The programs in civil ceremonies prepare students to plan and conduct public
ceremonies of recognition such as weddings, namings and graduations, and
ceremonies of grief such as funerals and divorce. They aim to enable graduates
to provide expert advice on precedent and etiquette and to help people handle
the often emotionally charged processes of moving through a rite of passage.
The programs aim to prepare graduates to orchestrate the delicate issues of
planning and conducting rites of passage with sensitivity, dignity and
propriety. They are designed to develop an appropriate understanding of the
possibilities and limitations of the role of a celebrant, including listening
carefully to clients and, where appropriate, referring them elsewhere for
professional legal and counselling advice. Literary and musical content of
ceremonies are considered.
This emerging profession has grown substantially since the first appointments
were made in 1973 such that in 2001 more than 51 per cent of all marriages in
Australia were performed by civil marriage celebrants. People who perform
functions touching the lives of others are widely expected to have been trained
to undertake what they do. Mid-year entry is available for all of the courses
and programs listed below.
Previous page | Next page | Section contents | Title and contents