ST AUGUSTINE COLLEGE OF SOUTH AFRICA
A Postgraduate Humanities and Theology Teaching and Research Institution
Are you passionate about faith and its role in promoting social justice? Are you seeking to deepen your knowledge and understanding of the subject of theology? Let’s dive into the benefits of a degree or short course in theology and how they can enhance your personal growth, career prospects, and spiritual journey.
By enrolling in a theology academic programme at St Augustine College, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of theological concepts, the development and purpose of doctrines, and how all are in pursuit of social justice. Regardless of your educational background, St. Augustine College has various programmes and short courses which will provide you with a solid foundation in theological thought, enabling you to engage in meaningful discussions and contribute to the ongoing discourse in the field.
The more one explores their own notion of faith and the theological traditions, spiritual practices, and history of religion the more deepens and enhances their own sense of faith. As St. Augustine College’s motto states, Intellige ut credas – Understand that You May Believe – and this is our Faculty of Theology’s goal: to deepen one’s understanding of faith so that it may grow. This growth also provides the impetus for St. Augustine’s commitment to social justice, which builds alongside your faith which carries over to providing you with a greater sense of purpose and connection to your community.
Theology is not about memorizing doctrines or creeds, rather it is the deep examination of the history, purpose, and reasons for theological teachings in the first place. It therefore requires one to gain critical thinking skills across disciplines: to do theology, one must be able to think like a historian, a philosopher, a counselor, or a teacher. In so doing, theology students familiarize themselves with various academic methods and disciplines. This not only expands one’s theological knowledge, but also how they engage concepts and ideas outside of theology; it creates a stronger critical mindset which can be applied to various issues.
Through rigorous study, research, and analysis, you’ll learn to evaluate complex ideas and apply logical reasoning to theological dilemmas. These critical thinking skills are highly transferable and can benefit you in various professional and personal contexts.
Many religious organizations, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations seek individuals with a strong theological background. Skills gained through studying theology, such as critical thinking, communication, and empathy, are highly valued in fields like counselling, social work, and public service. Furthermore, as an interdisciplinary subject, the skills learned from critical thinking, organizing and planning one’s research, and implementing that research will provide students with the capabilities to implement work-related projects, thereby increasing their path to higher employment or promotion.
St. Augustine College’s Faculty of Theology maintains an ecumenically Catholic ethos. This means that it is open to persons of all faiths (or none) and its classes are aimed at better understanding the foundations of faith and religion. Therefore a degree or short course in theology will help you engage in interfaith dialogue and foster greater understanding between different religious communities because, upon completion, one should better understand the nature of faith within humanity and how it expresses itself in different ways. This ability to bridge gaps and promote mutual respect is invaluable in promoting peace, harmony, and cooperation in our increasingly interconnected society.
Can I pursue a theology programme if I’m not affiliated with any religious institution?
Of course, you can. Theological education is open to individuals from diverse backgrounds and religious affiliations.
Are online programs available for obtaining a higher certificate in theology?
Yes, our blended learning approach allows students across the globe to enrol at St. Augustine College. Our classes are set up to be live-streamed and recorded, and we employ Google Classroom as our communication platform, so students online will have access to all resources necessary for them to complete their modules.
How long does it take to complete a programme in theology?
The duration of St. Augustine College’s programs in theology varies depending on the degree and whether the student elects part-time or full-time study. We offer a BTh as well as multiple postgraduate degrees, from Honours to DPhil. Short courses are also available, but note that these are not degree-granting courses, one only receives a certificate of participation.
How do I apply for a theological programme or know which one is right for me?
The best place to start is to look at our website or to contact Jean-Marie Uwimana or Kirstie Urquhart
What if I have studied religion and theology before, or have degrees in other fields, will my credits/degrees transfer?
Your previous education will be considered when you apply for a given program. We follow SAQA’s NQF ratings for prior degrees and module credits, but our aim is to put you in the best position to succeed at St. Augustine College and we will discuss with you which programme we think is right for you.
Undergraduate and Postgraduate students will receive a holistic theological education through our curricula and various programmes. So, why wait? Take the first step towards enriching your life and get your higher certificate today! St Augustine College of South Africa offers a range of accredited degrees and courses. View our website for more information on admission requirements and more.
