The Diploma in Theology offers general theological education to students who have completed the NSC/IEB (or equivalent qualification), but without the required university admission. It also provides a basis for denominational programmes, formation and practical training with a view to the ministry.

People study Theology and Religion for various reasons, and not only to make it their profession. Some find it to be a fascinating field that they would like to explore, whereas others search for spiritual growth 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 experiences.

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?

In the case of students who feel called to work in churches as ministers, pastors, priests, lay preachers,  missionaries or youth workers, studying Theology and Religion is the way to go. Others find their calling in serving the community as social workers, development workers, chaplains, psychologists, teachers, journalists or writers, or become engineers, lawyers or entrepreneurs, but regardless of the professions people choose, studying Theology and Religion 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 2025

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. 

Applicants currently in Grade 12 must apply with their final Grade 11 (or equivalent) results.

Applicants who have completed Grade 12 must apply with their final NSC or equivalent qualification results.

Please note that meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee admission.

Successful candidates will be notified once admitted or conditionally admitted.

Unsuccessful candidates will be notified after 30 June.

Applicants should check their application status regularly on the UP Student Portal at click here.

Applicants with qualifications other than the abovementioned should refer to the International undergraduate prospectus 2025: Applicants with a school leaving certificate not issued by Umalusi (South Africa), 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.

Except in cases where modules or programmes require the use of a language other than English, all modules will be presented only in English, which is the University's official language of tuition, communication and correspondence. 

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.