Bachelor of Philosophy/Bachelor of Theology

The Bachelor of Philosophy/Bachelor of Theology epitomises The University of Notre Dame Australia's commitment to Catholic principles of thought as it combines a detailed study of philosophy and theology.

Designed to be completed over five years of full-time study, this comprehensive degree investigates the history of Western philosophy as it constantly engages with ideas of theological significance. You will delve into foundational philosophical principles while simultaneously exploring the teachings and traditions of the Church in Catholic Theology.

This degree will take you from the beginnings of Western thought in ancient philosophy through the medieval and modern periods so that you can grapple with contemporary philosophical and theological issues.

The study of theology takes you to the heart of the Catholic tradition so that you learn about the development of the Church. You will be encouraged to reflect philosophically and theologically, using appropriate methods that enable investigation of the history of ideas, up to the present day, and Scripture and Tradition, to contemplate the Trinity, the life and teachings of Christ, and ways in which faith and reason constantly work together and enrich each other.

Upon graduation, you may pursue various careers, including academic research, teaching, foreign affairs, public administration, policy development, advocacy, social work, journalism, advertising, Church ministry and politics.

Do you have a desire to pursue religious education or expand your knowledge of philosophy and theology? The Bachelor of Philosophy/Bachelor of Theology double degree at The University of Notre Dame Australia will engage you in subjects as diverse as Sacramental and Moral Theology, Critical Thinking, Metaphysics and Philosophy of the Human Person. You will be provided with a comprehensive education in philosophy and theology within the Western tradition of thought and graduate knowing how to think, reason and argue at an advanced level – skills that are in high demand along any career path you choose and in all walks of life. This double degree provides an opportunity to study these interrelated disciplines within the context of the Catholic University and Catholic Tradition. Modelled on the Ratio for Australia and in response to the 2011 Decree on the Reform of Ecclesiastical Studies of Philosophy, this program offers a unique chance to all students to follow the requirements for seminarians and those pursuing religious education. Contact us to find out more.

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Philosophy graduates should be able to:

1. Articulate a broad and coherent body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in the discipline of philosophy as a basis for independent lifelong learning
2. Critically analyse, consolidate, and synthesise knowledge
3. Demonstrate technical skills to a broad understanding of knowledge with depth in philosophy
4. Exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence
5. Communicate and present a clear, coherent, and independent exposition of philosophical knowledge and concepts
6. Apply philosophical reflection, knowledge, and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed theoretical and practical judgement, and ethical responsibility

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Theology graduates should be able to:

1. Articulate a broad and coherent body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in the discipline of theology as a basis for independent lifelong learning
2. Critically, analyse, consolidate, and synthesise knowledge
3. Demonstrate technical skills to a broad understanding of knowledge with depth in theology
4. Exercise critical thinking and judgement for identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence
5. Communicate and present a clear, coherent, and independent exposition of theological knowledge and concepts; and
6. Apply theological reflection, knowledge, and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed theoretical and practical judgement, and ethical responsibility.

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Graduates of this program can follow diverse career paths in the private and public sectors. Career opportunities range from:

• Academic teaching
• Public libraries
• Research institutes
• Church ministry and agencies
• Parish adult faith programs
• Education and teaching (upon completion of a graduate-entry teaching qualification)
• International diplomacy
• Trade missions
• Journalism
• Editing
• Media
• Script writing
• Advertising
• Catholic and Christian schools
• Pastoral counselling
• Religious education coordination
• Youth work

You can apply directly to the University and there is no application fee.

To apply, please complete the online application form and submit it with all supporting documents.

If you prefer, you can download a print version of the international application form. The application form also contains questions relating to Genuine Temporary Entrant assessment. For more information, please download the International Program Guide.

• What you'll need to apply

  • Certified copies of your academic basis for entry
  • Certified copies of proof of English language proficiency
  • Certified copy of your proof of citizenship/residency
  • Certified copies of existing Australian visa and/or OSHC (if applicable)
  • Evidence of your ability to pay tuition fees and living expenses while in Australia

• Admissions process

  Our admissions process comprises four easy steps:

  1. Apply – direct or via an education agent
  2. Receive your offer – successful applicants receive an offer via email
  3. Accept - your offer and make fee payment
  4. Enrol – receive your eCoE and apply for your student visa (if applicable), and enrol at Notre Dame