Prospectus - Certificate in Theology - George Whitefield College

Prospectus
- Certificate in Theology
About GWC................................... 2
Mission Statement.............................. 3
Governance................................... 3
Accreditation and Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Doctrinal Statement............................. 4
Board, Faculty and Staff Declarations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Educational Philosophy........................... 6
Language Policy................................ 7
Mode of Instruction. ............................ 7
Faculty & Staff................................. 8
Student Fees..................................10
THE CERTIFICATE IN THEOLOGY
Description and Structure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Entrance Requirements.......................12
Applications for credit........................12
Qualification Requirements.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Module descriptions..........................13
STUDENT SUPPORT
General Information.............................24
Applications from foreigners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
How to apply for admission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
9 October 2009
Christian Leaders for Africa

About GWC
GWC’s beginnings stem from 1977 with the establishment of George
Whitefield House as a resource and support centre for students of the Church
of England in South Africa (CESA) who were then training for ministry at the
Bible Institute of South Africa in Kalk Bay, Cape Town. The Rev David Streater
(later Secretary of the Church Society in London) was appointed as the first
Warden and he was succeeded by the Rev Dr John Newby (later Vice-
Principal of GWC). In 1988 the Rev Dr David Broughton Knox came from
Australia at the request of the CESA Synod to establish George Whitefield
College. GWC was located close to the Bible Institute in Kalk Bay and the two
colleges worked in association from 1989 until 1998 when GWC outgrew its
premises and moved to Muizenberg.
Dr Broughton Knox brought vast experience and knowledge from a long
association with Australia’s Moore Theological College, including 27 years as
its Principal. Consistent with the theological stance of the CESA, he laid the
foundations for an evangelical and reformed training of candidates for the
Christian ministry, as well as Scripturally-based instruction in Christian life and
ministry for the wider community.
In 1993 Dr Knox was succeeded by the Rev Dr David Seccombe and under
his leadership GWC has seen rapid expansion. The College is now firmly
established as a high quality institution with a growing reputation in Africa and
the rest of the world. New programmes, such as the unique Children’s Worker
track, have been added and the existing curricula improved. Student numbers
have increased and the College now attracts students from all over the world
and especially other countries in Africa.
Our Aim
G
WC stands under the authority of Holy Scripture as
God’s infallible revelation of himself to human beings,
culminating in his becoming a man in Jesus Christ. Our
programme therefore aims to deepen the students’
understanding of the total message of the Bible, to
develop their capacity to relate to the many complex
situations of modern life, and to train them to minister the
biblical message effectively to the needy world.
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Mission Statement
George Whitefield College (GWC) exists to play its’ part in fulfilling the terms
1
of Christ's Great Commission by educating people in the principles of
2
Christian knowledge , and providing high quality education and training for
Christian life and ministry, particularly ministries of the Word of God.
1
To disciple the nations and teach them everything that Christ enjoined upon his apostles.
(Matthew 28:19)
2
The knowledge of God and related fields of knowledge.
Governance
George Whitefield College is an association incorporated under section 21 of
the Companies Act, 1973 (Registration number: 2003/003197/08). Ultimate
control of the College is vested in the GWC Board of Directors.
The Board consists of:
The Presiding Bishop of the CESA,
The Principal of the College,
Two Rectors of CESA churches, elected by the CESA Synod
Five lay members, being CESA members.
The present Board Members are:
Bishop Frank Retief Chairman, Presiding Bishop of the CESA
The Rev Prof. David Seccombe Principal of GWC
Mr Ashley Croeser Businessman
The Rev Dr Mervyn Eloff Rector, St James Church, Kenilworth
Dr Jerry Gule, Businessman
Mr Thulani Ngubane Schools Inspector, Department of Education
The Rev Dr Mark Norman Rector, CESA Queenswood, Pretoria
Prof Rob Sieborger, Associate Professor, School of Education, UCT.
Mrs Hayley Tubman, Homemaker.
Responsibility for academic matters is vested in the Faculty Board which
consists of all full-time faculty members - see page 8.
Responsibility for all other day-to-day college matters (finance, property,
resources, etc) is vested in the Executive Committee, consisting of:
Dr David Seccombe Principal and Chief Executive
(correspondence should be directed through the Principal’s PA, Ms Miza Gobozi: m.gobozi@gwc.ac.za)
The Rev Mark Dickson Vice-principal (mdickson@gwc.ac.za)
Mr Alan Beckman Academic Registrar (abeckman@gwc.ac.za)
Mr Arnie Muller Business Manager (amuller@gwc.ac.za)
Mr Roderick Hoek Development Manager (r.hoek@gwc.ac.za)
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Accreditation and Registration
George Whitefield College is provisionally accredited by the Council on Higher
Education to offer the Certificate in Theology (reference:
H/PRO052/E001CAN). The college is provisionally registered with the
Department of Education until 31 December 2009 as a private higher
education institution under the Higher Education Act, 1997 (provisional
registration no 2007/HE08/002). In terms of of the Act and its regulations
(section 54(6)(b) and regulations 17(2)(c) & 17(3)), provisional registration will
lapse if the College fails to satisfy the requirements for registration by 31
December 2009. GWC has fulfilled all the requirements and is awaiting the
conversion of its registration as at the date of production of this prospectus.
The team at GWC constantly strives to offer high quality and carefully
structured programmes. We have confidence in our programmes and our
ability to meet statutory requirements. Prospective students should note that,
in terms of the regulations, guarantees are in place to ensure that they receive
the education training for which they enrol and pay.
Doctrinal Statement
We believe that God has revealed himself and his plan for the human race
through the prophetic writings of the Old and New Testaments, and ultimately
by becoming a man in the person of Jesus Christ. At the heart of this plan is
God’s establishment of Jesus Christ as Lord and King of his Universe through
his sin-bearing death and death-defeating resurrection. Jesus commanded
that this be communicated to people of all nations that they might believe and
be saved, before his coming again to rule visibly, gloriously and for ever.
