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LST CurricuLum: DTH

Diploma in Theology

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Curriculum for Diploma in Theology (DTH)

The objectives of this program are:


  • To provide integrated theological education for holistic ministry
  • To train those deemed suitable for ministry by their bishops or Church leaders to faithfully practice the Word ministry in complex African settings.
  • To help students to be grounded in biblical principles and doctrines.
  • To prepare students to effectively communicate the Word of God in congregational and missiological environments.
  • To gain practical life skills.

The purpose of this program is to equip individuals with knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for church ministry as well as equipping them with basic life skills to acquire secular employment and sustainable income.

  •  Course:
    GEN 111 English & Academic Writing
    Purpose:
    The purpose of this course is to develop students' proficiency in the English language and enhance their academic writing skills. The course is designed to equip students with the necessary tools and strategies to express themselves effectively in written English, both academically and professionally. Through a comprehensive study of grammar, vocabulary, and composition techniques, students will learn to produce well-structured and coherent written pieces appropriate for academic contexts.
  •  Course:
    GEN 112 Communication Skills
    Purpose:
    The Communication Skills course is designed to enhance students' verbal, nonverbal, and written communication abilities. The course aims to develop effective interpersonal communication skills, public speaking skills, and professional writing skills. Students will learn various techniques and strategies to express themselves confidently, engage in meaningful interactions, and convey information accurately and persuasively.
  •  Course:
    GEN 123 Introduction to Computer Skills
    Purpose:
    The purpose of this course is to provide students with a solid foundation in computer skills and digital literacy. The course aims to familiarize students with the basic concepts and practical applications of computer technology, enabling them to effectively use computers for personal, academic, and professional purposes. Through hands-on training and interactive learning, students will develop essential computer skills and gain confidence in navigating digital environments.
  •  Course:
    GEN 124 Financial Stewardship (Financial Management & Bookkeeping)
    Purpose:
    The purpose of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage financial resources in a responsible and ethical manner. The course aims to equip students with a solid foundation in financial management principles, budgeting, and bookkeeping practices. It seeks to empower students to be wise stewards of financial resources, both personally and within a professional or organizational context.
  •  Course:
    GEN 215 Research Methods
    Purpose:
    The Research Methods course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct rigorous and ethical research in various disciplines. The course aims to familiarize students with different research methodologies, techniques, and principles to enable them to design and execute research projects effectively. Students will learn how to formulate research questions, gather, and analyze data, and interpret and communicate research findings.
  •  Course:
    GEN 426 Practical Entrepreneurship (Agriculture, Soapmaking, Mechanics, Homemaking, Carpentry)
    Purpose:
    The purpose of this course is to provide students with practical skills and knowledge in various entrepreneurial areas, including agriculture, soapmaking, mechanics, homemaking, and carpentry. The course aims to equip students with the necessary tools and techniques to start and manage their own small businesses or engage in self-employment ventures. Through hands-on training and practical application, students will develop entrepreneurial competencies and explore opportunities for economic empowerment and self-sufficiency.
  •  Course:
    BIB 112 Hermeneutics (Principles of Bible Interpretation)
    Purpose:
    A foundation course for all subsequent courses in biblical study. The focus is on those principles, techniques, and tools necessary to practice faithful exegesis. It includes units on textual criticism, the history of interpretation, historical context, linguistics, and theological principles.
  •  Course:
    BIB 123 Old Testament Survey
    Purpose:
    Designed to lead you to read the entire Old Testament, this course provides an introduction to the historical and cultural background information and examines the content, context, theological themes and structure of each book of the Old Testament.
  •  Course:
    BIB 111 New Testament Survey
    Purpose:
    Designed to lead you to read the New Testament itself, the New Testament Survey provides essential historical and cultural background information and examines the content, context, themes, and structure of each book of the New Testament.
  •  Course:
    BIB 214 Pentateuch
    Purpose:
    The purpose of this course is to equip the student with the content, background, and major theological themes in Pentateuch, emphasizing on the general content, geography and historical context and its relevance to ministry in contemporary contexts.
  •  Course:
    BIB 226 Historical Books
    Purpose:
    An overview of the biblical historical books from Joshua to the return from the Babylonian Captivity. The focus is on the major themes, theological content, key figures, and the historical out-workings of the plan of redemption. Correlation with the wisdom and prophetic books augments the textual examination of this major component of the Old Testament revelation. The timeless nature of God’s principles in the historical books is shown in contemporary church and society settings.
  •  Course:
    BIB 418 Poetic / Wisdom Books
    Purpose:
    A study of the Writings that treats isagogical, hermeneutical, and theological questions, including the historical character of the Scriptural witness; each book’s text, authorship, date, historical situation, literary style, and critical issues; and focusses on the Old Testament’s Messianic character. The course includes exegesis of selected periscopes on the basis of the Hebrew text, emphasizing historical context, Christo-centricity, doctrine, and relevance. In addition, the intertestamental period and the Apocrypha will be briefly surveyed.
  •  Course:
    BIB 4210 Prophetic Books
    Purpose:
    A study of the former and latter Prophets that treats isagogical, hermeneutical, and theological questions, including the historical character of the Scriptural witness; each book’s text, authorship, date, historical situation, literary style, and critical issues; and focusses on the Old Testament’s Messianic character. The course includes exegesis of selected pericopes on the basis of the Hebrew text, emphasizing historical context, Christocentricity, doctrine, and relevance.
  •  Course:
    BIB 215 The Gospels
    Purpose:
    A survey of the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, as witnessed by the canonical Gospels, with special attention offered to the Gospel of St. John followed by advanced exploration of the Synoptic Gospels. The course includes exegesis and Bible and sermon preparation of selected pericopes on the basis of the Greek text, emphasizing historical context, Christocentricity, doctrine and an interpretation of key events and discourses and their practical application.
  •  Course:
    BIB 227 Acts & Pauline Epistles
    Purpose:
    This course helps the students to appreciate the profound importance of the book of Acts and the Letters of the Apostle Paul. As well, equipping them to know, interpret and apply Acts, and Paul’s letters to the Christian life and the life of the church.
  •  Course:
    BIB 419 General Epistles (Hebrews to Jude) and Revelation
    Purpose:
    The course exposes the learner to General Epistles (Hebrews to Jude) and Revelation and enables him/her to relate the biblical teaching to life situations.
  •  Course:
    BIB 4211 Introduction to Biblical Greek
    Purpose:
    The purpose of this course is to provide an introduction to Koine Greek, the original language used by the writers of the New Testament, so that the students have insights into the nuances of meanings and grammar of the New Testament authors.
  •  Course:
    THE 429 African Christian Ethics
    Purpose:
    An exploration of the possibility, foundation, parameters, and content of Christian ethics, with a special focus on our contemporary cultural context.
  •  Course:
    THE 214 World Religions (Christianity And Symbiotics, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, African & Cults/Spirituality)
    Purpose:
    The course introduces the learner to the history, central beliefs and practices of the major religions and cults in Africa and the world. It will also offer an appropriate Christian response in word and action.
  •  Course:
    THE 122 Dogmatics I (Doctrine of God, Man, Sin)
    Purpose:
    This course aims to provide a comprehensive study of the foundational doctrines of God, man, and sin. Students will explore the nature and attributes of God, the creation and nature of humanity, and the biblical understanding of sin. The course seeks to deepen students' theological knowledge and understanding, fostering their ability to articulate and defend these doctrines.
  •  Course:
    THE 215 Dogmatics II (Doctrine of Christ, Spirit, and Salvation)
    Purpose:
    The Dogmatic 2 course focuses on the fundamental doctrines of Christ, the Holy Spirit, and salvation in Christian theology. Building upon the foundational knowledge gained in Dogmatic 1, this course aims to deepen students' understanding of the person and work of Christ, the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers, and the theological significance of salvation. Students will explore biblical, historical, and theological perspectives on these doctrines and develop a comprehensive understanding of their implications for Christian faith and practice.

