NQF 7 · 360 Credits · Undergraduate Degree

Bachelor of Theology in Community Leadership

A contemporary approach to studying Theology and Ethics, focused on Christ-centred, biblical thought and practical, Spirit-filled leadership in urbanised African contexts. Available in both Contact and Distance modes to suit your lifestyle.

  • Accredited by the CHE
  • Registered with DHET
  • Ref: H/PRO96/E019CAN (Distance)
Aim of the Programme

Contemporary theology. Practical leadership.

The programme offers a contemporary approach to studying Theology and Ethics. Students learn to value a Christ-centred and Biblical approach to theological thought and how to respond practically in various ministerial contexts with sound and Spirit-filled leadership skills.

The programme enables students to reflect on faith practices, spirituality, leadership styles, human dignity, life in communion with others, and social justice in and for an urbanised African context. Students from different Christian traditions learn to listen and discuss their faith expressions and engage with various theological notions.

BTh students are empowered to customise their fieldwork, keeping their career goals, vocation, and interests in mind — ensuring they're fully equipped for specific ministries.

  • Analyse the Bible as an ancient text and interpret it as the Word of God for today
  • Articulate and evaluate faith expressions of central doctrines
  • Analyse and synthesise the historical development of faith expressions and doctrines
  • Evaluate various leadership styles and design strategies to empower leadership potential in others
  • Evaluate community leadership strategies that foster human flourishing and social cohesion
  • Critically analyse the nature of Christian communities and their social ethics responses
  • Demonstrate practical leadership through personal maturity, strategic communication, and resource mapping
  • Apply pastoral care theories to counselling and utilise spiritual formation practices
  • Conduct independent research into community leadership or the theological notion of vocation

Watch the programme overview

Time Commitment & Mode

How you can study.

Duration

Minimum three years full-time. Can also be taken part-time — maximum nine years. Extended Programme available for eligible applicants.

Delivery Mode

Offered in both Contact and Distance modes. Choose the format that best suits your lifestyle and location.

Intakes

Two intakes per year — January and July. Apply early to secure your place.

Disclaimer

If the required number is not reached by the end of the registration period, the programme will only receive new students in the next registration period. New students already registered for the programme will be advised on the options available to them, and paid fees will be refunded where applicable. Students who have already completed one or more semesters will not be affected.

Target Groups

Who this is for.

The BTh in Community Leadership aims to provide access for Grade 12 learners and mature first- and second-career students to a degree programme equipping them with skills to be more effective leaders in the community.

Focus areas include:

  • Church ministry & pastoral leadership
  • Community development
  • Counselling & pastoral care
  • Biblical & theological studies
  • Public engagement & advocacy
Admission Requirements

Standard entry.

  1. 01 A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a bachelor's pass or equivalent.
  2. 02 A Matriculation Certificate (with university exemption) or equivalent.
  3. 03 A Higher Certificate, Advanced Certificate, or Diploma in a cognate field.
  4. 04 National Benchmark Test (NBT) results.
Alternative Admission (Senate Approval)
  1. 05 NSC or NCV with a diploma pass combined with NBT results.
  2. 06 Mature age of 23+ during first year with NSC (RPL conditions and NBT results determine admission).
  3. 07 Mature age of 45+ can be admitted, determined by RPL conditions and NBT results.
  4. 08 Applicants in the first category must register for the Extended Programme for Academic Development (minimum 4 years).
Accreditation

Fully accredited.

Registered as Cornerstone Institute (RF) NPC with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) as a private higher education institution under the Higher Education Act, 1997. Registration Certificate No: 2001/HE08/006. NQF Level 7, DHET registered. Accredited by the CHE as a 360-credit programme at NQF Level 7.

  • SAQA ID57225
  • CHE Ref (Distance)H/PRO96/E019CAN
  • CHE Ref (Contact)H/PRO96/K005CAN
  • NQF Level7
Resources

Everything you need, in one place.

Ready to lead with purpose?

Applications are open for the January and July intakes.

Cornerstone Institute
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