Salvation is by Christ’s grace alone, and is received by faith alone. Believers
become members of Christ (“in Christ”) and this determines their fundamental
corporate identity, transcending all differences of nationality, race, gender and
class. As Christians, we are one body in Christ and individually children of God
and brothers and sisters to each other.
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Board, Faculty and Staff Declarations
Board members and Faculty of GWC make the following declaration prior to
taking office:
I believe and hold the Christian faith and in particular, as set forth in the
creeds known as the Nicene Creed and the Apostles’ Creed and the
doctrine contained in the Thirty-nine Articles of Religion* interpreted
according to their plain and literal sense.
In particular, I believe:
that the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the
ultimate rule and standard of faith given by inspiration of God and
containing all things necessary to salvation;
and
that man is justified before God only because of the merit of our Lord
and Saviour Jesus Christ by faith and not because of his own works or
merit.
*The Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion are the statement of faith subscribed to by ministers of the Church of
England in South Africa and other Anglican denominations throughout the world. They may be found at the
back of most Anglican Prayer Books.
Recognising the sensitivities of its South African context, Faculty and staff at
GWC sign the following declaration:
As teachers and staff at George Whitefield College we believe that Christ
welcomes to his kingdom men, women and children of all races and
nationalities as equals in Christ. We therefore commit ourselves to:
1. praying for one another: students, faculty and staff
2. working for the upliftment and progress of the students of the College,
whatever their race or gender
3. being fair and even-handed in all our dealings with the students
4. being respectful and courteous to everyone in the College, regardless of
race, gender or position
5

Educational Philosophy
Foundational to GWC’s educational method is the conviction that the Bible is
God’s Word and that teaching God’s Word is the core of Christian ministry.
Much attention is given, therefore, to the study of the Bible, which is a
foundational text book and primary source. This entails attention to the original
languages in which the Bible was written, and its historical, cultural, and
literary background. It also entails study of the systematic formalization of the
doctrines and ethical teachings of the Bible.
GWC is also appreciatively aware of the rich Christian heritage of thought,
worship, life and ministry to which it is heir, and is active in understanding,
critically assessing and preserving this tradition. This entails critical study of
the history of (Judaeo) Christian belief and practice, including the
controversies, past and present, which need to be understood and evaluated.
Ministry skills are best learned by doing. GWC provides certain workshops of a
practical nature in its regular curriculum, but also requires that students
undertake supervised field work.
In addition to a rigorous application to mastering the knowledge,
understanding and skills base of the Christian Faith, we seek as broad and
deep an understanding of the philosophies, religions and cultures of the world
we live in as is possible within the time constraints of the courses.
God has revealed himself in order that we might know him, enjoy him and
serve him, so our teaching and learning takes place in a context of faith and
commitment - “faith seeking understanding of itself” (Anselm). This aspect of
our educational method expresses itself in
• a culture of consciously and deliberately learning from Christ.
• the evangelical commitment of teachers.
• the Christian commitment of the students.
• a mutual concern for spiritual growth amongst students, teachers and
staff.
• worship, prayer and fellowship within the formal and informal life of the
College.
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Language Policy
The primary teaching and learning mode at GWC is through contact lectures in
the English language. It is therefore necessary for prospective students to be
proficient in English - reading, writing and comprehension. The college
reserves the right to require a language examination of its choice as a
prerequisite to admission. Every assistance is given to students whose first
language is not English with tutorial classes arranged where warranted. In
some cases however, students are advised to enrol for a recognised English
language course as offered by various institutions.
Mode of Instruction
The main mode of instruction is through contact lectures held between 08:00
to 15:30 Mondays to Fridays - please see the calendar for details of the
college academic year and terms. Timetables are published in advance of
each term giving details of classes and venues. Wherever possible, afternoon
lectures are avoided. Christian ministry is best learnt not from books and
lectures alone, but through a dynamic interaction with people. The programme
therefore includes a field work component, regular chapel services and other
opportunities to practise skills learnt. There is also time for unstructured
interaction - a weekly college lunch, coffee times, fellowship groups, etc.
Educational Outcomes
A GWC graduate should
love God and neighbourand express it in service and prayer.
know and understand the Bible.
be able to:
• interpret the Bible accurately and responsibly.
• explain and defend the truths and practices of the Christian Faith.
• carry out practical Christian ministry, especially the teaching and
preaching of God’s Word.
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Full-time Faculty
David Seccombe (Christian Doctrine; New Testament)
BSc Hons (University of New England), LTh Hons (Moore College & Australian College of Theology),
BD Hons (London University), Diploma of Religious Education (Melbourne College of Divinity), PhD
(Cambridge University).
David is Principal of GWC. His PhD dissertation is published as Possessions and the Poor in Luke-
Acts (Linz: SNTU, 1982). Other books include Dust to Destiny: Reading Romans Today (Sydney:
Aquila, 1996), The King of God's Kingdom: A Solution to the Puzzle of Jesus (Carlisle: Paternoster,
2002). Formerly Rector of St Matthew's Anglican Church in Shenton Park, Western Australia (1979 -
1992), he was appointed Principal of GWC in 1993. He is an Affiliate Professor of New Testament at
North-West University. David is married to Lorraine and they have a son and three daughters.
Mark Dickson (Biblical Hebrew; Philosophy; Pastoral Studies)
BSc (Major: Physics) (UCT), Dip Th (BISA), MA (NWU)
Mark is Vice-Principal and holds the C.S. Lewis Lectureship in Christian Thought. He is
especially interested in grappling with foundational truths of the Christian Faith, applying and
packaging them to address the issues of modern society, and has special expertise in the
area of science and Christianity. Mark was the senior minister of St Matthews Church in
Table View (Cape Town) for 17years, and is still actively involved in ministry there. He is
married to Julie and they have two sons and a daughter.
