Graduate Diploma in Christian Studies
The Graduate Diploma in Christian Studies (GDCS) helps foster spiritual growth and maturity through dynamic classroom lectures and discussions. The program is offered at the graduate level and can be completed entirely online.
Upon completion, the diploma is awarded by Acadia Divinity College, with transferrable credits that can be applied toward a Master of Divinity or Master of Arts (Theology) degree.
Contact
Dr. Benjamin MacDonald
Number of Courses: 10 (30 credit hours)
Length of Program: 1 year*
Course Load Options: Full-time (3 or more courses per semester**) and part-time (1-2 courses per semester)
*based on a full-time course load of 10 courses per year
**five courses per semester is a normal full-time course load
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, or equivalent, with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.0
The completion of 30 semester hours of academic work, taken for graduate credit with a minimum GPA of 2.00.
Full Time 2022-2023
Full Year | One Semester | |
Tuition | $9,281* | $4,641 |
Fees | $1580.86 | $987.93 |
Total | $10,861.86 | $5,628.93 |
*Seniors (60+)/Qualified Ministry Partners receive a 50% discount on full-time tuition.
Visit our Tuition & Fees page to view part-time amounts.
Bursaries:
- All students (incoming and returning) are encouraged to apply for financial aid
- Amounts vary dependent on level of study and course load:
- Graduate full-time: $2,253 per year
- Graduate part-time: $248.25 per course
College Assistantships:
- Canadian and international students are welcome to apply for various College Assistantships for each academic year. Remuneration varies depending on the position.
Additional information on Scholarships and Bursaries and College Assistantships

Program Overview
Course Number Course Title Credit Hours IDTH 5010 Orientation Pass/Fail Biblical Studies BIBL 5023 Interpreting the Old Testament 3 BIBL 5033 Interpreting the New Testament 3 Christian Thought CHUR 5013 Intro to Christian History 3 THEO 5013 Christian Theology 1 3 THEO 5023 Christian Theology 2 3 Ministry EVAN 5013 Evangelism and Mission in Contemporary Society 3 SPFM 5013 Christian Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders 3 Biblical Studies, Christian Thought, or Ministry Electives1 Elective 3 Elective 3 Elective 3 Total Credit Hours 30
- Survey of the Bible (BIBL 5013) required if Bible Knowledge Test is not passed