SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Bachelor of Theology

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
97184	Bachelor of Theology
ORIGINATOR
University of KwaZulu-Natal
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 First 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	360	Not Applicable	NQF Level 07	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 0733/25	2024-06-30	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2027-06-30		2029-06-30

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 replaces:

Qual ID	Qualification Title	Pre-2009 NQF Level	NQF Level	Min Credits	Replacement Status
81806	Bachelor of Theology: Christian Ministry	Level 6	NQF Level 07	512	Complete

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

The purpose of the Bachelor of Theology (BTh) is to prepare those who seek to serve the Christian church as priests or pastors.

Graduates of the qualification will

be ready to serve society as leaders of religious institutions and various community organizations

possess knowledge of the various basic components of the broad theology discipline

have skills they can reflectively apply to address societal issues

Targeted learners are those who seek training to serve in the ordained ministry within the Christian context, as well as in other leadership roles within society.

Learners who achieve this qualification can

competently and responsibly read religious texts

apply lessons of history to contemporary situations

think critically about difficult societal challenges

easily work ecumenically and across religious faiths

A qualified learner will be able to display the following attributes:

Analyse information from many angles (criticality) and effectively articulate said analysis,

Evaluate and apply Christian theology and ethics to self and to society,

Initiate and practice responsible Christian ministry across the varied facets of society,

Work well together with others within society towards the achievement of the common good,

Reflect on and seek continuous improvement of implemented interventions.

Rationale:
The need for the qualification persists because, despite its intractable diversity the Christian faith remains a significant role player within society; and in the absence of a national professional body for theology, coupled with the proliferation of partisan or denominational training institutions pursuing parochial interests, The qualification stands out as a sympathetic but non-partisan qualification with a celebrated quality track record and highly respected alumni.

Given the important role that religion plays, particularly Christianity, in shaping African realities in general and South African realities in particular, this qualification trains those who can engage social issues in responsible ways. By default, ministers of religion become reference points or consultants to many in society, and those who have undergone the training that this qualification confers can responsibly execute this role.

This qualification typically attracts learners who are interested in serving their religious bodies in various capacities, especially those training towards becoming priests or pastors. Those who are already serving as pastors with pre-NQF level 7 qualifications or without any formal training also enrol for this qualification. Non-ordination-track learners also enrol for this qualification or parts thereof out of personal curiosity or individual faith reasons.

Various church denominations, e.g., the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA), insist on having their clergy acquire an institution's autonomous qualification in preparation for the ordained ministry. Furthermore, through discussions with some of our collaborative partners, including the KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council (KZNCC) and the Pietermaritzburg Cluster of Theological Institutions, emphasis is regularly placed on the need for the University to offer a qualification that focuses on training contextually engaged theologians for church and society in Africa. Additionally, the broader society has identified the need for trained theologians who can engage critically on socio-economic and socio-political concerns and the critical role the Christian faith can play in influencing social change and transformation.

Graduates can work for Christian religious institutions, for constituencies such as schools, hospitals, colleges, seminaries, government departments, as well as non-governmental organizations. Those who complete this qualification can serve as priests or pastors, chaplains of public institutions, school teachers, community leaders, social advocacy workers, or junior researchers. Many graduates typically go on to postgraduate studies where they further refine their knowledge to offer ever more meaningful contributions at various echelons of society.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL offers an alternative access route into a qualification of learning to those who do not meet the specified qualification entry requirements. Qualifications, part-qualifications, and professional designations registered on the NQF may be awarded in whole or in part through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

RPL is an important consideration for this qualification, which seeks to respond to socio-economic redress of historically disadvantaged communities. The University Recognition of Prior Learning Policy and rules and procedures will be considered when learners apply for RPL. Many applicants hold a NQF Level 6 Diploma in Theology from their denominational seminaries plus varying years of experience in Christian ministry.

RPL assessment recognises knowledge, skills, and professional competence achieved through alternative learning pathways such as informal, non-formal, work-based experience, as well as formal learning. A detailed Portfolio of Evidence (POE) will form the basis of RPL evaluation. The RPL evaluation process is based on the matching of learning outcomes, obtained via alternative learning pathways, with the exit level outcomes of the qualification. The RPL POE evaluation will use criterion-referenced rubrics to ensure consistency, fairness, and rigour of RPL assessment. A maximum of 10% of admissions in any one year may be granted via RPL. The School Teaching and Learning Committee then presents RPL applications to the College Academic Affairs Board meeting.

