Graduate Diploma Religious Studies Full Time

Graduate Diploma in Chaplaincy

at Murdoch University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

080710G

CRICOS provider code

00125J

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$29,880 total

Per year

A$29,880/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Graduate Diploma in Chaplaincy at Murdoch University introduces the knowledge and practical skills needed for chaplaincy work in Australia. This one-year postgraduate course covers core topics such as pastoral care, spiritual and religious diversity, ethics in chaplaincy, crisis intervention, and self-care for practitioners. Students examine the role of chaplains in hospitals, schools, the military, correctional services, and other community settings.

The qualification is structured around a sequence of units of study, each with its own credit point value. Coursework typically includes both classroom and online modes, alongside field-based activities. Many students complete a professional placement, giving them direct experience in accredited Australian chaplaincy workplaces. As part of their course, students often engage in case study analysis and reflective practice.

By the end of the course, participants improve their ability to provide emotional and spiritual support to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Skills developed include active listening, crisis response, ethical decision-making, and interfaith engagement. The graduate diploma suits those already working in pastoral care, teachers, social workers, or those seeking to enter chaplaincy roles in public or private institutions.

Murdoch University’s Perth location provides links to local religious organisations, hospitals, and community groups, opening up placement opportunities and industry contacts. International students must meet English proficiency requirements, and have access to work rights in Australia, which allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study. Upon graduation, those holding student visas may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Always confirm course details on the official Murdoch University and CRICOS websites.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Chaplain in schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, defence forces, or aged care
Pastoral care worker in community or faith-based organisations
Spiritual care coordinator in healthcare or social service agencies
Support roles in religious or secular non-profit organisations throughout Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Diploma in Chaplaincy at Murdoch University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$29,880 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Chaplain in schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, defence forces, or aged carePastoral care worker in community or faith-based organisationsSpiritual care coordinator in healthcare or social service agenciesSupport roles in religious or secular non-profit organisations thr...

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