Benjamin Dean (Systematic Theology)
BA Hons (London School of Theology), MA (King's College, London), MPhil, PhD, CTh (University of
Cambridge).
Ben is GWC's Dean of Postgraduate Studies. His doctoral thesis is entitled 'Torrance's Vision of the
Trinity'. He is married to Naomi and they have a daughter and three sons.
Siegfried Ngubane (Pastoral Studies; World Religions; Evangelism)
LTh (GWC), BA Hons Theol (U. Western Cape).
Siegfried is Lecturer in African Church Planting and Leadership Ministries. This position involves
lecturing, tutoring, pastoral care of students and actual supervision of graduates in township church
planting ministries. After graduating from GWC in 1997, he was invited to plant a church among Xhosa
speaking people in Khayelitsha, one of the fast growing townships in South Africa. He is currently
completing a Masters Degree in Missions. He still serves as a Senior Pastor of Mandela Park
Community Church and his duties involve supervising curates and GW C students placed in
Khayelitsha. Siegfried has taken interest in African Traditional Religions Studies, especially the aspect
of Ancestral Worship. Ministering at Khayelitsha where there is a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS has
forced him not to ignore the pandemic that is affecting millions in South Africa. He contributed a
chapter to a recent book on majority world ministry (“The Context of Ministry in South Africa:
HIV/AIDS”, in A Different Perspective. Sydney: OCA Books, 2006) He is married to Maureen and they
have three children: two teenage girls and a boy.
John Child (Christian Doctrine; Ethics; Pastoral Studies)
BA (Rhodes), Dip Th (BISA), BD Hons (London), MTh (UNISA).
John is the Peter Chamane Lecturer in Systematic Theology and Ethics. He wrote the articles on
Apartheid and the Christian Reconstruction Movement in the New Dictionary of Christian Ethics and
Pastoral Theology, and wrote a thesis on Biblical Law in the Theology of R. J. Rushdoony. He is
currently doing research into modern day prophecy for a PhD. John spent thirteen years in the
business world prior to his ordination in 1989. He was Rector of Christ Church, La Lucia, before joining
the Faculty in 1997. He is currently also minister in charge of Muizenberg Community Church, a
church plant on the College campus. John is married to Marion and they have four children.
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Ross Anderson (Biblical Studies)
B.Th (Unisa); Dip.Th (Bisa); M.Th (UWC)
Ross was born in Swaziland and grew up in Zululand. He was converted in 1975 and started
preaching in 1977 under the guidance of Ken Terhoven. He qualified as a diesel mechanic with
International Harvester to fund his theological studies. He was ordained in the Church of England in
South Africa in 1982. Ross did his first curacy at Holy Trinity Pietermaritzburg, and his second at Christ
Church Paarl. He then served as rector of Christ Church Somerset West until 1987 when he moved to
St.James Church in Kenilworth, Cape Town. He joins the GWC faculty in October 2009. He has led
numerous mission trips into the mountains of Lesotho. He is married to Lindy and they have three
children: Sarah-Jane, Bruce and Poppy.
Victor Owuor (Biblical Studies)
Dip.Th (Moffatt College of the Bible), LTh (Evangelical Seminary of South Africa), BA Hons
(Potchefstroom), MA (North West University).
Victor is tutor and junior lecturer as he works on a PhD research project. He ministered as a pastor in
a congregation of over 700 regular attendants in Kisumu, Kenya for four years. While serving in the
same church he also lectured part time at Ahero Evangelical School of Theology. Victor joined GWC
in 2006. He has published The Gospel in Africa: A Survey of African Theology from the 1960s to 2000.
His MA dissertation is entitled Resurrection Hope in the African Context: Challenging Luo beliefs and
practices concerning death. He is married to Mary and they have a son and a daughter.
Jonathan More (NT Greek; NT Exegesis; Early Church History)
B Eng (Electronic), M Eng (Electronic)(US), LTh (GWC), BA (Theology), Hons BA (PUCHE), ThM
(Princeton Theological Seminary, USA).
Jonathan is the first GWC graduate to be appointed to Faculty, having joined in 2001. He has been
involved with student ministry at St. Paul's (Stellenbosch) and the Free University in Amsterdam, and
is currently a member of Holy Trinity (Gardens, Cape Town). Jonathan's most recent publications
include "Prayer and the Kingdom in the Gospel of Luke," (SABJT), "Taking the Quandary out of
Christian Ethics" (with Deane-Peter Baker) (JTSA) and "Kingship Ideology: A Neglected Element in
Aristeas' Charter Myth for Alexandrian Judaism" in Septuagint and Reception (ed. Johann Cook).
Jonathan's current research is focussed on kingship ideology in Graeco-Roman philosophy and
Pauline Christology.
Alan Beckman (Anglican History, Faith & Practice)
LTh (BISA).
Alan, a former bank manager with over 20 years service, graduated from the Bible Institute and
George Whitefield College in 1990 and was then appointed as Administrator of GW C, covering both
academic and business administration. Following the rapid growth of the college, he is now Academic
Registrar. He also lectures in Anglicanism (history, doctrine, liturgy and the gospel sacraments). Alan
is married to Marilyn and they have three adult children. He is currently engaged in Masters studies in
Anglicanism.
Alan Profitt (Pastoral Ministry; Missions; Islamics)
Dip Th (BISA), B Th (Unisa), HDE (UCT), MA (Practical Theol. Pretoria Univ)
Alan serves with SIM and teaches courses at a number of evangelical theological colleges. He is
engaged with investigating topics for dialogue with Muslims, reading on HIV/AIDS, and reading and
dialogue with African Traditional Religions. Alan’s wife, Jeni, teaches Grade R at Eagles Wings School
in Khayelitsha. They have three Children who follow and serve the Lord. Alan enjoys sport and
meeting people.
