Higher Certificate in Theology (HCert Theol)
As the church continues to grow across Africa, there is an urgent need for well-equipped leaders. The Higher Certificate in Theology is designed to help meet this need. It offers a solid foundation in biblical, theological, and pastoral training, equipping students with the knowledge and practical tools to serve faithfully in congregational ministry or to lead with wisdom in their community.
Full-time: 1 year ׀ Part-time: 3 years ׀ NQF Level 5 ׀ SAQA ID 98789
Overview
The Higher Certificate in Theology (HCert) provides foundational theological and pastoral training for those preparing to serve in church ministry, including pastoral work and children’s ministry.
The programme consists of several core biblical and theological modules (Christian Doctrine, Biblical Theology, Old and New Testament Studies and Church History), and a choice of electives with practical orientation. An HCert graduate will be able to:
- Interpret basic Biblical passages, being sensitive to form, content and context.
- Prepare a lesson or sermon on a passage and communicate it effectively, either orally or in a written format.
- Articulate the main ideas of the doctrine of the Church and the character of a church community.
- Understand the nature of church work and possess skills in teaching, counselling and small group leadership.
- Attain a basis for continuation of either formal or informal theological education.
While studying my Higher Certificate in Theology, I realised that many of the women in my home church in Kwa-Zulu Natal listen to the Bible, but do not understand it for themselves. My studies are equipping me to share correct doctrine, so that I can go back and start Bible studies in order to help these women learn more about Scripture. This will help them know God better and grow in their faith.
Sengazi Ngcobo, HCert Theol
Who Should Apply?
The Higher Certificate is well suited to those serving in lay ministry and key members of a local church seeking to be equipped to share Jesus in their workplace and community. For those intending on pursuing undergraduate degree-level studies (in any field), the programme not only gives an excellent grounding for further studies, but also provides training in the disciplines and skills for higher education studies, including the use of technology.
Admission Requirements
National Senior Certificate, or the equivalent thereof, with a minimum of 30% in English Language (Per Government Gazette No. 751, 11 July 2008). Admission through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is permitted for a maximum of 10% of the enrolment for any year.
For entry into this programme, international students are required to meet the admission requirements outlined by USAF on their website.
English Proficiency
The easiest way to provide evidence of your English proficiency is by completing the affordable online National Benchmark Test. Book your test online, select the Academic Literacy Test, and send your scores to us along with your application. See here for more information.
The minimum acceptable English Language requirement for undergraduate courses is an overall score of 6.0 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and 5.0 for the written element. This is equivalent to 213 in the computerised Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) test, 550 in the written TOEFL test, or 79-80 in the internet-based TOEFL test.
Foreign students who have English as a second language may be required to complete a TOEFL test (or similar) to prove proficiency in English at a level suitable for academic study.
Course Structure
The Higher Certificate in Theology consists of 8 core modules (72 credits) plus a selection of elective modules totalling a minimum of 48 credits. Guidance will be given to students on appropriate elective module choices.
Please note:
- If numbers are insufficient, certain electives may not run every year.
- English tuition is also provided as elective modules for students whose English competency is weak, as determined by a competency test.
- The Higher Certificate does not carry any transferable credits, for those seeking to continue with the Bachelor of Theology undergraduate degree.
Download the Higher Certificate in Theology course structure
Higher Certificate Fees
Higher Certificate Bursaries
Applicants who have been accepted into the Higher Certificate programme for full-time studies may apply for bursary assistance. Bursaries are awarded on a needs-only basis and are usually only partial awards. GWC regrets that bursary funding cannot be offered to every bursary applicant.
International Students
GWC welcomes students into its full-time courses. For more information, check our Prospectus