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to bachelor's degree Studies.
Or

Nation Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to bachelor's degree Studies.
Or

Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, with endorsement.
Or

Higher Certificate in Theology, NQF Level 5.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at NQF Levels 5, 6, and 7, totalling 384 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 96 Credits:

Biblical Studies, 32 Credits

Systematic Theology, 32 Credits

History of Christianity, 16 Credits

Religions, 16 Credits

Elective Modules, NQF Level 5, 32 Credits (Select modules to a total of 32 credits):

Biblical Languages, 32 Credits

Basic isiZulu Language, 16 Credits

Academic Learning in English, 16 Credits

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 128 Credits:

Biblical Studies, 32 Credits

Systematic Theology, 32 Credits

Practical Theology, 32 Credits

Christian Ethics, 16 Credits

Sociology of Religion, 16 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 96 Credits:

Biblical Studies, 16 Credits

Systematic Theology, 16 Credits

Practical Theology, 32 Credits
Theology & Development, 32 Credits

Elective Modules, NQF Level 7, 32 Credits (Select two modules):

Bible and Mother-Tongue Exegesis, 16 Credits.

Political and Economic Ethics, 16 Credits.

Theo, Development & Environment, 16 Credits

Congregational Skills, 16 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1: Demonstrate understanding of basic theological concepts and theories.
2. Analyze theological concepts by understanding their principles and teachings.
3. Investigate faith questions within society, particularly the African context.
4, Apply theological principles and teachings in the development of personal faith.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for ELO 1:

Identify the range of key theological concepts and principles.

Explain the contestations around the various theological methods of enquiry.

Integrate theological insights with perspectives from other disciplines, explaining connections or absence thereof.

Associated Assessment Criteria for ELO 2:

Identify problems and gaps in current theological concepts, principles, or theories.

Evaluate the coherence, consistency, and logical implications of theological arguments.

Assess, interpret, and apply information in relation to different theological contexts.

Reflect on trajectories of theological principles and the manner of their presentation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for ELO 3:

Interpret biblical texts against their ancient and modern contexts.

Indicate how Christian faith intersects with African cultures, traditions, and contexts.

Promote dialogue with other faith traditions present in Africa, e.g., Islam and indigenous religions.

Associated Assessment Criteria for ELO 4:

Integrate theological principles and teachings into own belief systems and spiritual practices.

Deploy knowledge and skills to work for societal transformation.

Show respect for personal, cultural, and theological diversity in the context of a pluralistic society.

Embrace accountability for decisions taken in the field and endeavour to always lead by example.

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT:
The assessment of modules is informed by the University's Assessment Policy. In keeping with said policy, assessment will combine summative and formative evaluation but not Work-Integrated-Learning (WIL) at this stage.

Within integrated assessment praxis, learning outcomes are constructively aligned to the NQF level descriptors expected of those who qualify. During both formative and summative assessments, learners will be expected to display both module-specific and interdisciplinary competencies. Care will always be taken to ensure that components of this programme are assessed by persons in possession of qualifications at a higher NQF level than the one being assessed.

Formative: Continuous assessment tests, individual and group presentations, and written assessments all meant to ensure that learning is reflective, as both lecturers and learners get feedback on their performances.

Summative: End-of-semester examinations, portfolios of evidence, and placement reports, where applicable, will test learners' ability to integrate different aspects of knowledge gained, synthesis of theories and concepts used in the subject learned, and creative application of learning ethically.

The ratio of Formative to Summative assessments ranges between 40% and 50% depending on the NQF level being assessed and whether the module is core or an elective.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies dominates within public universities, while the Bachelor of Divinity is preferred by private universities, many of which are started by religious organizations. Beyond the African continent, the Bachelor of Theology is barely offered at the undergraduate level, the focus there being on postgraduate theological studies.

Country: Kenya
Institution: St Paul's University
Qualification Title: Bachelor of Divinity
Duration: 4 years or 2 1/2 years for learners undertaking a trimester system.
Entry requirements:

Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S). E mean grade C+ and above or its equivalent
Or

High School Certificate 'A level' with a minimum of two principal passes and one subsidiary or its equivalent,
Or

A diploma from an accredited Institution

Purpose:
The qualification prepares learners for both lay and ordained Ministry of the church in a rapidly changing society faced with the challenges of gender injustices, HIV/AIDS, and issues of violence and poverty. The qualification emphasizes a holistic approach to the ministry of the Church in the contemporary African context. This entails the need to be sensitive to the social, economic, political, and spiritual concerns of Africa and beyond. The qualification is focused on theology and ministerial leadership.

Similarities:

St Paul's University (SPU) and the South African (SA) qualifications require the Certificate in Secondary Education.

The SPU and SA qualifications are designed to train learners for roles in ordained ministry, chaplaincy, and other church-related or community leadership positions.

Both qualifications include studies on the Old and New Testaments, with a focus on their relevance to contemporary Africa.

Difference:

The SPU qualification takes four years of full-time study, whereas the SA qualification takes three years of full-time study.

Country: Netherlands
Institution: King's College
Qualification Title: Bachelor of Theology
Duration: 4-years full-time study
Entry Requirements:
Applications must be accompanied by:

Official transcripts from prior post-secondary qualifications

Two reference letters, one of which is a pastoral reference (indicating involvement and service in the church) and another which is an academic reference (indicating academic abilities).