Associate Faculty:
Mervyn Eloff (Biblical Theology; Old Testament)
BSc (U. Orange Free State), LTh (Bible Institute of SA), MTh, DTh (Stellenbosch).
Mervyn was Vice-Principal for a number of years and held the J C Ryle Lectureship in Biblical
Theology and Exegesis. He is now Rector of St James Church, Kenilworth and a highly valued
associate faculty member of the college. W hilst studying at the Bible Institute, he planted a church in
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Table View, Cape Town and then did a 3 year curacy at St Helen's Church, London under the
rectorship of Dick Lucas. On his return from the UK, Mervyn served as Rector of St Paul's Church
Stellenbosch, a church with a thriving student ministry. Mervyn joined the faculty of GW C in 1994. His
doctoral dissertation is on Matthew's Gospel and is entitled Restoration from Exile and the
Interpretation of Matthew's Gospel. Mervyn has remained actively involved in preaching and church
planting. He is the chairman of the Bible Teacher's Network, an organization designed to encourage
Bible teachers in the task of expository preaching. He is married to Alison and they have two
daughters.
Vhumani Magezi (Pastoral Ministry and Post Graduate Supervision)
DipEd (U. Zimbabwe), Dip. Training Management (Inst. Personel Management Zimbabwe), BA (North
West University), LTh (Bible Institute of SA), MTh, MPhil, D Th (U. Stellenbosch)
Dr Magezi’s doctoral research topic was: Life beyond infection: Home-based care to people with HIVpositive
status within a context of poverty. He worked in business and taught high school science while
at the same time being involved in Scripture Union and Baptist Youth Leadership before joining the
ministry. He has published Congregational Home-Based Pastoral Care: Merging the African Family
and Church Family Systems for Effective HIV Ministry (JTSA July 2006) and Between healing and
fanning pain: The dynamics of community healing and integrative pastoral care to the sick and
suffering in Africa (In die Skriflig 40(3), 2006). He is also researching and has presented seminar and
conference papers on several theological and developmental topics which include: Systemicecclesiological
responses to poverty and HIV/AIDS; HIV/AIDS pastoral therapy; Pastoral counselling
diagnosis in Africa; Community participation & community development; Impact of globalization on
Southern Africa economies; Culture and development; Social capital & development; Development
theories; Monitoring and evaluation designs; and Evaluation theory. Vhumani’s concern is to see the
Evangelical doctrine being responsibly merged with practice in Africa, being faithful in sharing the
gospel truth while at the same time demonstrating the gospel truth. His vision is to train Christian
leaders in Africa who are both competent in interpreting and applying the Bible to address the needs of
the people in order to advance the Kingdom of God.
Paul Bowers (Pauline Studies)
BA (Columbia International University), MA (Wheaton College Graduate School), MDiv (Trinity
International University), PhD (University of Cambridge).
Paul’s doctoral dissertation was Studies in Paul's Understanding of His Mission. He is currently based
in the USA but visits with GWC each year teaching Pauline studies and leading seminars. Paul has
served with SIM International in theological education in Africa since 1968 in Nigeria, Kenya and
Zimbabwe. He has worked administratively for the Accrediting Council for Theological Education in
Africa (ACTEA) since its founding in 1976, and for the International Council for Evangelical Theological
Education (ICETE) since its founding in 1980. He is currently ICETE's International Administrator. He
has been on the editorial staff of the Africa Journal of Evangelical Theology (Kenya) since 1982, and is
managing editor of Book Notes for Africa. He has published a number of books and articles. Paul is
married to Evie and they have two adult daughters.
John Newby (Church History; Post Graduate Supervision)
BTh, BTh Hons, MTh (Church History) (UNISA), DPhil (PUCHE).
John was formerly Vice-Principal of GW C and, since his retirement, continues to teach on a part-time
basis. The title of his doctoral thesis is The Theology of John Charles Ryle. Since 1974 he has been
an ordained minister of the Church of England of South Africa, during which time he was delegate to
the Reformed Ecumenical Synod (1976-1984); a member of the Theological Commission of CESA,
and convener of the Synod Commission on the Ministry of Women in the Church. He lectures
principally in Church History. He has acted as External Examiner of Masters' Dissertations for the
University of South Africa, and is a member of the Church History Society of SA.
Student Fees
Please see the attached student fees brochure.
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The Certificate in Theology
Programme Description and Aim:
The aim of this one year full-time programme is:
• to provide a basic theological and pastoral training for first-level church
workers for service in various church ministries.
• to provide a Biblical grounding for further higher education studies,
whether in theology or other fields of knowledge.
• to train the learner in the disciplines and skills required for higher
education studies, including the use of technology.
• to impart elementary skills for pastoring members of the community.
Programme Structure
The programme comprises fundamental, core and elective modules as shown
below. All modules are at NQF level 5. The certificate requires a minimum of
128 credits (A credit is nominally equivalent to 10 hours of work, including
contact lectures, study, etc). Fundamental and core modules are compulsory.
The credit rating is shown in brackets below.
Fundamental Modules
• Learning development (8 credits)
• Computer & information skills (8)
• Communication skills (8)
Core Modules
• Christian thought (32)
• Mission and culture (16)
• Biblical studies (40)
Programme Electives:
Applicants must choose at least one of the following electives:
• Pastoral ministry (16)
• Children’s ministry (16)
• Women’s ministry (16)
• Youth ministry (16)
• Mission (16)
Please note that electives will only be offered if there are sufficient
applicants in the opinion of the Faculty Board.
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Additional Modules
In addition, one or two language modules may be chosen, if desired. Note:
Either Greek or Hebrew may be selected, not both.
