Supporting your call with clarity

Community borrowers must register to borrow from the library. Please contact library@sbc.edu.au to enquire about membership. UD enrolled students and SBC staff accounts are automatically created upon enrolment. How do I sign in to my library account? For instructions on how to sign in, visit our Library page.

For instructions on searching for SBC library books in the UD Library Hub catalogue, visit our resources.

Students and staff can request a copy by filling in the Library Scanning Request form.

Yes, SBC staff and current students who are enrolled in a University of Divinity program have reciprocal borrowing rights with other University of Divinity partner colleges in South Australia. Visit the library in person with your University of Divinity ID card.

Send a request with a JPEG passport style photograph to admin@sbc.edu.au

Doing a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) is a different and more complex experience than completing a coursework program of study. In HDR, you have one assignment to complete, which is the writing of a thesis. Each HDR student works with at least two supervisors who will support, guide and encourage you with your work, as well as give feedback on your writing.

Master of Philosophy can be completed in 1.5 years of full-time study or up to 4 years part-time. Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Professional Practice will take 3 years full-time or up to 9 years part-time to complete.

All Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students and their supervisors become members of the University of Divinity – School of Graduate Research (SGR), which offers range of programs to support their successful completion. This includes orientation programs, research training opportunities, annual research conference, and thesis bootcamps which aim is to provide space and motivation for a period of concentrated writing.

Research scholarships may be applied to the University of Divinity. Visit Research Scholarships – University of Divinity for information on available scholarships, eligibility and selection criteria, and SGR key dates.

Step 1: Select a course. Include links to MPh, DPh, DPP courses

Step 2: Check the selected course’s profile for admission criteria 

Step 3: Select St Barnabas College. 

Step 4: Attend an interview with the College Course Advisor or Research Coordinator 

Step 5: Prepare a research proposal

Step 6: Complete and submit the form(s).

For detailed information about admission into a research degree, visit Apply for Admission into a Research Degree – University of Divinity

A proposal is the first stage in the research process and a key document in the application process. It is about 2000 words in length which needs to address the range of research elements necessary to the completion of a research project. Find out more about research proposal at Research Proposal – University of Divinity

Some people feel they are called by God to serve more deeply and intentionally. God calling can come as a surprise to some people and for others it is a strong conviction of serving in a specific role. If you think God might be calling, we invite you to consider entering a process of ministry discernment and explore which part you are feeling called to follow.

Potential pathways are available depending on how you want to serve God. Ordained ministry is for people who want to be officially recognised as priest or deacon. This path requires completion of theological degree and formal discernment process. Lay Ministry is for people who want to fulfill church roles without formal ordination such as readers, musicians, worship leaders and youth workers. Chaplaincy is another ministry pathway if one is inclined in providing spiritual care to people in various settings such as schools, hospitals, military and prisons.

Contact St Barnabas College at admin@sbc.edu.au for further enquiries and appointment with the appropriate coordinator.

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is open to a diverse range of people who feel called to offer spiritual care in meaningful ways. This includes clergy, chaplains, religious leaders, and laypeople who are exploring or already engaged in ministry or pastoral support.

While many applicants come with a background in theology or ministry, we also welcome those with relevant life experience and a deep interest in spiritual care. Entry into the program requires completion of an application form, an interview, and submission of any supporting documentation needed to assess readiness for this reflective, hands-on learning process.

Whether you’re preparing for formal ministry or simply seeking to grow in your ability to care for others, CPE may be the next faithful step in your journey.

To apply for the Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) program at St Barnabas College, follow these steps:

1. Complete and submit the application form – This is your first step toward enrolment.

2. Attend an interview – You’ll meet with the SBC CPE Centre Director and Supervisor to discuss your readiness and goals for the program.

3. Provide supporting documentation – Additional materials may be requested by the Centre to support your application.

4. Pay the course fee – Once accepted, payment of the CPE course fee will confirm your place in the program.

If you have questions along the way, our team is here to guide you through the process.

A Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) unit is a comprehensive, supervised learning experience totalling at least 400 hours. The program integrates clinical practice, personal and group reflection, supervision, and academic reading, designed to deepen your formation in pastoral and spiritual care.

At St Barnabas College, a typical weekly structure includes:

• Peer group seminars and individual supervision (8 hours per week):
  Held on Mondays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, these sessions involve small peer groups (3–6 members) led by one or two accredited supervisors, combining case discussions, reflection, and learning activities.

• Pastoral/spiritual care practice (7–10 hours per week):
  Real-world experience in settings such as hospitals, aged care, or community chaplaincy, where students offer care and reflect on their encounters.

• Reading, reflection, and preparation (4–5 hours per week):
  Time set aside for theological reading, journaling, and preparing written materials for supervision and group work.

The structure is designed to be immersive and transformational, developing not only your knowledge and skills, but also your self-awareness and capacity to care for others with wisdom and compassion.

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is designed to form and equip individuals for the meaningful practice of spiritual and pastoral care. Its goals include:

• Enhancing pastoral identity and competence – Developing a strong sense of self and purpose in your role as a spiritual caregiver.

• Building self-awareness and interpersonal skills – Understanding how your own experiences, beliefs, and behaviours impact the care you offer.

