Graduate Diploma

Purpose

The Graduate Diploma (Grad Dip) is a 30-credit graduate level program designed to equip believers for more effective Christian service. The program can be completed within one academic year or it can be extended over several years for those studying part-time.

The student may choose to complete a Grad Dip in Christian Ministry for broad exposure to a wide range of classes or choose a more focused Grad Dip. The student must select an area of emphasis from the following:

  • Biblical Studies
  • Intercultural Studies
  • Leadership Studies
  • Pastoral Counselling
  • Theological Studies
  • Christian Ministry

Target Group

The Grad Dip is appropriate for adults of all ages who would like additional equipping in order to serve more effectively in their faith communities. This flexible program can meet the needs of working adults who minister in the marketplace or their community, those changing careers and entering full-time ministry, people who desire to increase their effectiveness as they serve in local ministries, those preparing to serve in cross-cultural ministries, and individuals on a sabbatical.

Admissions Requirements

The individual applying for the Grad Dip must follow the usual EAST application process and meet the Grad Dip admissions standards. Both of these are stated in the “Admissions” section of this Prospectus. Additional admissions information for international students is explained in the “International Students” section of the Prospectus.

Program Explanation and Distribution Requirements

Required courses: (9 credits)

  • AD500 Orientation to Theological Studies (NC)
  • AD501 Evangelism Seminar (NC)
  • AD510 Academic Research and Writing (2 credits)
  • BS510 Inductive Bible Study Method (3 credits)
  • IS510 World Missions (2 credits)
  • AD530 Mentoring Group (2 credits – one credit per semester)

Selected Courses: (Select three) From the five categories listed below, select one course from three categories (9 credits):

  • Biblical Studies course – either BS, OT, or NT (3 credits)
  • Intercultural Studies course (3 credits)
  • Leadership Studies course (3 credits)
  • Education & Formation Studies course (3 credits)
  • Theological Studies course (3 credits)

Emphasis Courses: (12 credits)

  • For a Grad Dip in Christian Ministry, the student selects twelve (12) additional credits of ministry-related classes from a variety of course categories.
  • For a Grad Dip in a specialized area of emphasis, the twelve (12) credits would be selected from the area of emphasis.

Course Description Information

For further information and description of each of the Grad Dip courses, refer to the appropriate section of the “Course Descriptions” section of this Prospectus.

Time Limit for Degree Completion

A student has a maximum of four (4) years to complete a Grad Dip from the date of matriculation at EAST.

Graduation Requirements

The following are requirements in order to graduate with a Grad Dip:

  • Completion of all course work (30 credits) with a grade of C- or higher
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Demonstrate character and ministry skills appropriate for an EAST graduate
  • Approval by the faculty
  • Payment of all fees