About the Leadership Internship (Year 2)*

Diploma in Christian Studies (Level 5)

The Leadership Internship provides an opportunity for students to develop a greater awareness of their leadership skills and ministry effectiveness. The programme is design to give students an in-depth study of the Bible, the opportunity to manage projects and lead teams, and put their faith into action. Students gain valuable ministry knowledge and skills that equip them for a life of significant influence.

*Completion of the first year certificate programme before enrolling in the diploma programme is preferred.


– “We have a passion to see people trained and developed, made strong and confident, ready to be activated for their purpose. We invite you to immerse yourself in an environment where you can discover the greater destiny God has for you.

- Ps. Sam Monk

 

Testimonies

Ps. Scott Bourke

Matt Denby, 2022 & 2023

I have really enjoyed and valued my time at Equippers College. The first year was about huge growth in all areas of my life – my relationship with God developed, my knowledge of theology and my music ability grew, and I made some tight friendships as a bonus!

Doing the 1st year certificate was foundational for me, and I learnt a lot, but I really felt called to come back and do the 2nd year Diploma. I wanted to develop my leadership, and I was aware that there were leaders and mentors whom I could learn from and growth would come as a result. The blend of deeper teaching, and practical outworking of that knowledge, has been huge.

Through Equippers College, I have been challenged and encouraged to step out into things that I have not really done before. I have had to stretch myself and lead spaces that have challenged my leadership, but pushed me to grow. These past two years have definitely helped equip me for life and for future ministry. My giftings have been developed and honed, and I now have a greater sense of my calling and direction in life.

 

Diploma (Internship)

Programme: Diploma in Christian Studies 

This programme is offered in partnership with Laidlaw College

 

120 Credits, NZQA Level 5

DATES AND PRICING

Dates

  • Starts 17th February 2025 (2nd Year, Duration 1 Year)

  • Finishes 13th November 2025

Pricing (2025 Fees)

  • Domestic Fee: NZD$7,245 (inc. GST)*

  • International Fee: NZD$9,500 (inc. GST)*

*(Fees are subject to change)

Papers and Credits 

  • Biblical Theology (15 credits)

  • Theology: Introduction (15 credits) 

  • Formation (15 credits) 

  • Mission, Church and Community (15 credits)

  • Internship I (30 credits)

  • Internship II (30 credits)

You will learn:

Head

  • Leadership theory & effective practice

  • How to understand and interpret the Bible accurately

  • Theological view-points

Student Success

Successful Completion: 100%

National Graduate Outcomes (2 years after completion)

  • Median Earnings: $30,000

  • Earnings range: $30,000 to $36,000

  • In employment: 47%

  • In further study: 49%

  • Other: 6%

 

Vocational Pathways

  • Church Leadership

  • Chaplaincy

  • Church-based ministries

  • Intercultural ministries

  • Religious Education

  • Youth work

Heart

  • How to strengthen your Character

  • How to build stronger spiritual disciplines

  • How to develop a greater awareness of God’s calL

 

Hand

  • How to lead teams and departments

  • How to manage projects

  • Effective ministry skills

 

How it works:

  • Typical week: 16-20 hours practical ministry

  • Independent study of academic material

  • Block course teaching from significant ministry leaders

  • Serving across Sunday services

  • Key roles in Conferences and Events

  • Lead teams 

 

Entry Requirements

Applicants to this programme who have no secondary schooling or NCEA level 1 or 2 attainment or equivalent will require an entry assessment (including a literacy test) to establish eligibility.

Applicants who have NCEA level 3 attainment (or above) or evidence of equivalent knowledge and skills have open entry to apply.

This programme requires an internship placement of a total of 420 hours (an average of 16 to 20 hours per week) of practical ministry involvement. Entry into this programme will require selection, supervision and mentoring by the learner’s faith community or community organisation. Applicants must complete an Internship Placement Contract which includes accreditation of the church or organisation, minister or director, supervisor and mentor; recommendation of students; and ministry proposal.

NCEA Equivalence can include:

• NZ School Certificate

• Sixth Form Certificate

• Overseas equivalent qualifications, including IB and CIE

• Other NZQA level 1 or 2 certificates in relevant disciplines to Laidlaw programmes

The following may be accepted as equivalent at our discretion and the applicant may need to sit assessment

for entry:

• Reference/support/documentation from employer

• Evidence of level of academic achievement or a portfolio of work for home-schooled students

All equivalences must be documented.

Entry Assessment may include a literacy test. Dates for assessment will be advised.

Special Admission

Applicants who have no secondary schooling or NCEA level 1 or 2 attainment or equivalent will require an

entry assessment (including a literacy test) to establish eligibility. The college will also take in to consideration

the following factors when assessing a special admission applicant:

• Previous education

• Training and work experience

• English language skills and;

• Motivation to study