This programme offers general theological education to students who have passed the National Senior Certificate with admission to Diploma studies. It also provides a basis for denominational programmes, formation and practical training with a view to the ministry.

People study theology for various reasons, and not only to make it their profession. Some find it a fascinating field that they would like to explore, whereas others search for spiritual enrichment through study, or may want to gain insights that will help them to function more effectively in the workplace. The Faculty also offers programmes that will benefit students who do not necessarily want to become ministers but would like to enrich their lives and faith experience.

The Theology and Religion programme deals with the fundamental questions of life:

• How do faith and religion influence people’s lives and society?
• How does one approach ethical and moral questions in the workplace?
• How do theological insights promote good human resource practices?
• How does one cultivate ecological sensitivity and awareness?
• How do Christians relate to laws?
• How do religious values contribute to peace and good human relations?
• Can crime be stopped by appealing to people’s beliefs and values?
• What is the meaning and purpose of life?
• Where does one find answers to the most profound life questions?
• How does one gain a better understanding of humanity to make a difference in the world?
• What kind of leaders are needed to shape society and the world?

Some students feel called to work in churches as ministers, pastors, priests, lay preachers,  missionaries or youth workers, and for them studying theology is the way to go. With continued studies, others find their calling in serving the community as social workers, development workers, chaplains, psychologists, teachers, journalists or writers. Others will become engineers, lawyers or entrepreneurs. For all, studying theology will contribute to a greater understanding of humanity and society.

For more information, please consult the Faculty webpage.

Ministers, pastors, priests, lay preachers in certain denominations, missionaries and youth counsellors. Candidates should consult their church leadership on which programme would best suit their aims. The Diploma in Theology is intended for candidates who have completed NSC/IEB (or equivalent), but without the required university admission.

Important information for all prospective students for 2023

The admission requirements below apply to all who apply for admission to the University of Pretoria with a National Senior Certificate (NSC) and Independent Examination Board (IEB) qualifications. Click here for this Faculty Brochure.

Applicants who indicate Theology as a first or second choice will be considered. Students who select Theology as a second choice may have to submit a motivation.

Life Orientation is excluded when calculating the APS. 

You will be considered for final admission to diploma studies if space allows, and if you have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification with admission to diploma studies, and comply with the minimum subject requirements as well as the APS requirements of your chosen programme.

Applicants with qualifications other than the abovementioned should refer to the Brochure: Undergraduate Programme Information 2023: Qualifications other than the NSC and IEB, available at click here.

International students: Click here.

Transferring students

A transferring student is a student who, at the time of applying at the University of Pretoria (UP) is/was a registered student at another tertiary institution. A transferring student will be considered for admission based on NSC or equivalent qualification and previous academic performance. Students who have been dismissed from other institutions due to poor academic performance will not be considered for admission to UP.

Closing dates: Same as above.

Returning students

A returning student is a student who, at the time of application for a degree programme is/was a registered student at UP, and wants to transfer to another degree at UP. A returning student will be considered for admission based on NSC or equivalent qualification and previous academic performance.

Note:

• Students who have been excluded/dismissed from a faculty due to poor academic performance may be considered for admission to another programme at UP, as per faculty-specific requirements.
• Only ONE transfer between UP faculties and TWO transfers within a faculty will be allowed.
• Admission of returning students will always depend on the faculty concerned and the availability of space in the programmes for which they apply.

Closing date for applications from returning students

Unless capacity allows for an extension of the closing date, applications from returning students must be submitted before the end of August via your UP Student Centre.

All modules will only be presented in English, as English is the language of tuition, communication and correspondence at the University of Pretoria.

Faculty Yearbooks: click here. 

The University of Pretoria has decided not to set a specific closing date for applications to non-selection programmes for 2023. Applications will close when the available study spaces are filled (close on availability of space). Once the available number of study places for a specific programme are filled, no further applications for that particular programme will be considered. All applicants are therefore strongly advised and encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible after 1 April 2022 and to check the application site (UP Student Portal) regularly. 

The Faculty of Theology and Religion is one of the leading theological institutions in South Africa and in Africa at large. It is known for its quality research, relevant teaching and learning programmes, and community engagement, especially through its Centres.

The University of Pretoria has the oldest fully-fledged Faculty of Theology and Religion in South Africa, and our Faculty is rated first in Africa and 14th in the world in terms of research impact. This is proof of the high standard at which theology is practised at the University of Pretoria and the fact that academic excellence is a non-negotiable trait of the Faculty.

• Disclaimer: This publication contains information about regulations and programmes of the University of Pretoria. Amendments to or updating of the information may be effected from time to time without prior notification. The accuracy, correctness or validity of the information contained here is therefore not guaranteed by the University at any given time and is always subject to verification. The user is kindly requested to verify the correctness of the information with the University at all times. Failure to do so will not give rise to any claim or action of any nature against the University by any party whatsoever.