University of Divinity

University of Divinity: Theology, Ministry, Philosophy and Professional Study

The University of Divinity is a distinctive Australian collegiate university specialising in theology, ministry, philosophy, spirituality and related disciplines. It offers study from diploma level through doctoral research and welcomes both domestic and overseas students.

Rather than operating as a conventional single-campus university, the University of Divinity is organised as a collegiate university. Students join the University through one of its Colleges or Schools, which become their primary learning community and provide course advice and student support.

What is University of Divinity Known For?

The University specialises in:

• Theology
• Ministry
• Philosophy
• Spirituality
• Spiritual care
• Spiritual direction
• Counselling
• Education
• Leadership
• Professional supervision
• Research

Its courses are particularly suited to students interested in theological scholarship, ministry, Christian traditions, spiritual care, education, counselling and related professional fields.

Theology & Ministry

Theology and ministry are at the heart of the University's academic offering.

Students can explore:

• Christian theology
• Biblical studies
• Ministry
• Pastoral studies
• Religious studies
• Christian traditions
• Church and community leadership

Programs are available at undergraduate, postgraduate and research levels.

Philosophy

Students interested in philosophy can pursue study focused on:

• Philosophical traditions
• Ethics
• Critical thinking
• Philosophy of religion
• Contemporary philosophical questions

The University also offers postgraduate and research pathways in philosophy.

Spirituality & Spiritual Care

University of Divinity offers specialised study in areas including:

• Spirituality
• Spiritual care
• Spiritual direction
• Pastoral care

These areas can be relevant to students seeking professional or vocational roles involving spiritual and pastoral support.

Counselling

Counselling is another area available within the University's broader academic portfolio.

Students can develop knowledge and skills relevant to:

• Counselling practice
• Human wellbeing
• Professional helping relationships
• Pastoral and community contexts

The exact professional accreditation or registration implications depend on the specific course selected.

Education

The University offers education-related programs alongside its theological and humanities disciplines.

Students can explore areas connected with:

• Education
• Religious education
• Teaching
• Educational leadership
• Professional development

Leadership & Professional Supervision

Students can also study leadership and professional supervision, developing skills relevant to:

• Organisational leadership
• Community leadership
• Professional practice
• Supervision
• Reflective practice

Academic Environment

University of Divinity promotes a small-class learning environment, allowing students to engage closely with lecturers and fellow students. The University specifically highlights small class sizes as an opportunity for students to connect with lecturers and discuss contemporary issues.

Depending on the course, students may participate in:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Research
• Academic discussion
• Online learning
• Hybrid learning
• Independent study

Flexible & Online Study

Many University of Divinity units can be studied through online or hybrid delivery.

The University states that all courses can be studied online by enrolling in available online units, although the availability of specific units varies by semester.

For international students studying in Australia on a Student Visa 500, however, specific restrictions apply: no more than one-third of the course can be delivered online or by distance learning, and students must generally undertake at least one non-online unit in each study period.

Collegiate Learning Model

One of the most distinctive features of the University is its College-based structure.

Students choose a Home College based partly on:

• Academic interests
• Location
• Christian tradition
• Available courses

Each College provides its own learning community, while students can also enrol in appropriate units offered by other University Colleges.

Research Opportunities

The University offers Higher Degree by Research programs, including master's and doctoral-level research.

The School of Graduate Research supports research students and their supervisors in a structured research environment.

Research students can pursue advanced work in areas connected with:

• Theology
• Philosophy
• Ministry
• Religious studies
• Spirituality
• Related humanities disciplines

International Student Admissions

University of Divinity welcomes overseas students and provides dedicated support throughout their studies.

International students must:

• Select an appropriate course
• Choose a Home College
• Meet academic requirements
• Meet English-language requirements
• Attend an admissions interview
• Submit the required application and supporting documents

The admissions interview is compulsory and is designed to help applicants choose an appropriate course and plan their study.