• New Testament Greek 1A (12)
• New Testament 1B (12)
• Biblical Hebrew 1A (12)
• Biblical Hebrew 1B (12)
Programme Outcomes:
Graduates of the Certificate in Ministry should be able to explain the basic
teachings of Christianity and the overall meaning of the Bible, and give talks
based on Old and New Testament passages and on simple biblical themes.
They should have an understanding of how churches are meant to function,
and elementary skills in teaching, counselling and small group leadership.
Entrance Requirements:
National Senior Certificate or equivalent with a minimum of 30% in English
language. (Per Government Gazette No. 751, 11 July 2008). Admission
through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is permitted for a maximum of
10% of the enrolment for any year. See the General Regulations for details of
RPL procedures. Learners in this category may be permitted to complete the
qualification over a maximum of two years with the Faculty Board’s agreement.
Applications for Credit:
Applications for advanced credit for individual modules must be applied for in
writing - see RPL procedures in the General Regulations. Credits may only be
granted for up to 30% of the total programme credit value.
Qualification Requirements:
A minimum of 128 credits with passes in all fundamental and core subjects.
See the general regulations and individual study guides for module pass
requirements. The qualification will be annotated to reflect the field of
specialisation determined by the electives chosen.
Holders of the Certificate in Theology may apply for entry into the Bachelor of
Theology programme.
Study Guides
At the commencement of each module you will receive a study guide which
sets out the, inter alia, the following information:
P
P
the aim of the module and how it contributes to the overall programme
outcomes.
the module outcomes
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P
P
P
an outline of the lecture programme
required and recommended reading
the assessment requirements
Assessment
The aim of assessment is to determine whether the outcomes, as specified in
the study guides, have been achieved. A variety of assessment methods are
used, both formative (i.e. on-going) - tests, assignments, class participation;
and summative (examinations). The exact method of assessment for each
module is specified in the module study guide, available at the commencement
of each module.
Module Descriptions
Code Cr Description and Outcomes
FUNDAMENTAL MODULES (24 credits):
SK101 8 Learning development
This course will enable you to learn and practise study methods that will help you to be
disciplined and effective in learning. The course will cover note taking, reading and writing
skills as well as the Harvard Reference system.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• design a realistic study timetable for yourself.
• read and take notes from books and journal articles.
• present usable lecture notes from college lectures.
• find and extract information from books and other resources in the library.
• analyse the contents and themes of books.
• write a clearly developed essay, avoiding logical errors.
• correctly use the Harvard Reference System.
SK103 8 Computer & Information Skills
In this course you will learn the basics of personal computers and a number of applications
You will also learn to use various electronic resources (including the internet) in your
research and to compile that research in an orderly fashion in a word processor.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• have a basic understanding of computer hardware, software and peripherals.
• utilise various programmes efficiently.
• use electronic media and methodology in your research.
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
PS101 8 Communication Skills
CORE MODULES (88 credits):
Communication covers the area of public reading of Scripture, preparing testimonies and
evangelistic talks, and preparation and delivery of expository sermons.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• read and speak clearly, intelligibly and commandingly in public.
• give a short talk with and without notes
• deliver your own testimony effectively
• prepare and deliver an evangelistic talk
• explain a Bible passage publicly
• prepare simple expository sermons
1 CHRISTIAN THOUGHT (32 credits):
CH110 8 Church History Introduction
DS107 8 Ethics 1
This basic church history course introduces one year students to the subject by describing
key moments, movements and personalities.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• trace the general progress of the church through the centuries.
• explain the significance of key figures in the church’s history.
This course examines what the Bible teaches about the moral will of God for human beings
that we may be better able to live a God-pleasing life and be able to evaluate modern
ethical dilemmas in the light of biblical ethics.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• show a basic knowledge of biblical ethics
• know and understand the meaning of each of the ten commandments in their original
context and in the light of the NT, the basic moral principles informing them, their scope
and how they relate to the modern world.
• articulate how Paul dealt with ethical issues in 1 Corinthians knowledgeably and
biblically discuss several contemporary moral issues, one in depth.
DS114 16 Introduction to Doctrine (Hard Questions)
Hard Questions is a major course which introduces you to what Christians believe and why
they believe it, in order that you may develop your own thoughtful, reasoned overview of the
Christian Faith.
At the end of this course you should be able to
• state in you own words answers to commonly asked questions about the nature of
Christian Faith.
• point to the scriptural passages relevant to the answering of those questions and
explain the meaning of the passages.
• give other reasons for why you believe these things to be true.
2 MISSION AND CULTURE (16 credits)
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
MS101 4 Introduction to World Religions
PS209 4 Evangelism
This course looks at the origins of the world religions and then serves to briefly introduce
you to a number of religions that are important in the local context, looking at their origins,
world-views, and cultural distinctives.
At the end of the course, you should be able to:
• state and defend a biblical understanding of the origin of religion as opposed to a
liberal understanding thereof.
• describe briefly the origins and history of the religions covered in this course.
• show a basic understanding of the ideas & practices and worldviews of the religions
covered in this course.
• begin to critically analyse these religions in the light of the claims of Christianity.
• begin to formulate ideas to equip yourself to evangelise people of other faiths.
This course looks at fundamental issues in evangelism and culminates in a practical
presentation of the gospel.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• describe briefly what the gospel is.
• discuss the question of how God’s sovereignty and human responsibility work together
in evangelism.
• state the necessity and incentive for evangelism.
• learn a method for presenting the gospel to unbelievers.
• go out in pairs to present the gospel to people in the local area.
MS106 4 Major World Religions
Building on MS101 (Introduction to World Religions), a three year cycle of study of major
religions begins. Recognised experts share their knowledge and experience of Islam,
Eastern Religions and African Traditional Religions.
At the end of these courses you should be able to:
• describe the origins and history of the religion covered.
