BTh Honours Programme
Elevate Your Theological Study
Programme Overview
- Accreditation: It is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training as a National Qualifications Framework Level 8 contact-mode degree programme.
- Purpose: The programme is designed to make the student more conversant with the disciplines of biblical exegesis and theology, with a more specialised knowledge of their chosen area of study.
- Study Trajectory: The course will also prepare the student to enter a master’s degree in theology.
- Design: The programme is primarily designed to stimulate independent research and critical reflection, culminating in the submission of a compulsory mini-dissertation in a chosen field of study.
Admission Requirements
Only graduates with a minimum average of 70% in a BTh programme are eligible to apply for entrance into the BTh Honours programme.
Programme Format and Structure
The BTh Honours is a one-year full-time programme, but it may be completed on a part-time basis over 2 years.
| Programme Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Format | A blended model that includes a two-week intensive contact session at the beginning of the academic year, followed by remote self-study for the remainder of the year. |
| Lecturer Role | The role of the lecturer is primarily to manage the learning process. |
| Module Work | Each module comprises reading and written assignments, but no exams. |
| Cost (2026) | R37 400-00 for full-time students. |
Programme Structure
The programme is a 120-credit degree.
Course Work (80 Credits) – Two Electives Required
| Module | Credits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Old Testament | 16 | Compulsory (1st semester) |
| New Testament | 16 | Compulsory (2nd semester) |
| Theology | 16 | Compulsory (1st semester) |
| Ethics | 16 | Elective (not offered in 2026) |
| Church History | 16 | Elective (not offered in 2026) |
| Pastoral Counselling & Ministry | 16 | Elective (1st semester) |
| Missions | 16 | Elective (2nd semester) |
| Research Components (40 Credits) | ||
| Research Methodology | 8 | Compulsory (1st semester) |
| Research Proposal | 8 | Compulsory (1st semester) |
| Specialist Reading | 8 | Compulsory (2nd semester) |
| Mini-dissertation | 16 | Compulsory (2nd semester) |
| Total Programme Credits | 120 |
Course Descriptions
1. Old Testament (Dr. Daniel Simango)
This course provides a comprehensive study of the Imago Dei in the Pentateuch and Biblical Theology. It begins by surveying historical interpretations alongside contemporary scholarship in Old Testament studies. The course then focuses on key Pentateuchal texts and theological themes that shape the understanding of the Imago Dei within the broader framework of Biblical Theology.
2. New Testament (Dr. Peter Smuts)
This course offers an intensive, exegetical examination of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), studying the text within its specific Matthean context. You will engage in an in-depth analysis of the text, critically interacting with major commentaries and scholarly studies. While not required, students are encouraged to engage with the Greek New Testament text.
3. Theology (Dr. Corne Blaauw)
This course offers a focused study of the Christian doctrine of Creation. Students will engage in close exegesis of key biblical texts (Genesis 1–3; Job 37–41; Romans 5:12–21; 8:19–25; Revelation 21) and learn to interpret these passages within broader biblical-theological categories. Attention will be given to major theological voices in the history of the church—including Irenaeus, Augustine, Aquinas, Turretin, Edwards, and Bavinck.
4. Pastoral Theology (Dr. Vhumani Magezi)
This course is designed to orient students to pastoral care as a practical theological discipline that utilises theological resources to cope with life’s challenges. It involves using the Christian faith as a life science for navigation and resilience within the fast-changing and complex African context, where individuals often find themselves navigating between indigenous African and Western norms and values.
5. Missions (Rev. Benjamin van Rensburg)
The course offers an intensive study of ministry in an urban context. You will investigate the biblical view of the city and develop a theology of the city. You will research current challenges for ministry in the city and develop appropriate strategies to respond to these challenges. You will also explore biblical modes of witness and how to apply these to a specific urban context.
Contact Person
Dr. Peter Smuts, Dean of Graduate Studies
Email
pwsmuts@bisa.org.za
Application Form
BACHELOR-OF-THEOLOGY-HONOURS.pdf
Deadline
Course applications close on 5th January 2026
