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: 

Diploma in Theology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
80193  Diploma in Theology 
ORIGINATOR
Theological Education by Extension College of Southern Africa 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Diploma  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  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2032-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

This programme aims to produce learners who can use the knowledge, skills and values in the service and ministry - both lay and ordained - of Christian communities, community organisations and society. It serves a particular purpose in meeting the need of some churches and individuals for theological education that is comprehensive but can be done by those who do not have the entrance requirements for degree studies.

It aims to produce life-long theological learners who can respond with integrity and faith to current issues in African and international contexts. It is also intended to raise the consciousness of learners with respect to issues of justice such as gender, social disparity, disability and the environment, and enable them to contribute to the development of the society as a whole. The programme aims to get students to integrate knowledge of the Christian faith with essential skills to minister to and lead Christian communities and contribute to the development and transformation of the broader society, as well as develop the values of such leadership. Learners who wish to gain an understanding of the Christian faith and to develop their own spirituality will also benefit from this programme.

Rationale:

The TEE Diploma in Theology will enable students who have a National Senior Certificate but not with a university entrance to further their theological studies. The Diploma will give them a comprehensive qualification in theology that will enable them to minister effectively in their church and community setting.

The Diploma: Theology aims to serve the education and training needs of the member-Churches represented on the College Council. It will do this through equipping students for ordained or lay ministry and by promoting personal development and leadership skills.

The programme aims to serve learners who desire:
  • To develop a deeper knowledge and understanding of Christian faith and practice.
  • To develop skills in interpersonal relationships and skills to work in the community.
  • Grow in personal faith. This will equip students for further studies in theology.

    The TEE College Diploma: Theology is aimed particularly at learners who, for a variety of reasons, are not able to avail themselves of opportunities for full-time higher education studies. It is worth noting in this regard that on average potential TEEC students are significantly older than the norm for higher education in general and theological education in particular. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners who are admitted to this programme can:
  • Read and write at the required higher education level.
  • Learn from written study material.
  • Formulate their own viewpoints in writing.
  • Organise and process new information and viewpoints that they encounter.
  • With guided support, take responsibility for their own intellectual progress.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    The structure of this qualification makes the Recognition of Prior Learning possible. This qualification may therefore be achieved in part or completely through the recognition of prior learning, which includes formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience. The learner will be thoroughly briefed on the mechanism to be used and support and guidance would be provided. Care should be taken that the mechanism used provides the learner with an opportunity to demonstrate competence and is not so onerous as to prevent learners from taking up the Recognition of Prior Learning option towards gaining a qualification.

    If the learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this qualification the appropriate credits should be assigned to the learner.

    Access to the Qualification:

    Statutory requirements for access to higher education studies apply to this programme. "The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution as certified by Umalusi, coupled with an achievement rating of 3 (Moderate Achievement, 40 - 49%) or better in four recognised National Senior Certificate 20 credit subjects. Institutional and programme needs may require appropriate combinations of recognised National Senior Certificate subjects and levels of achievement".

    Alternatively, a Higher Certificate or Advanced Certificate: Theology will satisfy the minimum entry requirement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consists of the following modules:

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Getting to know the Bible, NQF Level 5, 20 Credits.
  • Systematic Theology 1: Understanding our Faith, NQF Level 5, 20 credits.
  • Ethics 1: Living our Faith, NQF Level 5, 20 credits.
  • Spirituality 1: Growing in Faith, NQF Level 5, 20 credits.
  • Church History 1: An Introduction, NQF Level 5, 20 credits.
  • Practical Theology 1: Christian Being and Doing, NQF Level 5, 20 credits.

    Total compulsory credits = 120 credits.

    Elective Modules:

    Learners are to choose 12 modules from the list below, of which at least 3 must be at NQF Level 7, to give an elective credit total of at least 240 credits.

