Diploma in Theological Studies

About this programme

The Diploma in Theological Studies is a general program that is designed to provide theological enrichment and a solid base for lay ministry. Diploma seekers may use their study time as a retreat, taking time away from busy lives to seek further spiritual development. Others may choose to continue their studies and to pursue a master’s degree, having received substantial grounding in theological education. This is a 24-credit hour program. The Diploma may be completed in two full-time terms, with an average workload of 40 hours per week. The Diploma may be taken part-time over three years but must be completed by the end of the third year. In our experience, it is difficult for full-time students employed more than 10 hours a week to complete the Diploma program successfully in one year. The Diploma in Theological Studies can be completed either on campus or off-site through VST’s Zoom classroom technology. Students enrolled in the Diploma in Theological Studies program may petition to undertake a revised program of study that meets their specific needs and interests, while maintaining the integrity of a broadly-based general theological studies program. A student may petition after the successful completion of at least three core courses, and their petition must be accompanied by a letter of support from a faculty member. The petition will be considered by a sub-committee consisting of the Dean, the Registrar, and at least one additional member of the Admissions committee. All degree and diploma students are required to complete six hours of non-credit, no-fee research