International Student Support

Overseas students receive support including:

• Compulsory orientation
• Library orientation
• English-language assistance
• Academic skills assistance
• Course advice
• Course planning
• Pastoral care
• Referrals to relevant services

The University describes its overseas student environment as a safe, enjoyable and rewarding place to study.

Application Process

The general application process involves:

• Select a course
• Select a College or School
• Attend an admissions interview
• Complete the required application forms
• Submit supporting documents
• Receive an admission decision and welcome information if successful.

International coursework applicants can commence in Semester 1 or Semester 2, subject to the relevant application deadlines.

Professional & Career Preparation

Because of its specialised academic focus, career outcomes are particularly relevant to fields connected with:

• Ministry
• Religious education
• Theology
• Chaplaincy
• Pastoral care
• Counselling
• Community services
• Education
• Leadership
• Academic research

Professional outcomes depend heavily on the qualification and any additional professional accreditation or training required for the intended career.

Quick Facts

• University: University of Divinity
• Country: Australia
• Type: Collegiate university
• Study levels: Undergraduate, postgraduate and research
• Major areas: Theology, Ministry, Philosophy, Spirituality, Counselling, Education and Leadership
• Learning model: College-based and personalised
• Online study: Available for many units
• International students: Yes
• Research: Master's and doctoral programs
• Key feature: Specialised theological and related education

Q. Is University of Divinity good for international students?

A. It can be a strong choice for international students specifically interested in theology, ministry, philosophy, spirituality, counselling, education or related fields, particularly those who value a smaller, college-based learning environment.

Q. What is University of Divinity known for?

A. It specialises in theology and ministry, philosophy, spirituality, spiritual care and related disciplines, with additional programs in counselling, education, leadership and professional supervision.

Q. Does University of Divinity offer online study?

A. Yes. Many units are available online or in hybrid formats, although availability varies by semester and international students on Student Visa 500 are subject to Australian online-study restrictions.

Q. Does University of Divinity offer research degrees?

A. Yes. The University offers Higher Degree by Research pathways, including master's and doctoral-level research programs.

Student Life at University of Divinity

University of Divinity offers a distinctive student experience built around its collegiate structure, where students become part of a particular College or School while studying within the wider University community.

Campus & Facilities

Depending on the College, students can access:

• Libraries and study spaces
• Academic facilities
• Research resources
• Student support services
• Chaplaincy and pastoral support
• Online learning facilities
• Community and social spaces

The University's College-based model means the exact campus environment and facilities vary between Colleges.

Student Community

Students can participate in:

• Academic discussions
• College activities
• Cultural events
• Community activities
• Student groups
• Religious and spiritual activities
• Research communities

The smaller learning environment allows students to develop close relationships with academics and fellow students.

International Student Experience

University of Divinity provides dedicated support for overseas students.

Support includes:

• Orientation
• Library orientation
• Academic skills support
• English-language assistance
• Course planning
• Academic advice
• Pastoral care
• Referrals to relevant support services

International students can also become part of their chosen College community, providing opportunities to connect with other students and staff.

Q. What is student life like at University of Divinity?

A. Student life is centred around a smaller, College-based community with close academic interaction, pastoral support, academic discussion and opportunities for community and cultural activities.

University of Divinity Courses – Theology, Ministry, Philosophy and More

University of Divinity has a specialised academic portfolio rather than the broad range of disciplines found at large comprehensive universities.

Popular Subject Areas

Theology & Ministry

Students can explore:

• Theology
• Biblical studies
• Ministry
• Pastoral studies
• Religious studies
• Christian traditions

Philosophy

Programs can cover:

• Philosophy
• Ethics
• Philosophy of religion
• Critical thinking
• Philosophical traditions

Spirituality

Students can study:

• Spirituality
• Spiritual direction
• Spiritual care
• Pastoral care

Counselling

Students can explore counselling-related study focused on:

• Counselling practice
• Human wellbeing
• Helping relationships
• Pastoral and community contexts

Education

Study areas can include:

• Education
• Religious education
• Teaching
• Educational leadership
• Professional development

Leadership & Professional Supervision

Students can develop skills in:

• Leadership
• Professional supervision
• Reflective practice
• Organisational and community leadership

Practical Learning

Depending on the selected course, students may participate in:

• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Research
• Academic discussions
• Independent study
• Practical ministry experiences
• Online learning
• Hybrid learning

The exact practical component depends on the qualification and College.