• show a basic understanding of the ideas & practices and world views of the religion
covered in this course.
• critically analyse the religion covered in the light of the claims of Christianity.
• formulate ideas to equip yourself to evangelise people of the faith covered.
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
MS110 4 Worldviews
This course is designed to equip you with an understanding of the world in which we live
from the perspective of a “worldview”, and subsequently, to speak the Gospel effectively into
that world. The purpose is therefore to introduce the student to the concept of a ‘worldview’,
and to provide methods for its analysis. The course aims to demonstrate how the Christian
worldview can intellectually hold its own in philosophical debate as well as challenge
contrary worldviews in the history of modern thought.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• explain the concept ‘worldview’, and be able to discern one’s own from that of others,
and in particular to know what it is that comprises a ‘Christian Worldview’.
• describe critically the progression of worldviews following the wake of the
Enlightenment, and to become familiar with their basic tenets.
• explain how the Christian faith can hold its own in the world of ideas and satisfactorily
deal with the intellectual problems that confront it.
• analyse the ‘worlds’ which surround us, and use the necessary tools to speak the
Gospel effectively into these worlds.
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
3 BIBLICAL STUDIES (40 credits)
NT103 8 Introduction to the NT
NT104 8 Mark’s Gospel
This course provides you with a basic orientation to New Testament history, literature and
theology.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• demonstrate a general familiarity with the historical, geographical and cultural
background of the New Testament.
• demonstrate a more detailed knowledge of New Testament literature, including the
setting, theme, purpose and content of the individual parts.
• demonstrate a growing familiarity with the theology of the principal New Testament
writers, and with its relevance for life and ministry today.
This Bible book study will introduce you to the Gospels as a literary and theological form,
familiarise you with the content and message of Mark’s Gospel, and provide a model for the
exegesis and interpretation of the Synoptic Gospels.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• give an overview of the structure and content of the Gospel of Mark.
• explain the content and meaning of selected verses from Mark.
• discuss and explain key Markan themes using the text as a basis for discussion.
• think through and explain the significance of selected Markan texts to contemporary
Christian thought and conduct.
OT101 8 Introduction to the OT
This course aims to provide you with a broad literary, thematic and historical overview of the
Old Testament as well as some background to it.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• describe in broad outline the structure of the Old Testament Canon.
• name and briefly describe the literary genre and forms found within the OT.
• describe some key OT themes and concepts.
• outline the overall history covered in the OT period and the historical setting of its
individual books.
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
OT102 8 Biblical Theology
The course involves an investigation of theological unity of the Bible and the implications of
that unity for Biblical interpretation, employing the method of Biblical Theology. By Biblical
Theology we mean a distinctive approach to the theology of the whole bible in which we
trace the progressive unfolding of God’s revelation to humankind as it is recorded in the
scriptures and seek to discover how each part of the biblical revelation fits together.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• define Biblical Theology and explain its importance and use, as well as its relationship
to the other branches of theology.
• identify the major themes of the Old Testament and explain how they are progressively
developed through the canon.
• produce a schematic diagram of the main stages of Old Testament revelation as
“revelation of the Kingdom of God”.
• explain how the key theological themes within the Old Testament find their fulfilment in
the Person and Work of Jesus Christ.
• use the method of Biblical Theology to show the significance of key Old Testament
texts to the Christian reader.
OT103 8 Old Testament Exegesis
This course will introduce you to the structure, main themes and message of a selected Old
Testament book, and also to illustrate from a Biblical-Theological perspective, the methods
of Old Testament Exegesis which values it within its Canonical context.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• describe in broad outline the structure and contents of the selected book, as well as its
major themes.
• explain the purpose of the book within its Hebraic Canonical context, and more
significantly, its purpose as Christian Scripture.
• exegete the English text of the book showing the meaning of the text in its own context
as well as in the light of the New Testament.
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
ELECTIVES (at least 16 credits required)
1 PASTORAL MINISTRY
PS111 8 Church Life and Small Groups
Church Life deals with how congregations function, how their services are constructed, and
points to ways of using this knowledge to build the body of Christ. The Small Groups
component will present biblical and theological arguments for small groups in the church
and focus on understanding how groups work and how you should lead them. Attention will
be paid to leading inductive Bible studies.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• describe in schematic form the essential components of church life, as well as give real
examples of these functions.
• describe the activities of your church and identify areas of need.
• make helpful suggestions as to strategies for stimulating growth in areas of need.
• demonstrate a practical understanding of small group dynamics by being a constructive
participant in at least five small group meetings of your peers.
• lead a small group.
• prepare and lead an inductive Bible study for a small group.
PS130 8 Field Work (Practical Ministry Assignment)
2 CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
For this component you will be assigned to a local church or para-church organisation for
practical ministry purposes. The specific assignment(s) will be mutually agreed upon and
the outcomes and assessment method determined on an individual basis.
CM101 2 Children and God
This short course explores the Bible’s teaching on how children become children of God
and how they grow as Christians.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
give a biblically reasoned reply to the following questions:
• How does God view children?
• How do children become children of God?
• What methods are appropriate / inappropriate in leading children to God?
• How do children grow in faith?
• What conditions optimize or retard spiritual growth in children?
CM102 4 Teaching Method 1
This course helps you gain insight into how the brain works and how children learn and to
apply this in practical strategies to optimize learning.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• explain how the function of the brain impacts on learning
• apply the principles of brain-based teaching in lesson design and presentation
• use cooperative learning as an effective teaching and learning method.
• create a responsive learning environment
• use empowering language and behaviour while developing relationships.
• provide opportunities for imagery, fantasy, visualisation and creativity.
• include complex and challenging learning activities and movement in lesson design.
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
CM103 4 Christian Camping
This practical course covers all aspects of using camping to enrich the spiritual lives of
children.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• discuss the values and difficulties of taking children camping.