Applicants to The Presbyterian College will also be asked to provide a personal statement of their Christian faith and of their intentions for Christian service in the church or in the wider community.

Purpose:
The Bachelor of Theology is an undergraduate qualification that provides broad instruction in the history, theology, and cultural traditions of Christianity. This qualification equips learners for critical thinking, encourages the development of personal faith, and supports their understanding and respect for those of other religious traditions.

The Bachelor of Theology provides a solid intellectual and academic foundation from which to pursue further, advanced studies in Theology. This might mean a Master of Divinity degree (a professional, ministry program) or a Master of Theology program (an academic program). Learners in this qualification may also go on to further studies and professional lives in Social Work, NGO Administration, Journalism, Teaching, or other fields.

Graduates can pursue a range of careers, including roles in ministry, education, non-profit organizations, and community service. Opportunities exist in counselling, religious leadership, and academic research, enabling graduates to contribute meaningfully to society.

Modules:

Bible and Western Culture

Religion, Politics, and Society

Jesus of Nazareth

The literature of Ancient Israel

Theology of Disability

Similarities:

King's College (PC) and the South African (SA) qualifications share a similar purpose, such as

Both qualifications are designed to help students explore the core beliefs and practices of the Christian faith.

The PC and SA qualifications cover a wide range of topics, including biblical studies, theology, church history, and ministry practices.

The purpose of PC and SA qualifications is to deepen understanding of biblical texts and develop skills for interpreting scripture, while also examining how faith interacts with culture and society. Learners will engage with both historical and contemporary issues in theology to build a solid foundation for either personal growth or future ministry work.
The comparison is between South Africa's Bachelor of Theology, Kenya's St Paul's University, Limuru's Bachelor of Divinity, and the Bachelor of Theology offered by King's College in the Netherlands. On the continent, outside South African borders,

St Paul's University, Limuru's Bachelor of Divinity (BD) was chosen because several of their senior staff furthered their theological studies at UKZN; UKZN's influence is reflected in their curriculum and in the ongoing relationship between the two institutions. The second institution, King's College of the Netherlands, was chosen because it offers a programme named Bachelor of Theology (BTh), but which typifies the issues that this comparison helps to highlight. Further, the three institutions all offer the qualification as a full-time on-campus programme.

Differences:
Limuru's BD is a four-year programme for those without prior theological background, which, when completed, equates to UKZN's BTh Honours degree. Learners with a (Seminary) Diploma in Theology can be credited up to two years of study, and these make up the majority of those who enrol for the BD. By contrast, the BTh offered by King's College explicitly requires that applicants already have a degree or Diploma in Theology. So, despite the 'Bachelor' prefix, both qualifications are not primarily geared at those who have just finished high school, as can be the case with UKZN's BTh. Another difference is that the two qualifications seek to "move a learner to a more professional direction" rather than purely academic. By contrasts, UKZN's BTh tries to keep the professional and academic interests of theological study in creative tension; the attempt is made despite the degree being of shorter duration and the learners being predominantly of lesser privileged backgrounds. UKZN BTh graduates need an extra year of study before entering the Master of Theology programme, whereas Limuru and King's graduates can articulate straight into MTh.

Subjects covered do overlap and will only differ in relation to the level at which they are pitched. All three qualifications cover subjects like Christian Doctrine and Ethics, Biblical Studies, History of Christianity, Ministerial Studies, World Religions. Both UKZN and St Paul's offer Biblical Languages as part of this qualification (albeit as electives in UKZN); King's College presumably expects those to have been covered as part of the prerequisite undergraduate qualification or, less likely, as irrelevant to professional Christian ministry. Because they take four years taught in trimesters, St Paul's BD has sufficient room to cover more foundations as well as offer introductory modules to Psychology, Sociology and Philosophy respectively, and even modules in Entrepreneurship among others,

In all instances, learners are assessed continuously through integrative formative and summative methods.

Concusion:
IIn conclusion, while not many institutions still offer a Bachelor of Theology undergraduate qualification, UKZN's BTh compares favourably with other international players despite being only genuinely undergraduate, three years and six semesters long. Given South Africa's complex socio-political history, growing economic and educational disparities, the high density of non-South African refugees interested in the programme, plus the need for an informed clergy in service of the significant Christian population and beyond, UKZN's BTh degree plays an important role within and beyond South African society.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Bachelor of Arts in Theology, NQF Level 7.

Bachelor of Social Science, NQF Level 7.

Bachelor of Theology in Christian Ministry, NQF Level 7.

Vertical Articulation:

Bachelor of Arts Honours in Theology, NQF Level 8.

Bachelor of Theology Honours in Biblical Studies, NQF Level 8.

Bachelor of Theology Honours, NQF Level 8.

Postgraduate Diploma in Theology, NQF Level 8.

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:

When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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.	University of KwaZulu-Natal