dedicated to faith-based higher education. With two delivery locations – Brisbane School of Theology (Toowong, QLD) and Chinese Theological College Australia (Burwood, NSW) – students can choose to study in either Queensland or New South Wales. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy, your free resource hub, provides this information directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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This Diploma in Theology provides foundational knowledge in religious studies, including biblical studies, Christian theology, church history, and pastoral ministry. Students will develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and communication skills applicable to roles in religious organisations, community service, or further study. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with a broad understanding of theological concepts and their practical application in diverse cultural contexts. As a Diploma-level qualification, it typically requires completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) and offers a stepping stone to higher-level theology degrees. The course is delivered in Chinese, allowing native speakers to engage deeply with content while improving their academic English through immersion in an Australian tertiary environment.
The Diploma of Theology is a 1-year program (52 weeks as per the CRICOS register). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study components. The language of instruction is Chinese (NFD – Non-First Language? Actually NFD stands for 'Non-English as First Language'? Usually it's 'Non-English' but here it's Chinese as the medium). Students should expect full-time study commitment. As an on-campus course, it requires attendance at one of the two delivery locations. No online or distance options are indicated. This duration is standard for an AQF Level 5 Diploma in Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for this Diploma is A$27,096 per year, with non-tuition fees of A$300, bringing the estimated total to A$27,396. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Living costs vary by city – for example, in Brisbane or Sydney, weekly rent for a single person is approximately A$250–$450, plus groceries and transport of around A$150–$250 per week. The provider's website (www.actheology.edu.au) should be consulted for the most current fees, as these are indicative only and subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the official CRICOS register, but always confirm directly with the institution.
International students typically require an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) for Diploma-level entry. Prior academic qualifications – usually completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent – are expected. For this Chinese-taught course, Chinese language proficiency may also be assessed. Foundation or pathway programs are not offered as part of this course; however, students who do not meet direct entry requirements may consider alternative pathways through other providers. Always check the specific entry criteria with Australian University of Theology Limited before applying. English language requirements are set by the institution and may vary.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake part-time work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. Work is not a requirement of the course.
The Diploma of Theology is delivered at two campuses: Brisbane School of Theology in Toowong, Queensland (a suburb of Brisbane) and Chinese Theological College Australia in Burwood, New South Wales (a suburb of Sydney). Both cities have large international student populations and are well-served by public transport. Brisbane offers a more affordable cost of living compared to Sydney, while both have vibrant theological communities. Students can choose a location that fits their personal and financial circumstances. Each campus provides a supportive learning environment with access to library resources and student services.
To study this Diploma, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, and holding valid OSHC. From July 2023, work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion must be satisfied. Financial capacity requirements typically include evidence of funds for tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and OSHC (approximately A$600–$800 per year for single cover). Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the latest requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent if needed.
Choosing to study Theology in Australia involves several factors. First, ensure the institution is CRICOS-registered – as Australian University of Theology Limited is – to guarantee your qualification is recognised and your student rights are protected under the ESOS Act. Consider the language of instruction: this course is taught in Chinese, which may suit Mandarin speakers but could limit interaction with English-speaking peers. Location matters: Brisbane and Sydney have different living costs and climates. Brisbane is generally more affordable, while Sydney offers a larger city experience. Think about your career goals: a Diploma in Theology can lead to ministry roles, further study, or community work. Also, check if the provider offers pathway opportunities to higher degrees. Finally, budget for all expenses beyond tuition, including OSHC, housing, and personal costs. HeadStart Academy provides data on 26,433 courses across 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers to help you compare.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Theology at Australian University of Theology Limited: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Theology), and location (QLD or NSW). Verify the provider's CRICOS code (02650E) and course code (083079A). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit www.actheology.edu.au for application forms, entry requirements (including English tests), and deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and any other required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the institution will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for living costs. Consult a registered migration agent if needed.
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View the full Australian University of Theology Limited profile →
Diploma of Theology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian University of Theology Limited. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.