• compile a comprehensive camping manual.
• plan a camp.
CM120 8 Creative Communication & Drama
3 WOMEN’S MINISTRY
This hands-on course trains you in the use of various communication techniques, such as
puppets, that are especially effective with children. It includes a series of workshops to
inspire you and equip you to get your children learning and enjoying by doing drama.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• nominate and appreciate the value of a range of creative communication strategies.
• demonstrate developing skills in creative communication.
• facilitate interesting, enjoyable and memorable learning experiences for children
• explain and demonstrate practically the different concepts of drama
• communicate ideas with concepts by means of drama
• work purposefully and confidently with children in a drama group
• select and shape material for dramatic performance and other drama activities
PS212 4 Women’s Ministry I
PS312 4 Women’s Ministry II
These two modules aim to introduce you to a Biblical view of womanhood so that you can
be clear and confident of your self-identity and your unique God-given purpose within the
family, the church and contemporary society. The second module focusses more closely on
ministry options.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• describe some of the varying views of women
• describe the Biblical sources and evangelical arguments regarding women and their
functions in family and church
• have a basic understanding of the Biblical basis of marriage and family
• Apply a Biblical perspective to the issue of women’s roles and function, gender
differentiation and modern ethical issues
• demonstrate knowledge of practical leadership skills
• implement various women’s ministries.
PS130 8 Field Work (Practical Ministry Assignment)
For this component you will be assigned to a local church or para-church organisation for
practical ministry purposes. The specific assignment(s) will be mutually agreed upon and
the outcomes and assessment method determined on an individual basis.
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
4 YOUTH MINISTRY
PS211 4 Youth Ministry
This course will give you a basic introduction towards understanding adolescence and
contemporary youth culture, and will present models of ministry to young people.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of this module you should be able to:
• demonstrate an understanding of adolescence and contemporary youth culture
• set up a youth ministry curriculum based on a biblical model.
• recruit and train a youth ministry team and run a youth group.
PS221 4 Youth Ministry Advanced
This course, which is in the process of development, will build on PS211 to give you an
advanced insight into youth ministry, with input from a number of youth pastors.
PS130 8 Field Work (Practical Ministry Assignment)
5 MISSION
For this component you will be assigned to a local church or para-church organisation for
practical ministry purposes. The specific assignment(s) will be mutually agreed upon and
the outcomes and assessment method determined on an individual basis.
MS130 4 Introduction to Mission
This course, which is in the process of development, will provide an introduction to Missions
with consideration of various models.
MS205 4 Mission, Culture & Context
This course aims to develop your understanding of the concept of culture, how the Bible
relates to culture, the interaction between mission and culture and the way this interaction
impacts the cross-cultural communication of the gospel. We also explore the
contextualisation process from an anthropological and Biblical perspective.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• describe your own culture and inherent ethnocentrism
• recognise how societies are structured, how they function and how social institutions
are inter-dependant on each other.
• acquire some skills and attitudes to live in another culture.
• overcome cultural biases and understand and appreciate diversities of behaviour and
thought.
PS130 8 Field Work (Practical Ministry Assignment)
For this component you will be assigned to a local church or para-church organisation for
practical ministry purposes. The specific assignment(s) will be mutually agreed upon and
the outcomes and assessment method determined on an individual basis.
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
6 BIBLICAL LANGUAGES
GK110 12 Greek Grammar 1A
This course will introduce you to the language of the New Testament with the ultimate aim
of equipping you with skills in translation and exegesis. We begin with an intensive eight
days solely focussed on this course to enable you to learn quickly without the distraction of
other courses.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• provide English equivalents for the NT Vocabulary in Wenham chapters 1-15
• recall and apply the tables (paradigms) of Wenham chapters 1-15
• identify the significance of mood, tense, case, gender, etc for translation
• recognise and provide idiomatic translation of Greek syntactical constructions
• make effective use of tools for research (concordances, lexicons, grammars,
dictionaries, etc)
GK111 12 Greek Grammar 1B
This course builds on GK101 to further equip you with skills in translation and exegesis.
At the end of this course you should be able to:
• provide English equivalents for the NT Vocabulary in Wenham.
• recall and apply the tables (paradigms) of Wenham.
• identify the significance of mood, tense, case, gender, etc for translation
• recognise and provide idiomatic translation of Greek syntactical constructions
• make effective use of tools for research (concordances, lexicons, grammars,
dictionaries, etc)
• read selected parts of 1 John in Greek
HB210 12 Biblical Hebrew A
This course begins with an intensive ten days (language school) of creative learning
techniques to introduce you to Hebrew for the first time. Although intensive, it builds
knowledge in several areas simultaneously laying the foundations of alphabet, word and
sentence construction and basic grammar. The relation to other Semitic languages is
briefly explored and attention is given throughout to the relevance and importance of Biblical
Hebrew. After language school, we aim to lay the grammatical groundwork for reading
Biblical Hebrew with the aid of Hebrew tools. Rudimentary syntax is covered and illustrated
through inductive reading exercises. Students are introduced to the latest computer
software, and time is allotted for hands-on tutorials in ‘Bible Works’ and ‘Libronix’.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• understand basic Hebrew Grammar
• parse basic Hebrew words with the aid of a lexicon
• recognise fifty Hebrew words
• grasp basic sentence structure
• translate simple Bible texts by utilising a lexicon.
• have some competence in utilising a technical commentary
• show some proficiency with Hebrew computer tools
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Code Cr Description and Outcomes
HB211 16 Biblical Hebrew B
This course builds on HB210 and has as its main aim the grasp of syntax. Most of the time
will be taken up reading allotted texts with special attention to the benefits for the preacher
in undertaking his own translation. Simultaneously, the student’s knowledge of the
grammar is developed. Smaller classes provide the attraction of a high level of
learner/facilitator interaction.
