Do you want to go deeper in God’s Word?
Our Graduate Diploma/Diploma will equip you with foundational biblical knowledge and skills to serve Jesus Christ effectively. After completing this program, you will have increased confidence in “rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
Phoenix Seminary offers both a 30-hour Graduate Diploma and a 12-hour Diploma in a wide variety of concentrations including Biblical Studies, Intercultural Studies, Spiritual Formation, Systematic Theology, Women’s Studies and many more.
Should you pursue the Graduate Diploma/Diploma?
Yes, if you want to—
- study the Scriptures in more depth
- learn from biblical experts
- network with other like-minded, passionate believers
- fall more in love with Jesus Christ
What is the purpose of the Graduate Diploma/Diploma program?
The Graduate Diploma/Diploma provides foundational biblical education for those in support roles or non-vocational ministries. It is ideal for elders and lay leaders who are seeking to improve their understanding of Scripture. It is not intended for those in vocational pastoral or teaching ministries. The Graduate Diploma/Diploma can also provide seminary studies on a trial basis for persons who wish to test their gifts and skills with a view toward further preparation for full-time Christian ministry. Graduate Diploma/Diploma course work may later be applied toward a master’s degree program.
Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Graduate Diploma/Diploma program should be able to:
- Explain important biblical themes;
- Explain key theological concepts;
- Interpret Scriptures according to proper hermeneutical principles;
- Apply Scriptures according to proper hermeneutical principles.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the Graduate Diploma/Diploma program must have earned an accredited baccalaureate degree (or its equivalent) that includes a breadth of liberal arts. A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) is required. Applicants who do not meet these general academic requirements may petition the Admissions Committee for special consideration. Applicants must also give evidence of mature Christian character and ministry potential.
Graduate Diploma Program Requirements
| Course | Title | 30 Hours |
| CORE COURSES | 14 | |
| BC 499 | Graduate Writing Workshop | Transcripted |
| BL 50 | Introduction to Biblical Interpretation* | 2 |
| BI 502 | Survey of the Pentateuch | 2 |
| BL 505 | Survey of the Gospels | 2 |
| CD 501 | Living in God’s Presence | 2 |
| MS 501 | Principles of Ministry Leadership | 2 |
| TH 500 | Survey of Christian Theology* | 4 |
| GENERAL ELECTIVES | 4 | |
| Diploma Concentration (see Student Handbook) | 12 | |
*Students who desire to take the full Theology sequence, or who are considering eventual transfer into the MABL or MDiv programs should substitute BL 501 Principles of Biblical Interpretation in place of BL500 Introduction to Biblical Interpretation and should substitute TH 501 God, Scripture, Revelation, and the Holy Spirit in place of TH 500 Survey of Christian Theology.
Transfer Credit
A maximum of 50 percent of the course work required for the Graduate Diploma/Diploma may be transferred from another seminary or graduate school when the transfer credit fits the nature of the program and other requirements are met. No transfer credit will be accepted into the 12-credit Diploma.
Graduation Requirements
The Graduate Diploma requires the completion of 30 semester hours within three years with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. The Diploma requires the completion of 12 semester hours within two years with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
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