Academic Formation for Ordained Ministry

Courses of study at CTC can satisfy academic requirements for the following formation programs.

CTC offers the academic studies required by students preparing for ordination to the Catholic priesthood, through the awards of University of Divinity. The authorities of the affiliated seminaries are responsible for deciding whether a candidate has successfully completed the academic requirements for ordination to the priesthood.

What academic training is required?

Seminarians undertake an academic program which generally includes a degree in theology, and studies in canon law, pastoral care and liturgy. Once admitted to the program, interested men undertake up to seven years of studies, usually beginning at Bachelor of Theology level.

Academic information

The authorities of the affiliated seminaries, in consultation with the CTC Academic Dean, plan a program of studies for each candidate. For information on relevant courses, refer to the courses page.

CTC offers the academic studies required by the Office for the Permanent Diaconate of the Archdiocese of Melbourne. The Director of this office is responsible for deciding whether a candidate has successfully completed appropriate units to enable him to be presented for ordination.

What academic training is required?

Those who aspire to the permanent diaconate undertake a similar formation process to students for the priesthood, which generally includes a degree in theology, and studies in canon law, pastoral care and liturgy. Once admitted to the programme, interested men begin as enquirers, attending monthly formation meetings with the emphasis on spiritual formation and development of a community of enquirers. Enquirers also begin studies for the degree of Bachelor of Theology (or postgraduate study if they already hold a bachelor award). Following these initial studies and formation, the enquirer will be invited to apply to be accepted by the Archbishop as an aspirant, provided it is established that he will be able to complete the programme of studies within another four years. During the later stages of the programme, an aspirant is accepted as a candidate and installed by the Archbishop in the ministries of reader and acolyte. The length of the formation process varies, depending upon a man’s previous studies, if applicable, and his satisfactory participation in the spiritual, human and pastoral elements of the programme.

Academic information

The Office of the Permanent Diaconate in consultation with the CTC Academic Dean plans a program of studies for each candidate. For information on relevant courses, refer to the courses page

To find out more about the permanent diaconate program visit the Archdiocese of Melbourne Permanent Diaconate website.

Office Hours
Thursdays 11.00am – 4.00pm

CTC offers the academic studies required for priestly ordination in the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of the Southern Cross. The Ordinariate is part of the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church. The Ordinary is responsible for deciding whether a candidate has completed appropriate studies to enable him to be presented for ordination.

Catholic Theological College offers courses suitable for priests who are interested in seeking enrichment or sabbatical leave. This could be taken through a variety of options, including coursework or individual lectures.

Units for audit

For those who wish to attend a complete unit but not complete assessment tasks, most of our units can be undertaken by audit. This involves enrolment in 12 week units or intensive units). These are suitable for ongoing personal and professional learning. There are no assessment tasks required, however access is provided to class reading and online resources, as well as Library privileges. A fee is charged for the unit and a statement of completion is provided.

Engaging Your Faith online sessions

Engaging Your Faith Sessions