Master of Theology (Research)

The Master of Theology (Research) has been designed for independent research in a field of specialisation within either the Department of Bible and Language, Department of Christian Thought and History, or Department of Ministry and Practice.

This course is offered as an entry-level research degree for theology graduates who aspire to develop their involvement in academia, and may provide sufficient qualifications for teaching in some theological settings. As an entry-level research degree it is also a valuable way to determine your interest in and suitability for advanced independent research, providing beneficial grounding for doctoral research.

Enrolment in this Higher Degree by Research degree entails application processes which require approval by both Ridley and the Australian College of Theology.

The Master of Theology (Research) is an AQF Level 9 Masters Research award.

Graduates of the Master of Theology (Research) will be able to:

Knowledge

1. Demonstrate up-to-date knowledge and depth of understanding of Theology in AT LEAST ONE of the fields of ‘Bible and Languages,’ ‘Christian Thought and History,’ and ‘Ministry and Practice.’

2. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of research principles and methods used in AT LEAST ONE of the fields of ‘Bible and Languages,’ ‘Christian Thought and History,’ and ‘Ministry and Practice.’

Skills

3. Apply advanced cognitive and technical skills in the design and execution of a specialised research project that makes a contribution to knowledge, AND/OR professional practice, AND/OR creative practice.

4. Analyse, synthesise, evaluate and critically reflect on complex information, problems and concepts and apply established theories in the context of an advanced body of knowledge and practice.

Application of knowledge and skills

5. Plan and conduct a substantial piece of research with creativity, initiative, autonomy, and accountability.

6. Communicate a coherent and sustained argument effectively and disseminate research findings to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Academic Qualifications:

• BTh/BMin Hons, with at least Lower Second Class Honours and at least a Credit grade in the thesis, OR
• BTh or BMin with an overall GPA ≥3.0 plus a Graduate Diploma with embedded RTP, with satisfactory completion of AS001: Research Methods, an overall GPA≥2.0 and ≥Credit in a major project of at least 12,000 words, OR
• BTh or BMin plus a Coursework Masters (such as MA(Th/Min) or MTS) with embedded RTP, with satisfactory completion of Research Methods, an overall GPA≥2.0 and ≥Credit in a major project of at least 12,000 words in FoR, OR
• MDiv or MMin with embedded RTP, with satisfactory completion of Research Methods, an overall GPA≥2.0 and ≥Credit in a major project of at least 12,000 words in FoR, OR
• MDiv or MMin with an overall GPA≥2.0 plus a Graduate Certificate with embedded RTP, with satisfactory completion of Research Methods, and ≥Credit in a major project of at least 12,000 words in FoR, OR
• MDiv or MMin with an overall GPA<2.0 plus a Coursework Masters (Such as MA(Th/Min) or MTS) with embedded RTP, with satisfactory completion of Research Methods, and ≥Credit in a major project of at least 12,000 words in FoR, OR
• MTS, MA(ChrStuds) or MML with an overall GPA≥2.0 with embedded RTP, with satisfactory completion of Research Methods, and ≥Credit in a major project of at least 12,000 words, OR
• MTS, MA(ChrStuds) or MML with an overall GPA<2.0 plus Graduate Certificate with embedded RTP, with satisfactory completion of Research Methods, and ≥Credit in a major project of at least 12,000 words, OR
• MPM with embedded RTP, with satisfactory completion of Research Methods and Confirmation of Candidature and an overall GPA≥2.0, OR
• Theological and non-theological qualifications deemed by the Research Committee to provide a suitable grounding for Master of Theology study.

Please contact the Ridley College Registry team for further information.

RTP = Research Training Pathway

FoR = Field of Research

Language Qualifications for NESB:

• IELTS 7.5 overall with a minimum of 7.5 in reading and writing, 7.0 in listening and 6.5 in speaking.

2024 domestic tuition fees are $2,784 for undergraduate units and $2,976 for graduate units.
2025 domestic tuition fees are $2,853 for undergraduate units and $3,162 for graduate units.

Current postgraduate research course (HDR) fees can be viewed on our fees page.

For more information about tuition fees including overseas student tuition fees, FEE-HELP, and payment information, view tuition fees.

• Doctor of Ministry
• Doctor of Philosophy