    NQF Level 6 modules:

    Choose no more than 9 of the following:
  • Old Testament 2: Exploring Politics, Prophets and Power, 20 credits.
  • New Testament 2: Applying New Testament Narratives, 20 credits.
  • Church History 2: Southern African Church History, 20 credits.
  • Proclaiming our Faith, 20 credits.
  • Worship and Celebration, 20 credits.
  • Pastoral Care 2, 20 credits.
  • A Christian response to HIV/Aids, 20 credits.
  • Passing the Faith: Youth Ministry, 20 credits.
  • Christian Leadership and Management, 20 credits.
  • Systematic Theology 2: Doing Theology in context, 20 credits.
  • Spirituality 2: Drawing closer to God, 20 credits.
  • Ethics 2: Applying Ethical Principals, 20 credits.
  • Teaching the Faith, 20 credits.
  • Dialoguing with other faiths, 20 credits.

    NQF Level 7 Modules:

    Choose no fewer than 3 of the following:
  • New Testament 3: Applying New Testament Literature, 20 credits.
  • Systematic Theology 3: Wrestling with our Faith, 20 credits.
  • Ethics 3: Moral Formation and Spirituality, 20 credits.
  • Spirituality 3: A way of life, 20 credits.
  • Church History 3: Growth and Change, 20 credits.
  • Ecumenical Studies, 20 credits.
  • Caring in Faith/pastoral Care and Counselling, 20 credits.
  • Ministry for Transformation, 20 credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    The Exit Level Outcomes for the Diploma: Theology are as follows. The courses together that make up the Diploma will equip the students to achieve the Exit Level Outcomes.

    1. Identify and distinguish basic concepts and theories with regard to theology as a human and social science.

    2. Integrate and apply the range of theological concepts and disciplines.

    3. Critically compare and use theological and other sources to explore faith questions and proclaim Christian faith in context, particularly the African context.

    4. Identify, evaluate and develop personal faith in context, particularly the African context.

    5. Engage in and articulate critical and creative theological thinking and writing.

    6. Play a moral and constructive role by developing and applying core human and Christian values to contexts, to facilitate moral decision-making and formation.

    7. Facilitate pastoral ministry to individuals and communities and evaluate its effectiveness.

    8. Promote, develop and evaluate transformative leadership in a faith community.

    9. Participate constructively in multicultural communities.

    10. Identify and formulate transformative responses to contemporary societal needs. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Demonstrate critical insight into the various viewpoints related to theological issues.
  • Apply basic concepts and theories contextually.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explain and use the unity and diversity of theological subjects.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Interpret, compare and critically analyse biblical and other texts.
  • Use other sources and disciplines when applicable to interpret biblical and other texts.
  • Critically address faith questions.
  • Communicate the Christian faith in context, particularly the African context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Give a critical account of the history and values of own faith community and own personal faith development.
  • Integrate personal faith development with theological discourse and ministry in own faith communities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Identify, classify, analyse, compare and critically evaluate different theological theories, concepts and positions.
  • Critically derive theological meaning from different theological views.
  • Present and defend arguments combining insights gained from different theological genres.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Demonstrate critical insight into the complexities of current moral issues.
  • Identify and compare key human and Christian ethical norms and values.
  • Integrate Christian norms and values with appropriate goals, consequences and virtues for moral decisions and actions.
  • Appropriately engage learning and analysis into value-based decisions and actions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Identify and analyse individual, group and societal areas in need of pastoral healing and other ministries.
  • Integrate theological understanding in effective Christian pastoral ministry.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of pastoral ministry in particular contexts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Show an ability to evaluate, impart and encourage appropriate leadership forms and skills in a local faith community.
  • Integrate theoretical and practical competencies in the development of a local faith community.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Analyse the impact of cultural and religious differences on community relations.
  • Demonstrate sensitivity towards different cultures and religions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Develop and use analytical skills to identify and explain the needs of society.
  • Develop contextually relevant responses to these needs.
  • Apply these responses by proposing and implementing transformational processes and programmes.

    Integrated Assessment:
  • Assessment practices in the TEE College are open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable and ensure that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever. Assessment instruments are designed with this in mind so that students from different contexts are able to complete them.
  • TEE uses an integrated approach to assessment. Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably interwoven. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values are combined using both theory and praxis.
  • Assessment of the core courses is integrated with theological knowledge and studies. It is relevant to the students' context and develops competencies needed to achieve the exit level outcomes and the purpose of the qualification.
  • A variety of methods are used in assessment and practical assignments are given that are relevant and appropriate to the context in which the learner is working or will work.
  • The assessments are integrated which means that the theoretical and practical components are assessed together. Continuous assessments are provided through:
    > Self assessment activities.
    > Practical projects.
    > Written assignments.
    > Written exams - in some courses.
    > These together cover both formative and summative assessment.
  • Assessors assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.
  • Assessment ensures that all the outcomes and Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are evaluated in an integrated manner.