  •  Course:
    THE 418 Dogmatics III (Doctrine of the Church and Eschatology)
    Purpose:
    This course is a study of both the nature and purpose of the Church and a study of the end times. The purpose of this course is to orient people to the program of God throughout the ages, understanding how the Church fits in to His program. The vital relationship between one's view of the Church and one's view of the end times will be emphasized. We will come to the understanding that while orthodox Christianity has always believed that Christ is coming back, there are many differences concerning the details of His coming.
  •  Course:
    THE 123 Church History I (Early Church History)
    Purpose:
    This course covers the History of the early Church, from After the time of the Apostles, until the mid-16th Century. It is intended to guide students to understand especially the main controversies and theologians of the Early Church, whose writings continue to guide the Church as a beacon today, to remain faithful to the teaching of the Apostles. Students will learn how Church History and the writings of the Church Fathers continue to endure in relevance for the Church today.
  •  Course:
    THE 226 Church History II (Lutheranism)
    Purpose:
    An overview of the history of church, doctrine, and theology from the onset of the Middle Ages to the emergence and implementation of the six patterns of sixteenth-century reformation and their impact on present times.

  •  Course:
    THE 417 Church History III (African Church History)
    Purpose:
    The course seeks to broaden an awareness of how the Gospel has been at work in Africa for centuries. Besides the history of Christianity within Africa is explored and critically examined in an effort to explain current denominations, movements and religious, social and political trends on the continent.
  •  Course:
    THE 111 Lutheran Confessions 1
    Purpose:
    A study of the doctrinal content of the Lutheran Confessions and the Scriptural foundation for their content, as well as the historical context. This course concentrates on the Ecumenical Creeds, the Small and Large Catechisms, this course represents one of three in the field.