• Improving the ability to offer care in diverse settings – Gaining the confidence and flexibility to provide spiritual support across hospitals, aged care, and community environments.

• Encouraging theological reflection in real-life situations – Learning to connect faith, practice, and experience through thoughtful reflection and supervision.

CPE is both personal and professional formation, helping you grow as a compassionate, thoughtful, and effective pastoral presence.

Yes. St Barnabas College is a fully accredited CPE Centre, authorised by the South Australia and Northern Territory Association for Clinical Pastoral Education Inc. (SANTACPE). SANTACPE is a recognised member association of the Australia and New Zealand Association for Clinical Pastoral Education Inc. (ANZACPE), which governs and upholds standards for CPE programs across the region.

This accreditation ensures that students at St Barnabas College receive a nationally recognised and professionally supervised training experience in spiritual and pastoral care, aligned with the highest standards of CPE education.

Students can undertake Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at St Barnabas College through two pathways:

• As part of a degree – If you’re enrolled in an award through the University of Divinity, CPE can be studied as an accredited unit within your program. Standard tuition fees for award students apply through the University.

• As a private student – If you’re not enrolled in a University of Divinity degree, you can still study CPE by enrolling directly with St Barnabas College. The course fee for private students is $2,500 (2025 rate), which covers all components of the program, including supervision and learning resources.

Whichever path you choose, you’ll receive a fully accredited, supervised, and deeply formative learning experience in spiritual and pastoral care.

We offer a wide range of courses including Biblical Studies, Systematic Theology, Church History, Mission and Ministry Studies, Ancient Languages, Clinical Pastoral Education and more. Courses are available at certificate, diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Some advanced courses may have prerequisites. Learn more about our courses.

We provide academic skills assistance, course advise and planning, pastoral care, new students orientation and learning language support. Our goal is to help you feel at home and succeed in your studies.

Fees for overseas students are the same as those for domestic students. Overseas applicants, however, are charged an application fee of AUD$300.

https://divinity.edu.au/study/fees/

Yes, a valid visa is required for international student to commence study in Australia. University of Divinity has established a guide in Applying for Student Visa.

https://divinity.edu.au/study/overseas-students/applying-for-student-visa/

Yes, student visa holders are typically allowed to work part-time during the academic term. Be sure to check the latest visa regulations for details.

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500

Courses are taught in English, so proficiency is important. You may need to provide proof of English language ability through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent. Check our admissions policy for specific requirements.

https://divinity.edu.au/documents/admissions-policy/

University of Divinity has set the admission and enrolment closing dates for the Years 2025 and 2026.

https://divinity.edu.au/about/key-dates/#2-when-to-apply

Once you’ve decided with the course that you want to take and have met the minimum academic standards, complete and send the Admission Form for Overseas Students to admin@sbc.edu.au. Be sure to include academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a copy of your passport. SBC Registrar and Academic Dean are available to guide you through the process.

https://divinity.edu.au/documents/admission-form-for-overseas-coursework-students/

Yes! We are CRICOS accredited and welcome students from around the world. St Barnabas College provides overseas students with a safe, enjoyable and rewarding place to study. Pastoral and academic support is offered to all students.

Yes, our programs are accredited and recognized by the University of Divinity and Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).

1. Browse our courses and select the one that fits your prior academic qualifications and objectives.
2. Check admission criteria. Our admission policy details the requirements to determine the eligibility of an applicant.
3. Complete and submit admission form to admin@sbc.edu.au or registrar@sbc.edu.au
4. Attend an interview. The purpose of the interview is to help you choose the right course, to ensure you meet the admission requirements, and to plan a program of study appropriate to your course and your needs.
5. Pay tuition fees upon receipt of Letter of Offer from University of Divinity.

If you need help with the application process, contact admin@sbc.edu.au to assist you.

Absolutely. Many of our students balance study with work or ministry. Our flexible scheduling and online options make it easier to fit study into your life. Contact our Academic Dean at dszepessy@sbc.edu.au to discuss available and appropriate study options.

Tuition fees vary by award type. We do not offer scholarships, but Australian citizens and holders of a permanent humanitarian visa may defer the payment of fees through the FEE-HELP loan scheme.

Tuition Fees – https://divinity.edu.au/documents/university-of-divinity-tuition-fees-2025/

FEE-HELP – https://www.studyassist.gov.au/

Depending on the course, you may earn a certificate, diploma, bachelor’s degree, or postgraduate qualification.

Course durations vary. Full awards or degree programs can take 1–3 years full-time or can be extended up to 9 years part-time. Certificate courses, on the other hand, can be completed in 6 months if taken full time.

We offer degree courses that are designed for beginners in theological education. Some advanced courses may require prior theological study or equivalent experience. The University of Divinity has set the minimum academic standards for admission to each award type.

https://divinity.edu.au/documents/admissions-policy/

We offer flexible learning options including in-person, online, and mixed formats to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules. Contact admin@sbc.edu.au to learn more.

Our courses are open to anyone with an interest in theology—whether you’re preparing for ministry, pursuing academic study, or seeking personal enrichment. For enrolment queries and advice, contact our Academic Dean at dszepessy@sbc.edu.au