    TEE College has a Quality Assurance process in place whereby all assessors are regularly monitored. (See below under the section on Moderation). 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    A common route in many African and Asian countries is to take a three year Diploma in Theology, followed by a three year Bachelor of Divinity, e.g. Makumire University and Iringa University in Tanzania, St. Paul's College, Limuru in Kenya, Trinity Theological College in Singapore, Serampore College of Calcutta University in India. In the scope of the courses which they include, the TEE College Diploma: Theology programme is comparable to the three year diploma of these African and Asian examples. Such a comparison reveals that, as in these other qualifications, there is a progression in theological studies that allows for theoretical as well as contextual and practical insights and applications. There is also a Brunerian 'spiral curriculum' aspect to the progression through the TEE College diploma as well as an interdisciplinary integration of fundamental knowledge and understandings. In this way the TEE College diploma seeks to avoid "teaching each subject in a box" which is in line with best international practice.

    A number of countries throughout Africa offer diplomas in theology. It was instructive, however, to compare the outcomes of the TEE College Diploma with the Diploma in Theology on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework. This has the following areas of focus:
  • Christian leadership.
  • Christian mission.
  • Christian worship and preaching.
  • Educational practice in Christian ministries.
  • Pastoral theology and ministry.
  • Philosophy, theory and Christian theology of education.

    The Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria of the proposed diploma of TEE College do not refer to specific areas such as mission, worship, preaching and Christian education. Rather, they refer to broad competencies which underlie the kinds of areas listed in the New Zealand qualification. However, the TEE College programme does offer learners courses in preaching, worship, Christian education etc., some as electives rather than core courses, but, even if these specific courses are not included in a learner's curriculum, the competencies enshrined in the programme's Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria are sufficiently addressed across the curriculum in its core and elective components.

    The Australian College of Theology offers a Diploma in Theology and a Diploma of Ministry. These are 64 credits, 2 year diplomas and TEE College offers a 360 credits diploma which covers both theology and ministry and is a 3 year qualification. There are similar aims.

    Conclusion:

    The programme which TEE College intends to offer takes into account international experience of distance education in the field of theology and ministry and particularly that of the 'theological education by extension' movement. The TEE model, which involves an emphasis on the integration of academic theological competence with applied competence for ministry, presented in a distance/extension mode, was pioneered in the Presbyterian Seminary of Guatemala and has since been adopted by diversified theological programmes worldwide. The level of these programmes varies but that of TEEC aims to uphold the best standard of the TEE model at higher education level, such as that of Serampore College India, which is recognized along with TEEC in South Africa as exemplifying the application of this type of distance model in higher education. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Vertical articulation can occur with the:
  • Advanced Diploma: Theology, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Theology, NQF Level 7.

    Horizontal articulation can occur with any Cognate Diploma at NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Quality assurance regarding the assessment process is carried out on an ongoing basis throughout the assessment process. To this end, a sample of the formative assignments is sent to the college for moderation. The quality assurance also obtains statistics on the results of the assignments in terms of consistency of marking as well as the pass rate and the drop out rate. These are analysed and appropriate measures are put in place.
  • Internal moderation is carried out by full-time and part-time staff appointed by the management of the College. External moderation is carried out by persons appointed by the College Council, who hold doctorates in theology and are recognized for their leadership role in theological education.
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this qualification is registered and appointed by the provider according to existing moderation guidelines of the HEQC.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment is overseen by the HEQC, according to the HEQC policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation.
  • Moderation validates the achievement of competencies and assessment processes as described in Exit Level Outcomes and Integrated Assessment options as described in the qualification.
  • Anyone who wishes to be assessed against the TEEC Diploma: Theology Qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the HEQC. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors must:
  • Possess a relevant qualification at one level higher than the level of the qualification.
  • Have at least four years relevant experience of theology/ministry.
  • Comply with all other requirements of the HEQC. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    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. Theological Education by Extension College of Southern Africa 


    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.