Yarra Theological Union

The unit focuses on the nature, historical development, and contemporary practice of Christian mission. Key areas of study include:

Exploring current definitions and perspectives within Missiology.

Examining both historical and contemporary aspects of mission through key Catholic mission documents.

Analyzing the impact of colonialism on mission.

Highlighting the importance of mission within a modern context, particularly looking at the missionary nature of Christian vocation.

Available in-person and online, synchronous and asynchronous, for credit and not for credit.

Please contact [email protected] for more details.

This unit explores the history, theologies, and spiritualities of the patristic period, spanning from the deaths of the apostles up to the pontificate of Gregory the Great (600 CE). It focuses on the diverse cultures and experiences that shaped the earliest centuries of the Christian church and examines how these foundational events continue to influence contemporary theology and spirituality.

Available in-person and online, synchronous and asynchronous, for credit and not for credit.

Please contact [email protected] for more details.

The Therese D'Orsa Mission Education Bursaries are open for Semester 2 2026.
Please see our website, ytu.edu.au, for more information.
The closing date is Friday 17th July 2026.

This unit explores the theological story of the Second Vatican Council (1962 to 1965), considered the defining event in the Catholic Church since the Reformation. It focuses on how the Council balanced two major movements:

-Ressourcement (Rediscovery): Efforts to rediscover the core foundations of the faith with fresh eyes, specifically focusing on the Scriptures and how early bishops and theologians interpreted them, thereby recovering a deeper sense of tradition.

-Aggiornamento (Renewal): The intention to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ into the contemporary world, directly addressing the aspirations and concerns of modern women and men.

Key Focus Areas
The unit examines the theology of key Council documents and connects them to the development of current theology. Priority is given to the four Constitutions of the Council, which serve as the primary interpretive key to understanding Vatican II's overall theology.

Available in-person and online, synchronous and asynchronous, for credit and not for credit.

Please contact [email protected] for more details.

This unit will be team taught by members of our faculty.

It is designed as an introductory exploration of the foundational themes, sources, and key beliefs of the Christian faith. Inspired by the perspective that "the world is charged with the grandeur of God" (G.M. Hopkins), the curriculum focuses on:

-Interpreting and interrogating the history and development of Christian beliefs.

-Examining a variety of theological approaches.

-Evaluating why these theological concepts continue to matter and how they relate to the contemporary world.

Available in-person and online, synchronous and asynchronous, for credit and not for credit.

Please contact [email protected] for more details.

This unit serves as a comprehensive introduction to the Old Testament, balancing historical context with critical literary analysis. Students will engage with:

Historical & Geographical Contexts: A foundational study of biblical Israel, Judah (ca. 1000–63 BCE), and the surrounding ancient Near Eastern world.

Literature & Canon Formation: A structural survey of the Old Testament canon and the diverse genres of biblical literature.

Exegetical Methodologies: An introduction to contemporary critical methods of biblical interpretation and their practical application to specific texts.

This unit is ideal for students pursuing theological degrees, ministry formation, or advanced biblical research.

Available in-person and online, synchronous and asynchronous, for credit and not for credit.

Please contact [email protected] for more details.

This unit investigates some of the ways in which visual images, such as painting and sculpture, reflected the spiritual characteristics and preoccupations of the Late Middle Ages, 1300-1500.
After identifying the most important sacred stories and their chief personages, i.e. Jesus, the Virgin Mary and various saints, the unit examines the patrons and audience for these "images of salvation".
What objects inspired devotion and how did these paintings, sculptures and other objects instruct the faithful in the mysteries of faith?

Available in-person and online, synchronous and asynchronous, for credit and not for credit.

Please contact [email protected] for more details.

Join us to study the Gospel of Mark

This unit provides a foundational study of the Gospel of Mark, focusing on its historical origins, literary structure, and distinct theological perspective. Students will learn how to critically analyze biblical texts and understand how Mark’s narrative fits into the broader context of the Synoptic Gospels.

Available in-person and online, synchronous and asynchronous, for credit and not for credit.

Please contact [email protected] for more details.

How do we lead, serve, and innovate in the modern Church?

This unit tackles the urgent issues and evolving practices of contemporary Christian ministry. By grounding your study in scriptural origins and tracing major historical developments, you will explore how mission and ministry operate today across both Catholic and ecumenical settings.

Because church structure and ministry constantly shape one another, you will dive deep into ecclesiology, analyze the distinct dynamics of lay versus ordained leadership, and build the vital ministerial spirituality needed to sustain and inspire the future of pastoral leadership.

Available in-person and online, synchronous and asynchronous, for credit and not for credit.

Please contact [email protected] for more details.

This unit dives into the heart of the human spiritual experience through historical, theological, and anthropological lenses. You will explore traditional Christian paths—from active apostolic ministries to deep mystical traditions—while also expanding your horizon with indigenous and eco-spiritualities.

This isn't just theory. It’s a transformational journey designed to challenge, inspire, and invite you to connect ancient wisdom directly to your own personal world.

Available in-person and online, synchronous and asynchronous, for credit and not for credit.

Please contact [email protected] for more details.