WHY STUDY AT ST FRANCIS COLLEGE?
For four reasons:
The teaching is exemplary and accessible
We are a contemporary Anglican theological college. We draw deeply on the Bible and the best of biblical scholarship; on our Anglican heritage and what Christians have taught and practised in the past; and on what reason and experience suggest. In responding to 21st century issues, we encourage open and enquiring minds that look for the intersection between knowledge and practice of the Christian faith.
The buildings and grounds are conducive to study
The College is a ‘hidden garden’, an oasis of nine acres in the middle of Milton. The setting invites a student to reflection and study. The College’s buildings - historic and modern - include a Chapel, in which prayer is said every day, and which stands as a symbol of the deeper realities of life.
The library collection is unique
We have one of the best theological library collections in Queensland.
The community is caring
The administrative and teaching staff, the residential community and the many others who use our facilities for meetings or other gatherings are marked by friendliness and helpfulness.
Our various subjects in theology are open to anyone. Many of our students are candidates for ordination but the majority of people are simply seeking a deeper understanding of their Christian faith.
TESTIMONIES
“Study at SFC has greatly strengthened the depth and breadth of my theological knowledge and helped me to understand the diverse range of theological viewpoints in a respectful and inquisitive way.”
“I would absolutely recommend study at SFC to anyone who is interested in deepening their knowledge and faith. Beyond the academic, this is a community and a fellowship that will help you on your journey.”
“Having a better understanding of context, interpretation, translation and application brings everything alive in a different way.”
“Students have considerable life experience to share and bring into discussion, which makes for lively and diverse conversation.”
“The SFC environment is one that offers support in a nurturing and caring way, and at the same time is always challenging me.”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I have to take a degree?
As a member of the School of Theology at Charles Sturt University we offer theological courses at various levels, from a University Certificate to a PhD. The most common courses are the Graduate Certificate in Theology and the BTh. You can also opt to take a single subject that is not linked to a degree program. There is also the option to audit a subject.
What is Auditing?
Auditing a subject means attending and participating in classes, and if desired, completing assignments and receiving a mark. However, auditing precludes formal university recognition, that is, receiving any university academic credit. The appeal of auditing is that it is not expensive and is a good option for those who want to further their theological understanding at a tertiary level without seeking to gain a degree.
The cost to audit a subject is $200. To audit a subject please see the current Semester Timetable (click and scroll down) and enrol via Eventbrite, or call the Registrar, Suzie Anthonisz, at 35147403.
How expensive is tertiary theological study?
Costs vary according to the level of study (Certificate or BTh or PhD). The cost of a theology subject for a BTh degree is set by CSU and is currently around $1,800 per subject. This is similar to other programs in the Humanities. A language subject is however currently around $400 per subject.
The BTh is a Commonwealth-funded program and students may either pay up-front or defer fees through the Higher Education Contribution scheme (HECS). Fees for post-graduate programs can also be paid up-front or deferred through the FEE-Help program.
To find out more about CSU fees
Are classes at SFC only?
Lectures are given at SFC, Milton. However, those living some distance away can log in via ‘Zoom’ and listen and participate through Zoom. As well, all lectures are recorded and can be made available later in audio or audio-visual formats.