Higher Certificate in Christian Ministry

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to provide learners with a foundation of the basic knowledge and practical ministry skills required to serve as leaders in faith and church communities as part of social change in broader society.

Rationale

Noting the reach and impact of faith communities in South Africa today, the need for professionally trained leaders in faith communities is well defined. However, noting the intensity of social challenges the country faces, a demand specifically for faith leaders well versed in and capable of leading community change steadily grows.

This is especially the case for churches in historically disadvantaged communities that face the most severe of circumstances, but whose faith often lack the formal training and qualifications required to continue their ministry, and/or to enter First-Degree level qualifications. This Higher Certificate is designed to fill this gap.

The qualification is designed to respond to these needs and so represent the institution's commitment to offer original content that foregrounds the practice of ministry as key part of teaching and learning. To do so the qualification merges more traditional theological and biblical curriculum and classroom instruction with current and relevant fieldwork (service learning) to realise its goal of knowledge and skills development for the practice of ministry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Learners may apply for RPL according to the Institution's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policies and procedures. Learners need to submit a portfolio of evidence that will be assessed for admission purposes.

Entry Requirements

The minimum admission requirements for this qualification are

• National Senior Certificate, Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.

Or

• National Certificate Vocational, Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.

Or

• Matriculation Certificate.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at Level 5 totalling 122 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 122 Credits

• Christian Spirituality: Foundations, 16 Credits.
• Counselling and Life Skills, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Theology, 12 Credits.
• Pastoral Care Theory, 8 Credits.
• Biblical Studies 1A, 12 Credits.
• Biblical Studies 1 B, 12 Credits.
• Christian Ministry Practical, 6 Credits.
• Worldviews, 6 Credits.
• Ethics, 12 Credits.
• Leadership Studies, 6 Credits.
• Intercultural Communication, 12 Credits.
• Academic Skills, 4 Credits.
• Information (computer) Skills, 4 Credits.

1. Read, interpret and explain the various genres of writings found in the Bible, and relate them to the major doctrines of the Christian church.
2. Interpret the Bible and show its relevance for meeting pastoral and community needs in South Africa.
3. Identify and explain the foundational beliefs of the Christian faith and its development throughout history.
4. Demonstrate a foundational understanding of Christian beliefs and practices.
5. Articulate orally and/or in writing one's own beliefs about doctrinal issues.
6. Assess various leadership styles and identify own particular style of leadership.
7. Explain the basic principles of leadership and identify various styles of leadership.
8. Identify individual leadership style and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of that style.
9. Demonstrate competence in the skills necessary for effective leadership, including communication, planning, resource development, implementation and evaluation.
10. Demonstrate effective communication skills with small and large groups.
11. Demonstrate the basics of how to counsel people on a low level, minister to youth and children, and/or minister to those of other cultures in South Africa.

Associated Assessment Criteria are applied in an integrated way to the Exit level Outcomes, and include

• Demonstrated observation, listening and communication skills in verbal and written formats.
• Demonstrated critical understanding of the theory and practice of Christian ministry.
• Demonstrated independent and critical thinking and decision-making in evaluating and implementing ministry plans and projects.

Integrated Assessment

(Summative, Formative and or WIL)

1.1. Continuous assessment: The student's ability to integrate the elements of the qualification is assessed through tasks, activities and self-assessment.

1.2. Formative and summative assessment: Student competency is assessed through presentations, personal interviews, service learning (under supervision), written assignments (e.g., reports, skills development exercises, case study responses, research papers, journals, verbatim) and written evaluations (e.g., quizzes, class tests, mid-module exams, final exams

1.3. Student may gain credit through RPL for certain modules bases on an assessment of acceptable prior learning earned through formal/non formal/informal learning. If the previous work completed is at the same NQF level, then credit is applied.