Bachelor of Theology (BTh)
Distance Learning Programme (DLP)
The Bachelor of Theology provides the education and training needed to equip Christian men and women for a teaching and preaching ministry of the Word of God in the local church in order to fulfil the Great Commission in Africa and throughout the world. The qualification provides the opportunity to integrate knowledge of the Christian faith with essential skills to minister and lead Christian communities.
The Distance Learning Programme (DLP) is especially designed for students who are not able to come to the campus for some or all of their studies as well as those who would like to study at their own pace and complete the course over a longer period of time. It is ideal for those already in full-time employment, yet who desire to grow in the knowledge of the Lord and His Word and to serve Him more effectively.
The Bachelor of Theology is accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and registered by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) The completed course is at National Qualifications Framework level 7
Duration:
Three years full-time.
Distance learning students can set their own pace and complete the BTh over a longer period of time, typically between six to eight years.
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Mode of Instruction:
BISA Online makes use of Canvas, an online learning management system. All students have access to Canvas to obtain course materials, submit quizzes and assignments , interact with their lecturers or other students and monitor their progress. Some courses require students to purchase textbooks.
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Practical Training Assignment (PTA):
Each student is required to do two official practical training assignments in a local church or Christian ministry during their course of study. Successful fulfilment of the practical training assignment is a prerequisite for graduation.
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Examinations:
Exams will be conducted at the end of each module, usually in June and November. Students who live in Cape Town may write their exams at the Bible Institute. Those unable to do so will need to choose an invigilator (such as their pastor) to administer the exam.
​​​Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate or equivalent with a minimum of 60% in English language (HG first language) and coupled with an achievement rating of 4 or better in four subjects from the designated subjects list. (Per Government Gazette No. 751, 11 July 2008). Admission through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is permitted. Please contact the registrar for any inquiries regarding entrance requirements.
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The Bachelor of Theology is also available for full-time study on campus.
Programme Structure:
​A student is required to complete the following modules to qualify for the BTh degree. The number of credits for each course is shown and a credit is nominally equivalent to 10 hours of work.
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Year 1 (NQF Level 5)
Semester 1
Academic & Digital Literacy* Mission, Evangelism & Discipleship
Christian Education
Hermeneutics
Theology 1: Scripture
Biblical Theology
Total NQF Credits
12
12
16
8
8
8
64
Semester 2
Early & Medieval Church History Homiletics 1
NT Studies 1: Synoptic Gospels
OT Studies 1: Pentateuch
Theological Ethics 1
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Total NQF Credits
12
8
16
12
12
60
*Academic & Digital Literacy is repeated for those starting in Semester 2. Students with a previous degree are exempt.
Year 2 (NQF Level 6)
Semester 1
Homiletics 2
NT Studies: General Epistles & Acts
Introduction to Biblical Greek A
OT Studies 2: Historical Books
Theology 2: Doctrine of God
Total NQF Credits ​
8
16
12
12
12
60
Semester 2
Reformation & Modern Church History Apologetics & World View
Understanding Islam
Mission & Social Transformation
Biblical Counselling
OT Studies 3: Wisdom Books
Theology 3: Doctrine of Christ & Holy Spirit
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Total NQF Credits
12
12
8
12
8
12
​ 12
76
Year 3 (NQF Level 7)
Semester 1
Community Engagement
OT Studies 4: Prophetic Books
Introduction to Biblical Hebrew A
Theology 4: Doctrine of Man, Sin
& Salvation
NT Studies: John’s Writings & Revelation
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Total NQF Credits
​
4
16
12
​
12
16
60
Semester 2
Community Engagement
Pastoral Ministries
NT Studies 4: Pauline Epistles & Romans
Theological Ethics 2
Theology 5: Doctrine of the Church
& the End Times
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Total NQF Credits 60
4
12
16
12
12
56
Total NQF Credits: 368
Get in Touch
For more information about the Bachelor of Theology (DLP) contact the DLP Coordinator, Cynthia Human
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Email: distance@bisa.org.za
Tel: +21 21 7884116
Ms. Cynthia Human
DLP Coordinator
Prospectus
Full information about the Bachelor of Theology Distance Learning Programme is outlined in the Prospectus.​
Click on the pdf icon to view and/or download the BTh (DLP) Prospectus