SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Theology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
122395  Master of Theology 
ORIGINATOR
Cape Town Baptist Seminary NPC 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Master's Degree  Field 07 - Human and Social Studies  Religious and Ethical Foundations of Society 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0724/24  2024-06-04  2027-06-04 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-04   2031-06-04  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The primary purpose of the Master of Theology is to train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge at an advanced level. The qualification will equip learners with specialist theological knowledge of the Christian faith, church doctrine, church history, and the interpretation of the Bible as related to the different fields of ministry. The qualification will enable learners to do advanced and independent research through training in research methods and methodology to expose them to peer group evaluation, the world of scholarly, scientific communication, and evaluation inter alia by assisting them in publishing their findings. The qualification will prepare learners who aspire to move to the highest level of academic work for doctoral study and promote an approach based on academic integrity and professional ethics.

On completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Deal with the complexity of theological hermeneutics to find workable solutions to problems and challenges related to theology.
  • Add to the pool of academics and professionals by promoting competence and critical intellectual abilities.
  • Ensure the significance/relevancy and advancement of theology and ministry and make provision for the needs of society for skilled theologians and community leaders.
  • Contribute to good citizenship among congregants where graduates are placed.

    Rationale:
    The qualification responds to the need to provide faith communities and the South African society at large with graduates possessing the critical knowledge, skills, and competence required to make a positive but critical contribution to theological, ethical, and global-political debates.

    The qualification will develop advanced research competencies which will meet demand in numerous sectors and foster the entrepreneurial qualities sorely needed in the Republic of South Africa to realise Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) as well as the National Development Plan (NDP) objectives for 2030. The qualification will lay the foundations for conducting research at advanced levels of complexity and prepare graduates for undertaking research at specialist levels, thus contributing to the knowledge economy of South Africa through participation in knowledge creation.

    Christian Leadership by persons with competencies fostered at this level of learning within local Churches and Communities is well documented and engrained into the fabric of various Ecclesiastical Bodies, Community Development Projects, Public Benefit Organisations, and Non-Profit Companies. In addition, numerous management and other roles within Higher Education and Public Administration require a minimum of an NQF 9 Level qualification including Theological qualifications.

    The qualification is research-driven and responds to the need for advanced in-depth and independent theological research and the goal of individuals to be a theological and/or religious resource for faith communities, churches, comparable organisations, societies, citizens, and others. The qualification is, therefore, designed to provide faith communities and society with learners who have the critical knowledge, research skills, methodology, and competence to meet the demands of responsible ministry and leadership in contemporary society.

    The development of the qualification was informed by the analysis of Alumni Tracking Data, Benchmarked Trends in Higher Education, and Community Feedback. Most learners who pursue access to an articulating Master's degree at alternative institutions of Higher Learning would have preferred to continue their studies at the institution rather than pursue it elsewhere.

    In addition, Academics are required to maintain institutional standards of research outputs as part of their tenure at the institution. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

    The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy applicable to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Bachelor of Divinity, NQF Level. 8.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Theology, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Theology, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Bachelor Honours in Theology, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Theology, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Postgraduate Diploma: Christian Theology, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Theology in Christian Ministry, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory module at NQF Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

    Compulsory modules, Level 9, 180 Credits:
  • Dissertation, 180 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Engage with, critique, interpret, and evaluate current advanced scholarship, research, and processes of knowledge production.
    2. Demonstrate the ability to design, select, and apply appropriate and creative methods and processes.
    3. Demonstrate the ability to critically contribute to the development of ethical standards.
    4. Demonstrate the ability to analyse and interpret contexts, and documents.
    5. Act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level.
    6. Demonstrate problem-solving, accountability, accessing, processing, and managing information.
    7. Apply self-direction and originality in the ability to interact effectively.
    8. Make interventions at an appropriate level within a system, based on an understanding of hierarchical relations within the system.
    9. Address and reflect on the intended and unintended consequences of interventions.
    10. Effectively and clearly communicate, verbally and in writing, to a range of audiences with different levels of knowledge/expertise, utilizing the resources of academic discourses. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be applied in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Critique, interpret, and evaluate current scholarship, research, and processes of knowledge production in the academic field of study.
  • Design, select, and apply appropriate and creative methods and processes to address and solve complex practical and theoretical problems applicable to own research or advanced scholarship.
  • Apply research techniques and enquiry to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline.
  • Critically contribute to the development of ethical standards in a specific context.
  • Use the resources of academic and professional/occupational discourses to effectively communicate to a range of audiences with different levels of knowledge/expertise.
  • Develop learning strategies that sustain independent learning and academic or professional development.
  • Interact effectively within the learning or professional group as a means of enhancing learning.
  • Act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level.
  • Make interventions at an appropriate level within a system, based on hierarchical relations within the system, and address the intended and unintended consequences of interventions.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    The assessment will be formative and summative.
    Formative Assessment:
    Formative assessment will be continuous towards improvement of successive draft chapters, with regular feedback from the supervisor. The formative process is under supervision and a learner must:
  • Undertake a literature review on a specified topic.
  • Formulate a problem statement, objectives, questions/hypotheses.
  • Write a research proposal.
  • Collect data and analyse data.
  • Compile an academically written Thesis with citations and references.

    Summative Assessment:
    The summative assessment component is the submission of a full Dissertation for examination.

