St Francis College

Welcome

St Francis College is a welcoming learning community that provides theological education for a diverse range of students, including those being formed for ordained ministry in the Anglican Church for the Diocese of the Southern Queensland and beyond. By studying Scripture and theology in the light of contemporary experience, students prepare for lay and ordained ministry and mission in parishes, schools and other mission agencies as well as living, serving and leading as a Christian in the wider community. 

We are committed to the study of Christian theology in an inclusive, ecumenical, creative, safe and supportive learning environment where scholarship, prayer and community life are valued.
You are most welcome to join us.

Warm regards,
Rev’d Dr Ruth Mathieson, Principal

History

St Francis College has been offering theological studies since 1897, when the small group of candidates for ordination met in the rectory at All Saints Church, Brisbane. In 1938, St Francis College moved to the beautiful Milton site, with Old Bishopsbourne at the centre.  During its history, the College has offered courses as part of the Australian College of Theology, the Brisbane College of Theology, CSU School of Theology and now as a member College of the University of Divinity. St Francis College has collaborated with the University of Queensland, Griffith University, and Charles Sturt University. From its origins as a seminary for single men preparing for ordination as priests, the College has transformed into a diverse ecumenical learning community that welcomes anyone interested in theological studies, regardless of gender, sexual identity, prior educational background or vocational aspirations.

St Francis College Campus

St Francis College is located on a renowned heritage site in Milton, just 3kms from Brisbane’s CBD, and is part of the Anglican Church Southern Queensland’s Ministry Education Commission.

St Francis College’s campus is centrally located close to rail, ferry, and bus services.

St Francis is located on the sovereign and unceded country of the Turrbal nation. We pay our respects to their elders, who have cared for this country since its creation, and commit ourselves to work towards a more just settlement for all Indigenous people.

Campus facilities

• The Roscoe Library includes quiet individual study spaces, public computers and copying facilities.
• Free WiFi is available throughout the campus
• The Chapel of the Holy Spirit holds daily services during semester and is available for private prayer during the day.
• There are many outdoor spaces for reflection and meditation in tranquil surroundings
• Tea and coffee making facilities are available, as well as a fridge and microwave in Lecture Room One’s kitchenette
• Short term accommodation is available during workshops or intensives for distance students
• Student rental accommodation – individual bedrooms are available with shared bathroom, kitchen, and lounge
• Lecture rooms and heritage listed function or conference rooms for hire

Roscoe Library

The Roscoe Library supports St Francis College students and staff and, more broadly, those of the Anglican Church Southern Queensland (ACSQ) and the University of Divinity. 

As well as substantial resources to support academic study in the traditional areas of biblical studies, systematic theology, church history and ministry studies, the collection provides for faith formation, spiritual direction, youth work and children’s ministry. 

Collection Strengths 

Anglicanism; emerging theologies; social and environmental justice; visual arts and film. 

Special Collection 

The Old Bishopsbourne Heritage Collection includes resources from the libraries of people of significance to the Anglican Church in Queensland especially Benjamin Glennie, Montagu Stone-Wigg, David Garland, George Halford, Felix Arnott and Ivor Church, together with other treasured older resources.