Research Opportunities

University of Divinity offers Higher Degree by Research opportunities, including master's and doctoral research.

Research students work with supervisors within the University's specialist research environment.

Research areas can include:

• Theology
• Philosophy
• Ministry
• Religious studies
• Spirituality
• Related humanities disciplines

Careers & Professional Development

Because University of Divinity has a specialised academic focus, career pathways are particularly connected to:

Ministry & Religious Services

• Ministry
• Pastoral work
• Chaplaincy
• Religious leadership

Education

• Religious education
• Teaching
• Educational leadership

Community & Support

• Counselling
• Spiritual care
• Community services

Academic & Research

• Research
• Teaching
• Higher education
• Academic scholarship

Professional accreditation and additional qualifications may be required for some careers.

Placement & Professional Experience

Depending on the program, students may gain practical experience through:

• Ministry placements
• Pastoral experience
• Professional supervision
• Community engagement
• Practicum
• Research projects

The requirements vary by course.

Accommodation

Accommodation availability varies according to the student's chosen College and location.

Students can explore:

• College accommodation
• Student residences
• Private rentals
• Shared housing

International students should check accommodation options with their chosen College before arrival.

Online & Flexible Study

Many University of Divinity units can be completed online.

However, international students studying in Australia on a Student Visa 500 must comply with Australian restrictions on online study. The University states that no more than one-third of the course can be delivered online or by distance learning and students generally need at least one non-online unit in each study period.

Q. Does University of Divinity offer internships?

A. Practical experience depends on the selected program. Some courses can include ministry, pastoral, community or professional experiences, while research degrees focus primarily on advanced research.

Q. Does University of Divinity provide career support?

A. Students receive academic and course-planning support, while career pathways are closely connected to the specialised field of their qualification.

Q. Does University of Divinity offer accommodation?

A. Accommodation varies between Colleges and locations. Students should check availability with their chosen College.

Q. Can international students study online?

A. Yes. Many units are available online or in hybrid formats, but international students on a Student Visa 500 must comply with Australian restrictions on online study.

University of Divinity Fees – Tuition Costs, Scholarships and Financial Support for International Students

The University of Divinity has course-specific tuition fees. For 2026, the university states that tuition fees are the same for domestic and overseas students, although overseas applicants pay a separate application fee.

2026 Tuition Fees

Study / Course	2026 Indicative Fee
Standard undergraduate unit	AUD 2,184
Standard postgraduate unit	AUD 3,384
Master of Theological Studies	AUD 20,304 per year
Master of Theology	AUD 20,304 per year
Master of Philosophical Studies	AUD 20,304 per year
Doctor of Philosophy	AUD 20,304 per year

The total tuition cost depends on the course structure and number of units undertaken.

For example, the Master of Theological Studies has an indicative total tuition cost of approximately AUD 40,608, while the Doctor of Philosophy has an indicative total of approximately AUD 60,912.

International students should also budget separately for:

• Accommodation
• Food and living expenses
• Overseas Student Health Cover
• Books and study materials
• Transport
• Visa and travel expenses
• Other course-related costs

International Student Application Fee

Overseas applicants are required to pay a AUD 300 non-refundable application fee when applying for coursework study.

Cost of Attendance

Students should consider:

Tuition + Accommodation + Living Expenses + OSHC + Transport + Study Materials + Other Fees

Because University of Divinity has a specialised course structure, students should calculate their total cost based on the exact units and qualification they intend to undertake.

Scholarships & Financial Support

University of Divinity offers several scholarships and financial assistance options, particularly for higher-degree research students.

Research Stipend Scholarship + Research Fee Scholarship

Eligible Higher Degree by Research students can receive:

• Tuition-fee coverage for up to 4 years
• A living stipend for up to 3 years

This is a competitive research scholarship.

