Few Australian universities work like this one. It began as the Melbourne College of Divinity in 1910 and gained university status in 2012, but its teaching happens in a group of theological colleges run by different churches, among them Anglican, Catholic, Uniting, Baptist and Orthodox. The central office is in Kew, in Melbourne's inner east. Degrees run from undergraduate theology and ministry to research doctorates.
Kew, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Official website: divinity.edu.au
1910 as the Melbourne College of Divinity
2012
Specialised university in theology and ministry
Through member theological colleges
A$22,000 – A$30,000
International students, coursework degrees, per year
A$24,000 – A$30,000
Rent, food and local transport
Approximate figures for 2026-27, please verify. Fees change every year and vary by course, so check the latest amount on divinity.edu.au before you apply.
Bachelor of Theology
Bachelors DegreeDuration
36 Months
Intake
Feb, Jul
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 79
Master of Divinity
Masters DegreeDuration
36 Months
Intake
Feb, Jul
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 79
Master of Theological Studies
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Feb, Jul
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 79
Master of Philosophy
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Feb, Jul
Exam Score
IELTS: 7.0, TOEFL: 94
Doctor of Philosophy
DoctorateDuration
48 Months
Intake
Feb, Jul
Exam Score
IELTS: 7.0, TOEFL: 94
Teaching through theological colleges of several churches.
Small, often seminar-style classes.
Research degrees in theology, philosophy and religious history.
Graduates work in ministry, chaplaincy, teaching and faith-based organisations.
Some move into welfare, aid and community work.
Research graduates go on to teaching and academic posts.
Eligible graduates may apply for the Temporary Graduate visa.
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
Kew is a leafy residential suburb east of the city centre, with trams along High Street and Cotham Road. The member colleges are spread across Melbourne, so where you study day to day depends on which college you join.
Melbourne is a large, spread-out city with good trams and trains and weather that changes fast. Rent is high in the inner suburbs, and many students share houses further out.
CoE from University of Divinity
Proof of funds for fees and living
Overseas Student Health Cover
English test at required level
Genuine Student statement
Valid passport and health check
Applications usually close a few months before each semester, and international students should allow extra time for the CoE and visa. You apply through the member college you want to study with.
Most courses start in February (Semester 1) or July (Semester 2).
You'll apply for a subclass 500 Student visa using the CoE from University of Divinity. Have your OSHC policy, financial evidence and Genuine Student answers ready before you start the online form.
The Bachelor of Theology, Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies are the most common choices, with research degrees for graduates. Undergraduate entry needs completed secondary school and IELTS around 6.5; the Master of Divinity usually needs a bachelor's degree in another field.
Some member colleges and churches offer bursaries, and research students can apply for scholarships. Ask your chosen college directly, as funding varies from one college to another.