  •  Course:
    THE 224 Lutheran Confessions II
    Purpose:
    This is a study of the doctrinal content of the Lutheran Confessions and the Scriptural foundation for their content, as well as the historical setting that called forth each confession. This course concentrates on the Augsburg Confession, the Apology to the Augsburg Confession, and the Smalcald Articles.
  •  Course:
    THE 4210 Lutheran Confessions III
    Purpose:
    This is a study of the doctrinal content of the Lutheran Confessions and the Scriptural foundation for their content, as well as the historical setting that called forth each confession. This course concentrates on the Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope and the Formula of Concord.
  •  Course:
    MIN 122 Homiletics I
    Purpose:
    This course aims to acquaint the student with the basic principles of sermon construction and development. At the same time, an overview of the theological character, goals, and methods of Christian proclamation in a congregational setting, giving particular attention to issues of hermeneutics, delivery, and relationship with the Church’s liturgy and mission.

  •  Course:
    MIN 226 Homiletics II
    Purpose:
    The purpose of this course is to further equip future pastors with the skills to rightly articulate Law and Gospel when preaching in unique services such as weddings, funerals, confirmations, and other special rites and circumstances.

  •  Course:
    MIN 111 Liturgics 1
    Purpose:
    The course will offer a cursory treatment of the Divine Service, and give detailed attention to the church year, the daily office, hymnody and church music, vestments, and church architecture. It will critically assess historical liturgical practices in the unique African context.

  •  Course:
    MIN 429 Liturgics II
    Purpose:
    An advanced course in the study of Lutheran worship, reviewing the Lutheran theology of worship, then concentrating on a detailed analysis of the Divine Service as contained in the official hymnal(s) of our church. Practice sessions highlight the conduct of the Communion rite. In addition, the course addresses the occasional services (Baptism, Confession/Absolution, funerals, etc.), including the use of the Agenda and Pastoral Care Companion, service planning, and contemporary issues. Field experience activities within the context of seminary life and in co-operation with a local pastor in an assigned parish are an integral part of the course.
  •  Course:
    MIN 428 Christian Outreach (Evangelism, Discipleship & Missions)
    Purpose:
    The purpose of this course is to ground the learner in the practice of the chief methods of evangelism and the basic biblical principles of discipleship. Through exploring the theological foundations and practical applications of evangelism, discipleship, and missions, the course seeks to equip students to effectively share the Gospel, make disciples, and engage in mission work.
  •  Course:
    MIN 225 Pastoral Ministry (Church Leadership and Administration)
    Purpose:
    This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective church leadership and administration. It provides a solid understanding of the principles and practices involved in leading and managing a church or ministry organization. Students will learn how to lead teams, make strategic decisions, handle administrative tasks, understand church organizational structure, and promote organizational growth and health.
  •  Course:
    MIN 416 Pastoral Ministry II (Pastoral Counseling)
    Purpose:
    The purpose of this course is to provide students with an introduction to Pastoral Ministry while focusing on the biblical foundation for counseling and an understanding of various counseling philosophies. It equips students to apply Christian counseling principles and techniques in addressing personal, spiritual, and crisis-related issues. The course aims to prepare students to effectively provide pastoral counseling within the context of lay Christian counseling work by utilizing all the historical tools of the Catholic Church.
  •  Course:
    MIN 4210 Pastoral Ministry III (Pastor’s Devotional Life)
    Purpose:
    This course aims to nurture the personal spiritual life of pastors and equip them with practical tools and principles for cultivating a vibrant devotional life. It focuses on deepening their relationship with God, fostering spiritual disciplines, and exploring various methods of personal and corporate worship. The course seeks to inspire and sustain the spiritual vitality and emotional well-being of pastors, enabling them to effectively serve their congregations.
  •  Course:
    MIN 417 Principles of Teaching & Facilitation (Catechetics)
    Purpose:
    The Principles of Teaching & Facilitation course is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for effective teaching and facilitation in Christian ministry contexts. The course aims to develop students' understanding of teaching principles, learning theories, and facilitation techniques that promote transformative and engaging learning experiences, especially in teaching the Small Catechism to children, youth, and adults. Students will learn how to create lesson plans, deliver effective presentations, facilitate group discussions, and assess learning outcomes within a Christian ministry framework.
  •  Course:
    MIN 213 Apologetics
    Purpose:
    Focuses on how biblical Christianity can be defined and defended in a secular age by considering the role of apologetics in Scripture and the early church, by looking at their development and use in church history, by showing the validity and the importance of the natural knowledge of God and the reliability and historicity of Scripture, by establishing the relationship between facts, faith, and proof and between apologetics, theology, and Christian confession.
  •  Course:
    MIN 300 Vicarage
    Purpose:
    Upon successful completion of a student’s fourth semester, pastoral candidates are assigned a 5-month paid vicarage (internship) under the supervision of an experienced pastor that completes prior to Year 3. The assignment is made in coordination with the Director and the student’s bishop/ecclesiastical supervisor. The student is assessed by his supervisor by a final report on his performance and development. See “Vicar Handbook” for more details on evaluation procedures.
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The Diploma in Theology will be offered to qualified students who are preparing to serve in churches, parachurch and/or chaplaincy ministry.

All learners admitted in this program are required to take up all units that have been set as per the course schedule. In the event the students desire to graduate they must compete all their coursework and vicarage.
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Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. (2 Tim. 2:15)