Research Fee Scholarship

This scholarship can cover tuition fees for eligible research students for up to 4 years.

Janette Gray PhD Scholarship

The Janette Gray PhD Scholarship can provide:

• Tuition-fee coverage for up to 4 years
• A stipend for up to 3 years

It is intended for eligible doctoral research students.

Ivor Church Bursary

Eligible students can receive tuition-fee assistance through the Ivor Church Bursary, which can provide support for up to 3 years.

Robert James Brown Scholarship

The Robert James Brown Scholarship can provide tuition-fee support for eligible students for up to 2 years.

Student Bursaries

University of Divinity also provides financial assistance to eligible current students experiencing financial difficulty.

The maximum bursary available in a semester is AUD 3,000.

Scholarships for International Students

International students should check:

• Eligibility requirements
• Course requirements
• Scholarship duration
• Application deadlines
• Academic requirements
• Whether the scholarship covers tuition, living costs or both

Research scholarships can be particularly valuable for international students because some provide both tuition-fee coverage and living support.

Payment of Tuition Fees

Students should check their enrolment and fee information for:

• Tuition amount
• Payment deadlines
• Applicable student fees
• Scholarship deductions
• OSHC requirements
• Other course expenses

The exact amount payable depends on the units and course undertaken.

Cost Example

Suppose a student completes a standard postgraduate unit.

Standard postgraduate unit: AUD 3,384

If a student undertakes four such units:

AUD 3,384 × 4 = AUD 13,536

This is an illustrative calculation. The actual study load and fee structure depend on the student's qualification.

The Honest Verdict – Is University of Divinity Worth the Cost?

University of Divinity can be an excellent option for students who have a specific academic or professional interest in theology, ministry, philosophy, spirituality, counselling or related disciplines.

University of Divinity Is an Excellent Choice If You...

• Want to study Theology
• Are interested in Ministry
• Want to study Philosophy
• Are interested in Spirituality
• Want specialised theological education
• Are interested in Counselling
• Want to pursue religious education
• Are interested in pastoral or spiritual care
• Want to undertake theological research
• Are considering a PhD in a related field
• Prefer smaller academic communities

It May Not Be the Right Fit If You...

• Want a broad range of STEM degrees
• Are primarily looking for Business or IT programs
• Want a large comprehensive university
• Prefer a conventional campus experience
• Need a university with extensive corporate internship opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions About University of Divinity Fees

Q. How much does University of Divinity cost?

A. For 2026, standard units cost approximately AUD 2,184 for undergraduate units and AUD 3,384 for postgraduate units. Course-level fees vary depending on the qualification.

Q. Does University of Divinity offer scholarships?

A. Yes. The university offers research scholarships that can cover tuition fees and, for selected scholarships, provide a living stipend.

Q. Does University of Divinity offer scholarships to international students?

A. Eligible international Higher Degree by Research students can apply for competitive research scholarships, including opportunities involving tuition-fee coverage and stipends.

Q. Is there an application fee for international students?

A. Yes. Overseas coursework applicants pay a AUD 300 application fee.

Q. Is accommodation included in tuition?

A. No. Accommodation and living expenses are separate.

Q. Does University of Divinity provide financial assistance?

A. Yes. In addition to scholarships, eligible current students experiencing financial need can apply for bursary assistance of up to AUD 3,000 per semester.

A Final Word – Why University of Divinity Deserves Your Consideration

University of Divinity offers a specialised academic environment focused on theology, ministry, philosophy, spirituality and related professional disciplines.

Its collegiate structure and smaller learning environment can be particularly attractive to students seeking close academic engagement and specialised study rather than the broad course portfolio of a large comprehensive university.

For research students, the university's scholarship opportunities can provide substantial financial support through tuition-fee coverage and living stipends.

Overall Verdict: University of Divinity is a strong option for international students seeking specialised education and research in theology, ministry, philosophy, spirituality and related disciplines, particularly those looking for a smaller and more personalised academic environment.