At the end of the course you should be able to:
• translate simple Bible texts on your own
• translate more complex texts with lexical aid.
• integrate the translation work with exegesis and theology.
• show rudimentary ability to work with the apparatus of the BHS.
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STUDENT SUPPORT
General Information
Student Council
Full-time students annually elect a representative council to deal with student
matters. The Council chair (or nominee) attends Faculty meetings on a regular basis
to represent student interests.
Campus
GWC is beautifully located in the sea-side suburb of Muizenberg, Cape Town
between the mountains of the Silvermine section of the Table Mountain National
Park and the long, white sandy beaches of False Bay. Muizenberg is a vibrant
cosmopolitan area. There are many outdoor attractions such as hiking, birdwatching,
swimming and water sports, especially surfing. There are also numerous
sites and buildings of historical and cultural interest. The beach, shops, an internet
café, a public library and the railway station are all within a short walking distance.
Accommodation
GWC has fully catered accommodation available for single students and a number
of apartments for rental to married students. Accommodation is limited so it is
important to make early application for a place in the residence.
Daily Programme
During term, lectures normally commence at 08:00 and conclude at 15:30, Monday
to Friday. Each day includes either a chapel service, fellowship group meeting,
prayer meeting or Principal’s Hour with invited guest speakers. Timetables give full
details of the daily programme. A College luncheon for all students is generally held
every alternate Monday after chapel. Where no lectures or tutorials are scheduled
the time is available for study, reading and research. Full-time students are expected
to devote at least 42 hours per week to their studies (including contact lectures).
Library and Information Services
The library and study centre are located in the purpose-built and well-appointed
Broughton Knox Centre which opened in 2006. Students will find a comprehensive
reference and lending library and an entire floor of study carrels providing a pleasant
study environment. There is also a well-equipped computer room providing access
to various software and information programmes, e-mail and internet.
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Bookshop
GWC has an Academic Bookshop on campus which stocks all the required
textbooks as well as a wide range of supplementary books at discounted prices. The
bookshop aims to supply students with the right books at the best possible prices. If
you would like a list of required textbooks, please phone or e-mail the bookshop
manager, Jane Kratz, at bookshop@gwc.ac.za specifying which course/s you will be
studying. Approximate prices will be e-mailed to you. A current stock list can be
downloaded from the website: www.gwc.ac.za/resources.
Practical Training
Each student is given an appointment at one of the local churches to assist the
church and for practical training experience. In addition, each year at the end of first
semester, all students are assigned to a “Ministry Week” team as part of the training
at GWC. These teams go to work in various churches in South Africa and beyond,
with the students living in the local communities and engaging in various forms of
ministry. “Ministry Week” is a highlight of the calendar and has been a life-changing
experience for many of the students.
Language School
At GWC we have found that the best approach to learning the Biblical languages is
to start with a dedicated, intensive ten day “Summer School” at the start of the
academic year. Lectures are held for the full day during this period.
Commencement Camp
A two day camp is held at the start of each academic year, usually after the summer
school. The camp affords a good opportunity for students to relax and get to know
each other and the Faculty. Some orientation training is also given at this time.
Skills Development
New students are given special training in study, learning and research skills on a
weekend away from the College. Computer and information research skills, including
use of the internet, are also taught in the College’s computer laboratory.
Financial Assistance
The George Whitefield College Trust, a separate legal entity governed by a board of
trustees, provides bursaries and loans for financially disadvantaged students on
application. Funds are limited and assistance is not normally provided in the first
year of studies. Full details and application forms are available from the secretary of
the Trust.
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Applications from foreigners
GWC welcomes applications from prospective students from other countries. Final
acceptance is provisional upon the applicant obtaining a student visa from the
nearest South African representative office. Please note the following important
information:
1. It is illegal to enter South Africa to study without a valid study visa. This must be
applied for and issued from the nearest South African foreign office in your own
country. The onus is on the prospective student to obtain the visa, although the
College will assist as far as possible.
2. The South African Department of Home Affairs will not issue a study visa without
the following prerequisites:
They must be satisfied that funds are available to fully cover your tuition
and university fees.
They must be satisfied that funds are available to fully cover your living
expenses for the time you are in South Africa. This also applies to your
family if they are accompanying you.
You must have medical insurance for yourself and your family.
A repatriation bond is required of students coming to study in South Africa.
However this requirement has been waived in respect of students and
their families coming to study at religious institutions. Not all embassies
and/or their staff are aware of this ruling and you may need to ask them to
check with Pretoria in case of doubt.
3. The visa application process can be fairly lengthy and it is therefore
important to make application as early as possible in the year prior to
intended admission.
A separate brochure with full details of the procedures to be adopted and vital
information is available. Please request a copy - this can be e-mailed to you.
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How to apply for admission
1. The first step is to complete and submit a Preliminary Application
form (obtainable from the college and on the website). This form
gives us some basic information but does not imply commitment
on the part of the College or yourself.
2. Upon receipt of the Preliminary Application form, the Principal
will arrange an interview for you. If you are situated some
distance away, he will arrange for a responsible local person to
conduct the interview. The purpose of the interview is to get to
know something about you and to make a (hopefully mutual)
decision as to whether you should proceed with an application.
3. Should the decision be to proceed with an application, the GWC
Application Form will be given to you to complete and return
together with copies of supporting documents. In the application
form you are required to supply the names of three people
(including your pastor) from whom we can obtain references.
4. After receipt of a correctly complete application, an
acknowledgement will be sent to you and confidential referees
reports will be sent to the three people you named.
5. Once all referees’ reports have been received, your application
will be placed before the Faculty Board.
6. The Faculty Board will consider the application in terms of the
regulations and will advise you of its decision as soon as
possible.
The right of admission to George Whitefield College is the
prerogative of the Faculty Board whose decision is final.
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