DIPLOMAS AND THE LICENTIATE OF THEOLOGY PROGRAMS
Diploma in Theology
The Faculty of Divinity at Trinity College offers a Diploma in Theology, a one-year post-baccalaureate program of studies with both breadth in general theological study and concentration in a single area of interest, e.g., ethics, pastoral counselling, feminist theology, interreligious dialogue, Anglican studies, etc.
Ten credits are required for this diploma. There must be at least one credit in each TST department (Biblical, Historical, Pastoral, and Theological) and at least four credits in the area of concentration. See course listings above.
This program may be undertaken full or part time and has no time limit. Credits earned in this program may later be transferred to an M.Div. or M.T.S. program.
Diploma in Ministry
The Diploma in Ministry is designed to allow persons holding an academic degree in theology (e.g. M.A., M.T.S.) to achieve equivalency to a Master of Divinity degree in order to quality as candidates for ordination. It is normally a ten credit program.
The requirements for the diploma should normally be completed in one calendar year beginning in mid-April. However the course of studies is designed to be remedial so that more than ten credits may, in some cases, be required. Academic requirements include:
- A Supervised Field Education Internship normally undertaken over 26 weeks (September - April) at 20 hours per week. (4 credits)
- A unit of Supervised Pastoral Education undertaken full time in a CAPPE (Canadian Association for Pastoral Practice and Education) approved program. This unit of education is normally undertaken in the Spring (April-June) prior to the academic year of study for the Diploma (2 credits)
- Four or more courses chosen in order to fill gaps in the student's previous education. Consultation with a faculty advisor is essential in these course choices. (4 credits)
Diploma (and Certificate) in Ministry for Church Musicians
This ten credit program of Divinity Studies is designed for those engaged in or aspiring to the ministry of church musician. Its purpose is to provide context for music and musicians in the theology and mission of the church.
Entrance requirements include an undergraduate degree or equivalent, with demonstrated musical competence. In extraordinary circumstances those with strong musical qualifications who do not meet the formal entrance requirements may be admitted to the program. Upon completion, however, they would receive a Certificate rather a Diploma.
A specific course of studies will be determined in consultation with the Basic Degree Director and the Professor of Church Music considering previous studies, experience, and areas of interest. A two credit independent study will normally be included among the ten credits.
Licentiate of Theology
Non-degree students may be awarded the L.Th. upon the completion of twenty credits, including such required courses from the M.Div. program as the Teaching Staff may require of them, given their specific purposes in pursuing theological studies. A previous bachelor's degree or equivalent is not a requirement of the L.Th.
Certificates and Diploma in Orthodox and Eastern Christian Studies
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Intended student body
- those seeking a Masters level degree in Orthodox studies;
- degree students who wish to include some knowledge of Orthodox tradition in their own course of studies;
- adult learners who seek a mature and rich knowledge of Orthodox tradition on a non-credit basis.
With permission, senior undergraduates are also welcome.
The Diploma requires 14 credits and is available to those holding a University degree.
The Certificate requires 7 credits, the Honours Certificate requires 14 credits. Certificates are available for those who do not hold a University degree.
Students from such a Masters or Certificate programme should be very well equipped for leadership roles in their churches —and should have a very solid foundation for future seminary studies, if desired. Students who take some courses will have a well-grounded grasp of Orthodox theology.
The Certificate in Diaconal Studies is designed to equip persons preparing for diaconal ministry and those already engaged in it.
While courses in the Basic Degree division are taught at a post-baccalaureate level, mature applicants with life experience that has prepared them for theological study at a graduate level, who have not completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent, will be considered for admission as Special (Non-degree) students on probation until they have satisfactorily completed ten credits at the Toronto School of Theology.
Students may enrol full-time or part-time. The requirements for the certificate may be completed in one calendar year. There is no time limit on the completion of the requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants holding a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized university or college, having achieved at least a B- average, will be considered for admission to a Diploma program.
Completed application forms, official transcripts of all post-secondary education, three letters of reference, and a résumé or personal history should be sent to the College by March 31 of the year in which admission is sought. If places are available, applications will be accepted after this date. Petitions for advanced standing or transfer credit should be made at the time of application. When an application has been approved, an admissions interview is arranged with the Dean and Director of Basic Degree Studies.
TST Course Listings
A listing of courses can be found through the Toronto School of Theology Course Catalogue.
