2 September 2024

Diploma in Theology #3 (DEPTh 3)

The Distance Education Program in Theology (DEPTh) is offered by the Vidyajothi College of Theology in collaboration with the Archdiocesan Pastoral Institute, Kuala Lumpur (API). This is a 3.5 years online study programme in Catholic theology leading to a Diploma in Theology. This is the third time the course is being offered in Malaysia, the first being from 2016-2019, second from 2020 - 2023. The advantage of this Distance learning course is that you can study theology from home or wherever you may be. The programme is open to people of all walks of life and backgrounds who desire to deepen their Christian faith and search for avenues for deeper participation in the life and mission of the Church.

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • DEPTh consists of two phases of study with 30 credits each. Each phase will have about 17 modules, and therefore, may take up to 17 months. The modules are intended to cover key aspects of the Scriptures and Theology.

 

  • During the programme, you will be using an online education management system called ‘Schoology’.

 

  • The primary resource for each lesson is the Course material provided by Vidyajothi College which will be made available on ‘Schoology’. Every lesson will include questions for self-study and reflection, and provide indications of books and commentaries which can help deepen your knowledge. In this way, you are encouraged to relate the subject matter of each lesson with your faith experience and daily life; you may also discuss it with people in your contacts.

 

  • Participants are expected to study the Course materials and respond to the assignment questions for each lesson. Usually, participants are given 1-2 months to study the Course materials, to respond to, and submit each assignment paper.

 

  • There will be four 2-day contact classes arranged over the three-year period in order to facilitate learning and to encourage interaction between the participants. All registered participants are expected to attend these contact classes. The classes will be held at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre, Kuala Lumpur. Dates for the contact classes will be provided later.

 

  • The written examination at the end of each phase consists of two papers.

 

  • The participant is expected to complete the study programme within a minimum period of three years. The registration, however, is valid for a maximum period of four years.

 

  • Since this is a Distance Education Programme, participants are expected to be able to work in an independent and responsible manner in order to succeed in their studies.

PAYMENT

  • The cost for the entire 3-year programme is RM2,500.00
  • There will also be a one-time registration fee of RM500.00 (Non-refundable)
  • Course payment of RM2,500.00 can be made either in full or 2 simultaneous payments.

SELECTION OF CANDIDATES

  • Our experience with the first and second batch of participants has shown us that many who signed up and paid fully for the programme were unable to keep up with their studies due to various reasons, but mainly because they lacked the basic knowledge of the Catholic faith. Eventually, they dropped out of the programme. We do not wish you to face the same problem.

 

  • In order to assist you in this matter and to evaluate your present readiness for the programme, API has decided that everyone who wishes to register for the programme has also to undergo a simple entrance examination. This examination will consist a written assessment which the interested person must complete and submit together with the registration form by 31 October 2024. 

 

  • Upon receiving your registration and written examination script, API will conduct a review from 1 – 30 November (1 month) to decide whether you are ready to start this level of theological studies. Those who are selected will be informed about your participation after 30th November 2024.

ENTRY REQUIREMENT

  • A Pass in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM / O Level).
  • Proficient in the English language.
  • Have frequently attended formation programmes in the parish or Church.
  • Residing in Malaysia.
  • It is highly recommended that candidates have sufficient computer skills to manage their studies online.

TIMELINE FOR REGISTRATION, SELECTION AND PAYMENT*

DATE
Up to 31st Oct 2024 Submission of registration form and the answer scripts of entrance exam
From 1 – 30 November 2024 Review and selection of candidates
After 30 November 2024 Selected participants will be informed
More information on the course and details for payment will be provided.
By 31 December 2024 Registration fee RM500.00 (Non-refundable)
By 31 January 2025 Course payment RM2,500.00
On 15 & 16 February 2025 Selected students to attend orientation and weekend contact classes

Important notice:

  • Selected participants who wish to make the full payment from the start may do so.

 

  • Selected participants who do not pay the registration fee and course payment by

    31 December 2024 and 31 January 2025 respectively will not be accepted.

 

  • Monies already paid will not be refunded once the course starts on 1 March 2025.


Download Application Form:

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