Graduate Diploma in Pastoral Studies

Curriculum

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).

HD5034 Foundations for Teaching & Learning

This subject aims to introduce students to the theory and practice of teaching and learning. Students will learn different educational theories and age group characteristics developed by Skinner, Piaget, Erikson and Knowles. The learning model adopted by this subject is a dynamic equilibrium of andragogic and pedagogic teaching and learning approaches. Students will integrate this learning model with important educational issues such as motivation, creativity, correction and discipline, and evaluation in the teaching process. They will also discuss the concept of lifelong learning and teaching for transformation.

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.

PC5034 Developmental Themes in Counselling Psychology

This subject enhances the students’ understanding of human development in relation to the biopsychosocial and spiritual factors which influence growth and changes over the lifespan. Students will be introduced to developmental themes across different life stages and understand its relevance for counselling practice and faith-based perspectives. They will also gain skills in using questioning and interviewing techniques to assess the developmental background of a person during counselling sessions.

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.

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 the society today. Students will also trace the development of the church in Southeast Asia, with a special focus on Singapore.

WM5011 Music Theory / Voice 1

The aim of this subject is to help students appreciate music through learning elementary note readings (e.g. simple time signature, note values) and major and harmonic minor scales up to 4 sharps and 4 flats.  Students will learn chord playing mainly in C major and D major on the keyboard. They will also learn techniques of choral singing through singing of Christmas hymns.

WM5021 Music Theory / Voice 2

The aim of this subject is to help students appreciate music through learning compound time signature, the relation between simple and compound time, melodic minor scales, and tonic triads of major and minor scales.  Students will learn chord playing mainly in E major and G major on the keyboard. They will also learn techniques of choral singing through singing of Good Friday/Easter hymns.

WM5031 Music Theory / Voice 3

The aim of this subject is to help students appreciate music through learning basic intervals, elementary music writing (e.g. phrase structure, rhythm), instruments and their performance directions.  Students will learn chord playing in minor key and playing melody with chord accompaniment in C major on the keyboard. They will also learn techniques of choral singing through singing hymns of comfort or declarative praise.

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.

Standards for Admission

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.

Graduation Requirements

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

• successfully complete 13 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