    The criteria to be satisfied by the learner before awarding of the degree include:
  • Complete at least one calendar year as a registered learner for the qualification.
  • Submit a full dissertation which is externally evaluated by two expert examiners and declared satisfactory.

    Internal and External Examination:
    At least two external examiners, competent in the field of study, will be appointed by the faculty to ensure the quality of the proposed study. The examiners should be experienced with knowledge of the learning field, in whom other examiners have confidence, and who are experienced thesis examiners. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification enjoys broad acceptance in most academic jurisdictions and is well-documented internationally. The respective qualification articulates with a cognate Doctoral Degree and is internationally comparable. The possibility for admission to articulating international programmes exists subject to institutional admission requirements.

    Country: United States of America
    Institution: Dallas Theological Seminary
    Qualification Title: Master of Theology
    Credits: 120 credit hours
    Duration: 4 years
    Entry Requirements:
  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent, which includes an Honours Degree from an internationally accredited institution.

    Purpose:
    The Master of Theology is designed to produce competent Bible expositors who are qualified to serve God effectively as pastors, missionaries, or leaders in other areas of vocational Christian ministry.

    On completion of the qualification, learners will:
  • Demonstrate the ability to exegete the Hebrew and Greek texts of the Bible.
  • Preach the Bible effectively.
  • Apply leadership and educational methods and practices to a ministry population.
  • Evidence of a commitment to multiplying disciples of all nations.
  • Verbalize a general knowledge of the Bible, including a synthetic understanding of the major books.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the historical development of theology, a knowledge of premillennial theology, and an ability to support their theological views and apply them to contemporary issues.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the educational program of the local church and an awareness of the worldwide mission of the church.
  • Demonstrate an increasing likeness to Christ as manifested in love for God, love for others, and the fruit of the Spirit.
  • Communicate the Bible effectively.
  • Demonstrate skills in various ministries.
  • Lead a local church or other group by means of biblical exposition, leadership skills, evangelism, and service.
    Qualification structure:
    The qualification comprises 120 credit hours, 91 of which are predetermined in the curriculum, with the remaining 29 credit hours devoted to a ministry emphasis based on vocational intent and interests. Learners must complete at least 9 elective hours in the Division of Ministries and Communication.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Biblical Exposition.
  • Systematic Theology.
  • Languages.
  • Ministries and Communication.
  • Concentration and Research Courses.

    Similarities:
  • The Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS) and the South African (SA) qualifications require learners who completed an Honours Degree.
  • Both qualifications share a similar purpose and outcomes.
  • Both qualifications articulate vertically to the Doctoral degree in a cognate field.

    Differences:
  • The DTS qualification is offered over four years of full-time study whereas the SA qualification is offered over one year of full-time study.
  • The DTS qualification carries a weighting of 120 credit hours whereas the SA qualification has a weighting of 180 credits.
  • The DTS qualification consists of the compulsory and elective modules whereas the SA qualification consists of the dissertation and no coursework.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: London School of Theology
    Qualification Title: Master of Arts in Theological Studies
    Credits: 180 credits
    Duration: 12 months Full-time
    Entry Requirements:
    This Master of Theology programme admits candidates with a minimum of an Honours Degree or equivalent.

    Purpose:
    The Master of Arts in Theological Studies is a unique qualification that aims to foster a holistic approach to doing theology which rejuvenates the study and practice of Christian theology for the Church and World.

    The aim is accomplished by means of the integration of the commonly recognised sources of theological knowledge: the Bible (Scripture), the historical construction of Christian belief (Tradition), considered, critical thought (Reason), the role of experience (Experience) and the witness of the living community of faith (the Church) as it proclaims the Gospel and makes disciples. In addition, this core concept of doing theology is brought, in various ways, into the theological sub-disciplines (Biblical Studies, Systematic Theology, Theological Ethics, and Theology of Worship) represented by the optional modules. These sub-disciplines are viewed not as silos unrelated to each other, but rather as areas or emphases of theology that are mutually interpretive. The qualification meets the minimum requirements for admission into a Doctoral degree in other international jurisdictions.

    This qualification is intended for learners who are:
  • Theology or religious studies graduate seeking an innovative and flexible Masters-level qualification in theology.
  • Contemplating Doctoral degrees work in theological studies, or a related discipline and are seeking a foundation for doctoral research.
  • Involved in ministry and are looking for a path of lifelong learning that will enhance service.
  • Have never formally studied theology but wish to integrate your professional and personal interests with theological understanding.

    Qualification structure:
    The qualification consists of three core modules (one 40-credit module, one 20-credit module, and the 60-credit dissertation) and three optional modules (20 credits each).

    Similarities:
  • The London School of Theology (LST) and the South African (SA) qualifications have a weighting of 180 credits.
  • Both qualifications require learners who completed an Honour's degree.
  • Both qualifications are offered over one year of full-time study.
  • Both qualifications have a similar purpose and develop the same outcomes.
  • Both qualifications articulate vertically to the Doctoral degree in a cognate field.

    Difference:
    The LST qualification consists of coursework and the min-dissertation whereas the South SA qualification consists of a full dissertation and no coursework. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Master of Divinity, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Ethics, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Arts in Ethics, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Theology, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Arts in Theology, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Theology in Christian Ministry, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Theology in Christianity, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Religious Education and Pastoral Theology, NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Theology, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Ethics, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Philosophy, NQF Level 10.

    Diagonal Articulation
    There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Cape Town Baptist Seminary NPC 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.