Ageing

The Accreditation Certificate in Ageing (Ethics and Pastoral Care) allows students to take part in focused learning that can assist them to undertake pastoral care functions from community and residential settings notably in church sponsored aged care facilities. Graduates should be able to articulate insights out of some theological and ecclesial understandings of pastoral care.

The Master of Arts (Theology) in Ageing at the University of Divinity offers a comprehensive exploration of the theological, ethical, social, and biblical issues associated with aging and later life. This program is designed for students who are interested in understanding the spiritual dimensions of aging, caring for older adults, and addressing the societal implications of an increasingly aging population. Throughout the course, students will engage with a wide range of topics including theology of aging, pastoral care, bioethics, community support, and interfaith perspectives on aging.

The program combines academic rigor with practical application, equipping students with the skills to develop compassionate pastoral practices and contribute meaningfully to policies and programs that support older adults and their families. Core subjects cover biblical and theological perspectives on aging and death, ethics around end-of-life issues, and strategies for caregiving and community engagement. Students will also study contemporary social issues such as ageism, elder abuse, and social isolation, gaining insights into how faith communities and society can foster inclusion and well-being for seniors.

Lectures, seminars, and reflective assessments are integral parts of the curriculum, encouraging students to critically analyse theological concepts and their relevance to real-world challenges faced by aging individuals. The program emphasizes interprofessional learning and invites collaboration with healthcare professionals, social workers, and chaplains to foster a holistic approach to aging and pastoral care.

Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to serve as leaders in faith communities, ethical consultants, or educators in organizations dedicated to aging and elder care. They will be equipped with a deep understanding of the spiritual needs of older adults, alongside practical tools for supporting them through life’s transitions, grief, and the pursuit of a meaningful aging process. This program is ideal for clergy, chaplains, social workers, healthcare professionals, and anyone committed to enhancing the dignity, quality of life, and spiritual well-being of older members of our communities.

The Ageing program at the University of Divinity is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the complex issues related to ageing, including its biological, psychological, social, and theological dimensions. The program aims to prepare graduates to engage thoughtfully and compassionately with the ageing population in various professional contexts, such as pastoral care, social work, health services, and community engagement. The curriculum includes core courses that explore the biological processes of aging, theories of human development, and the sociocultural factors influencing aging experiences. Students are also introduced to theological perspectives on life, death, and dignity, emphasizing the spiritual needs of older adults. Practical components such as internships, community service projects, and case studies are incorporated to ensure students gain real-world experience and develop skills in communication, empathy, and ethical decision-making. Admission requirements typically include a completed undergraduate degree and demonstrated interest or experience in pastoral care, health, or social services related to ageing. The program may also require students to participate in reflective coursework, essays, and presentations to facilitate critical thinking and synthesis of interdisciplinary perspectives. Further prerequisites may include relevant work experience or references, depending on the specific entry pathway. The duration of study varies, often structured as a part-time or full-time program, with opportunities for advanced standing or credit transfer for prior qualifications. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to contribute effectively to services dedicated to ageing populations while maintaining a strong ethical and spiritual grounding in their professional practices. The program emphasizes lifelong learning, ethical responsibility, and cultural sensitivity to effectively serve diverse older populations in an increasingly aging society.

The financing options for the Ageing program at the University of Divinity are designed to accommodate a diverse range of students, including both domestic and international applicants. Students can explore various methods of funding their studies, including government-subsidized loans, scholarships, bursaries, and payment plans offered by the university. Australian citizens and permanent residents may be eligible for government student loans such as the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which covers tuition fees and allows repayment through the tax system once the student’s income exceeds a certain threshold. International students typically finance their studies through personal savings, family assistance, or private loans, as government support is generally not available for non-citizens.

The university also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries based on merit, need, or special criteria, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. These scholarships may be awarded at the commencement of studies or throughout the program based on academic performance or community involvement. Additionally, students have the flexibility to arrange payment plans, making it easier to manage tuition fees over the duration of their studies.

Financial aid advice is available through the university’s student services team, which provides guidance on eligibility criteria and application procedures. It is recommended that prospective students review the specific financial support options provided by the University of Divinity and explore external funding opportunities, including government and private sector scholarships, to optimize their financial planning. Overall, the university aims to make education accessible by providing comprehensive and flexible financing options tailored to support students enrolled in the Ageing program.

The University of Divinity offers a specialized program focusing on Ageing, designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and skills related to the social, psychological, theological, and health aspects of aging. This program aims to equip graduates with the ability to understand the complexities of aging populations and to contribute effectively in fields such as pastoral care, health services, social work, and policy development. Students enrolled in the Ageing program engage with a diverse curriculum that integrates biblical perspectives with contemporary research on aging and age-related issues. The coursework often includes modules on spirituality and aging, pastoral care of the elderly, ethical considerations, and community engagement strategies tailored to older adults. Coursework is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical placements that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The program is suitable for those seeking to work in religious, community, or health contexts where understanding the needs of aging populations is essential. The University of Divinity's focus on theological education ensures that students also explore the spiritual dimensions of aging, emphasizing compassion, dignity, and pastoral support. Graduates from the program are well-prepared to serve in diverse roles such as chaplains, community workers, policy advisors, or educators specializing in issues related to aging. The program emphasizes research, critical thinking, and compassionate engagement, making it relevant in a society with an increasingly aging demographic. The University of Divinity’s supportive academic environment fosters interdisciplinary learning and offers opportunities for networking with professionals across sectors involved in aging care. The program usually spans one to two years, depending on whether students undertake part-time or full-time study, and often requires students to complete a capstone project or thesis that reflects their specialization within aging. Overall, this program combines theological insights, social science, health considerations, and practical skills to prepare graduates for meaningful careers addressing the challenges and opportunities of aging in contemporary society.