Graduate Diploma in Christian Studies

BL5234 Old Testament Introduction

The subject helps the student to understand how the 39 books are categorised under the Law, the Prophets and the Writings. In each category the student will understand the historical background, the literary structure and the message of each book. The student will discover the theological themes of each book and how they fit with the entire theological schema of the Old Testament (Covenant-Blessing, Judgment-Redemption, Election-Holiness).

BL5264 New Testament Introduction

This subject helps the student to understand how the 27 books are categorised under the Gospels, Acts, the Epistles (Pauline epistles and General epistles) and Revelation. In each category the student will understand the historical background, the literary structure and the message of each book. The student will discover the theological themes of each book and how they fit with the entire theological schema of the New Testament (Salvation-Discipleship, Holy Spirit-Miracles, Kingdom of God-Church).

HD5024 Research Writing

This subject aims to introduce students to a proper approach to writing academic research papers. Topics covered include the use of reference tools, identification of research issues and organisation of materials. Students will also learn to formulate thesis statements and develop relevant supporting arguments.

IC5024 Asian Religions

This course provides an understanding of prevailing religions in Asia. The historical development, belief system and the contemporary practices of each religion will be explored in this course. It will also examine Christianity’s encounters with each of these religions and discuss the missiological implications for the growth of Christianity in Asia.

IC5104 Study of Missions

This module provides students with a biblical and theological overview of missions. Through tracing the historical development of Christianity from the early church to the twentieth century, students will gain an understanding of the missionary approaches and strategies taken in a cross-cultural setting. Contemporary issues and their implications to missions will also be discussed.

PC5014 Foundations for Pastoral Counselling & Guidance

This subject aims to provide students with a holistic understanding of the theory and practice of counselling and guidance. Students will have an overview of the various counselling approaches and positions taken by the secular, the medical and the Christian world. They will understand the roles of Christian counsellors and people helpers, their essential qualities and the processes and skills involved in counselling and guidance. Students will also discuss issues related to youths and young adults.

SF5124 Foundations for Evangelism and Discipleship

This subject uses the Gospel of Mark as a framework for drawing principles from the life and ministry of Jesus. This subject integrates biblical and theological insights with marketing perspectives to help students understand the disciplines of evangelism and discipleship holistically. At the practical level, students will learn to prepare and share the gospel and personal testimony. They will also have the opportunity to relate with different people groups and understand their needs.

SF5044 Foundations for Spiritual Disciplines

This subject aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of the spiritual disciplines essential for a vibrant Christian life. Students will learn about the theoretical foundations and experiential practice of spiritual disciplines. They will explore prayer as the spiritual breath of all spiritual disciplines. Areas of spiritual disciplines covered include meditation, fasting, the practice of solitude, silence and Sabbath rest, corporate worship, discipline of ministry. Students will discuss the importance of humility and confession in church life, submission, partnership with the Spirit of God and living a consistent and balanced spiritual life.

TH5274 Ethics

In this module, students learn to inform ethical models from a theological and spiritual lens. Students will appreciate Christian values and their application to real-world situations. The module prepares students to become effective Christian leaders who may lighten up the marketplace and communities by speaking, acting, and living out what is morally right in diverse life situations that are ethically dubious.

TH5214 Pentecostal-Charismatic Studies

Pentecostal-Charismatic Studies traces the biblical and theological teachings on the person and the work of the Holy Spirit. Students will have a broad overview of the historical developments of the work of Holy Spirit, from the first wave to the fourth, and into the contemporary movements. The place of rites and rituals within Pentecostal-Charismatic spirituality will also be explored. In addition, they will also learn from the example of Jesus as one who embodies the kerygma or proclamation. They will learn how they can live as kerygmatics through the cultivation of the word and worship life, and the exercise of their spiritual gifts.

TH5044 Survey of Church History

This subject aims to acquaint students with the major periods of Christian History and to recognise God’s work through each period. Students will examine key historical issues in the history of the church, with reference to key personalities and events. They will look at the reasons for the various issues that arose and consider their implications for society today. Students will also trace the development of the church in Southeast Asia, with a special focus on Singapore.

Apprenticeship

The apprenticeship programme consists of a series of supervised field education modules. The programme seeks to develop competencies and proficiencies—in evangelism and discipleship, pastoral care and counselling, teaching and learning, etc.—through experiential learning.

In general, admission to the Asian Pastoral Institute is based upon Christian commitment and experience, as well as academic record. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree [Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 out of 4] or its equivalent, and two Forms of Reference from a pastor / church elder and one other Christian leader from their church. If an applicant does not meet the minimum academic requirements, the applicant may be considered for probationary or special admission depending on the merits of the case.

The Graduate Diploma in Christian Studies is a 46-credit programme. Students would be awarded a Graduate Diploma in Christian Studies if they

• successfully complete 11 taught modules with a GPA of minimally 2.7 out of 4
• fulfil all requirements of 90 hours of apprenticeship
• demonstrate a godly character, integrity, and discipline in guided supervision
• fulfil all requirements within the maximum candidature of four years