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Graduate Diploma in Biblical and Pastoral Studies

Complete all the modules, apply for postgraduate studies with us.

Graduate Diploma in Biblical and Pastoral Studies

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The GradDip in Biblical and Pastoral Studies serves as a bridging programme for entry to the MA in Theology. Regardless of your previous degree, this is a fast-track course that will provide the essential foundational theoretical knowledge to pursue postgraduate ministerial preparation.
Newbold’s comprehensive training with equip you with:
  • A deep and relevant knowledge of the biblical texts.
  • The ability to study the biblical texts independently with critical insight, accompanied by clear argumentation and communication.
  • Knowledge in all scholarly and vocational aspects of pastoral ministry in a Seventh-day Adventist context.
  • Recognition and development of personal values as you explore Christian perspectives in relation to other worldviews.
  • Critical and analytical skills necessary to progress to postgraduate study
  • Opportunities to gain real-world experience through placements in key areas such as pastoral ministry, psychology in ministry, and pastoral evangelism and discipleship.
Course details
Programme: Undergraduate

Course length: 1 year

Mode of study: Full-time or part-time

Mode of delivery: On-campus or online synchronous*

*a residential component may be required

Course tuition for academic year 2025/2026: £8,293

Tuition for the academic year for undergraduate students from within the UK, or who are considered Home students. For more details visit our Tuition and Fees page.
Scholarships:
Validated by: University of Wales Trinity Saint David (United Kingdom)
Intake: 27 January 2025 (part-time) | 1 September 2025 (full-time or part-time)
Application deadline: 3 January 2025 or 8 August 2025
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Graduate Diploma in Biblical and Pastoral Studies
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Comprehensive preparation
The GradDip in Biblical and Pastoral Studies course blends a profound study of the Bible with essential practical ministry experience under the support of passionate academic staff.
Modules
The Graduate Diploma in Biblical and Pastoral Studies programme includes modules in biblical, pastoral and theological pathways.
  • Pauline Epistles for PG (10 credits)
    Analyse the authorship, dating, composition, literary style and interpretation of the Pauline epistles within an early Christian context, deepening comprehension of exegesis with critical evaluation from an Adventist hermeneutical perspective.
  • Development of Seventh-day Adventist Theology (20 credits)
    Develop an understanding of the history, development, and theological roots of Adventist beliefs and doctrines with critical evaluation of doctrinal issues, the impact of fundamentalism, post-1920s, and subsequent trends, post-1956.
  • Pastoral Ministry for PG (20 credits)
    Preparatory studies, developing competencies for church leadership, execution of administrative tasks, carrying out pastoral care, teaching from the Bible, and applying homiletic theory to sermon construction, preparation and delivery.
  • Introduction to Greek for PG (20 credits)
    Acquire knowledge and develop the ability to translate introductory text from New Testament Greek into English, using linguistic and lexical resources to explain grammar, syntax and vocabulary.
  • Introduction to Hebrew for PG (20 credits)
    Acquire knowledge and develop the ability to translate introductory text from Hebrew to English, using linguistic and lexical resources to explain grammar, syntax and vocabulary found in biblical Hebrew.
  • Daniel & Revelation (20 credits)
    Undertake exegesis, translating selected portions of Daniel and Revelation, developing the ability to read, assess the significance and critically evaluate Old and New Testament apocalyptic literature from an Adventist perspective.
  • Biblical Theology (10 credits)
    Acquire knowledge of key aspects of biblical theology in the larger field of biblical, theological and pastoral studies, using established analysis techniques and enquiry within the biblical theology discipline.
  • Pastoral Psychology & Counselling for PG (10 credits)
    Develop the ability to critically appraise the biblical understanding of the human experience and the Christian approach to pastoral care, emphasising various disciplines within psychology, psychotherapy and counselling practice.
  • Intermediate Greek for PG (10 credits)
    Develop skills to translate seen/unseen New Testament text, applying exegetical principles to the canonical Gospels as historical and theological documents and as sources of information on Jesus’s life and teachings.
  • Intermediate Hebrew for PG (10 credits)
    Develop skills to translate seen and unseen Hebrew text from the Old Testament prophetic books, using biblical software to enhance the translation process and demonstrate intermediate-level knowledge of Hebrew syntax.

GradDip Timetables and Handbook

autumn GradDip timetable
GradDip Handbook
The GradDip in Biblical and Pastoral Studies will open the door to the Master of Arts in Theology.
MA Theology
Your campus experience
  • Courses that are shaped with mindful intention to serve as gateways to ministry in its various forms.
  • An intimate class setting, granting you 1:1 access to leading academic staff who are devoted to enriching your ministry, your life and your spiritual development
  • Daily campus fellowship through student programmes curated to evoke inspirational gathering and the meeting of similar minds.
  • Immersive yet subconscious forms of learning and worship that are interlaced into every day across academia and student life – it is those late-night dorm conversations, the sharing of perspectives across the halls that will shape you for life.
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Frequently asked questions
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Our admissions team are ready to help you answer your calling and answer any questions you may have along the way.
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Meet our academic staff
Learn more about our resident lecturers, their specialist areas and backgrounds. Our academic staff are devoted to preparing you for a lifelong role in ministry.
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