Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The honours year builds on core theological knowledge and focuses on advanced coursework and a substantial independent research project. Typical areas of study include:

• Biblical Studies: advanced exegesis of Old and New Testament texts, historical-critical methods and issues in biblical interpretation.
• Systematic Theology: contemporary and historical theological reflection on doctrine, revelation, Christology and ecclesiology.
• Practical and Pastoral Theology: pastoral care, liturgy, chaplaincy practice and the theology of ministry.
• Christian Ethics and Social Thought: moral theology, social justice, bioethics and ethical decision-making in public life.
• History of Christianity: major movements, councils and traditions shaping the church and its mission.
• Research Methods: research design, critical engagement with scholarship, theological hermeneutics and methodologies appropriate to an honours thesis.
• Honours Thesis / Major Research Project: an independent, supervised research dissertation that demonstrates the candidate's capacity for sustained theological argument and original contribution to a selected topic.

Delivery typically combines seminars, written assignments, presentations and regular supervision of the thesis. Students may be able to draw on interdisciplinary electives or cross-campus unit offerings depending on availability.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed an undergraduate degree in theology, ministry, religious studies or a closely related discipline with a strong academic record. Specific requirements commonly include:

• A completed bachelor-level qualification with sufficient coursework in theology or religious studies.
• An academic record at or above the equivalent of a credit/upper-second class average (or other institutional equivalent), as evidence of readiness for honours-level study.
• A research proposal or statement of intent outlining the proposed honours topic and research questions.
• References from academic staff or supervisors who can attest to the applicant's scholarly potential; some applicants may be invited to interview.

Applicants whose prior study is in a different but related field may be considered, sometimes with required bridging units to ensure adequate theological background before commencing the honours thesis.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Theology Honours have a range of pathways available to them. Common directions include:

• Ordained and lay ministry roles within churches and faith communities, including parish leadership and pastoral work.
• Chaplaincy in healthcare, education, defence or community settings.
• Teaching and education roles at secondary or tertiary levels (often combined with further qualifications or professional teacher accreditation).
• Policy, advocacy and program work with non-government organisations, charities and faith-based agencies.
• Further research and academic careers, including progression to a research master's or doctoral program.
• Community engagement and leadership roles where ethical reflection, cultural literacy and communication of complex ideas are valued.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University offers a theology program rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition while engaging respectfully with diverse Christian and interfaith perspectives. Students benefit from a dedicated theology faculty, access to specialised research centres and experienced supervisors for honours projects. The university emphasises a formation that integrates academic rigour with practical relevance, supporting placements and opportunities for pastoral experience. Additionally, ACU provides flexible study options across campuses and online units, and offers academic support and scholarship pathways for students progressing to higher degree research.