Stellenbosch University

Bachelor of Divinity

Human and Social Studies - Religious and Ethical Foundations of Society

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Purpose and Rationale

The Master of Theology and Hermeneutics Programme aims to achieve the following objectives:

  1. Provide students with an understanding of the interconnectedness of hermeneutics and theology, and equip them with knowledge on the implications of Christian faith for ministry within diverse contexts.

  2. Equip students with a sophisticated knowledge and understanding of theology and hermeneutics to effectively navigate the complexities of ministry in a scientific and academic manner.

  3. Train students in research methods and methodology applicable to the six different fields within theology:

    • Old Testament Studies
    • New Testament Studies
    • Systematic Theology
    • Ecclesiology
    • Practical Theology
    • Missiology

  4. Develop intellectual, communicative, and hermeneutical skills in ministers, enabling them to confidently serve as Christian leaders and pastors in various contexts and during personal and relational crises.

  5. Build the capacity of ministers, pastors, and caregivers to excel in the following roles:

    • Preacher
    • Caregiver
    • Christian leader
    • Minister

Outcomes

  1. GENERIC / CRITICAL CROSS FIELD OUTCOMES An understanding of the interdisciplinary character of theology and the relevance of hermeneutics for ministry The ability to operate as a Christian leader within a local faith community and various social and cultural communities Sensitivity for the needs of people and ability to care for those in need and exposed to different situations of conflict and suffering The development of critical and analytical thinking and of communication skills The development and formation of a theological understanding of spirituality
  2. GENERAL OUTCOMES A thorough understanding of the identity of Christian theology and its link to congregational issues and community development A thorough understanding of the dynamics of ministry and worship Conversational and counselling skills for pastoral care and the Christian outreach to families, marriages, people suffering from different diseases, people in hospitals, youths, community issues such as reconciliation, justice and poverty The ability to do exegesis of the Bible, to apply the principles of theological hermeneutics to the interpretation of the Bible, to effectively communicate the gospel The development of skills for conflict management and conflict resolution The competence to operate as a Christian leader, minister and pastoral caregiver in different congregational and social environments
  3. SPECIFIC OUTCOMES The graduate will have: Knowledge of the connection between theology and hermeneutics An understanding of the functioning of congregations An understanding of denominational identity within historic and cultural settings The graduate will be able to### Preach, to conduct a sermon and to operate as a liturgist in the worship of the congregation Partake in inter-religious dialogue and ecumenical debate Apply cross-cultural communication to different missionary settings The graduate will demonstrate: The competence to link church policy and ethics to social and ecological issues/questions The competence to operate as a pastor, a youth worker and a catechist An understanding of a mature approach to life issues as connected to Christian spirituality and faith Adherence to academic integrity and ethics as determined by Christian theology Mastery of theoretical subject matter within a comprehensive knowledge of ministry Mastery of advanced theory and its application to ministry Capacity for independent study via the completion of a research essay (20%)

Assessment Criteria

The assessment used for the BD ensures that the purpose of the qualification is achieved through a variety of formative and summative methods. These include simulations, verbatim, supervision, written and oral examinations. Competence in outcomes is demonstrated when students can correlate information and concepts learned across modules to propose valid solutions for theoretical and practical problems in ministry and leadership.

Specific outcomes are assessed through written tests in different modules, group evaluations, and the writing of a research essay on a topic chosen from one of the six fields in theology. Additionally, written essays and smaller assignments are used to assess self-learning ability. Practical work under supervision, along with the writing of counseling reports and verbatim, also contribute to the integrated assessment approach.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
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Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University
Description
Stellenbosch University is a public research university located in Stellenbosch, South Africa. It is one of the oldest universities in the country, established in 1918. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and social sciences, science, engineering, health sciences, and business. Stellenbosch University is known for its high academic standards and research output, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability. It is also recognized for its multicultural and inclusive campus environment, attracting students from diverse backgrounds both locally and internationally.
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.