Diploma of Higher Education

The Diploma of Higher Education in Salvation Army Officer Training forms the core of the officer training programme, which aims to develop Christian leaders of integrity.

Alongside academic study, cadets undertake placements and personal initiative projects in the community, including hands-on involvement in local hospitals, prisons and social centres. Most importantly, the programme centres on the spiritual growth and leadership development of each person..

Cadets usually undertake a two-year course: year one at certificate level, year two at diploma level. The course is divided into four 'fields' of work and is subject to continuous assessment rather than formal examinations. The four fields are:

• Personal Growth and Spiritual Development
• Biblical Studies, including biblical interpretation and Old and New Testament studies
• Ministry and Mission, including pastoral ministry, management and communication skills, and mission studies
• Faith and Practice, including Salvationist doctrine, Church and Salvation Army history, and contemporary society and Christian ethics

Training culminates in commissioning and ordination as a Salvation Army officer, usually with the rank of Lieutenant, which also makes you an accredited minister of religion.

Officership is a lifelong commitment and needs to be undertaken after deep thought and prayer. Only if you have a genuine love for people, a deeply-rooted faith and sense of personal mission, and have gained the relevant knowledge and skills, can you be appointed as a Salvation Army officer.

Due to the specific and vocational nature of the programme, no arrangements exist for direct student transfer. Accreditation for prior learning and experience are available to successful applicants in accordance with academic regulations.