[Faces of Domuni] Nicholas Brodie

[EPISODE 11] – Nick Brodie
Domuni: A Space for Study in Service of an Inner Quest

Nick Brodie holds a PhD in History and serves as an author and Dean of Academic Studies at a university in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. He is currently enrolled in a Master of Arts (MA2) in Theology, specializing in Biblical Studies in English, at Domuni Universitas.

A Deepening Search for Meaning

After completing a doctorate in History and pursuing a career in academic research and teaching, a sustained desire remained to undertake further formation and deepen theological knowledge. The COVID-19 period provided the necessary time to embark on this path and to seek a program aligned with these aspirations.

Numerous options worldwide were explored before ultimately choosing Domuni.

Domuni: An International Dominican University

What proved particularly compelling was the opportunity to study with and be formed by the Dominican Order. I also chose Domuni for its fully online teaching, its international dimension, and the opportunity to study alongside students from all over the world. Domuni truly corresponds to what I was looking for.

The Master of Arts (MA2) in Theology, with a specialization in Biblical Studies, places universality at the heart of its pedagogical approach. It embodies a genuinely universal Catholic education—an aspect that was especially appealing.

I particularly value the flexibility of the 100% online courses, which enable me to study at my own pace, to organize my schedule accordingly, and to integrate my studies with my professional commitments. Approximately half of working time is dedicated to academic study, which integrates smoothly into daily life.

Explorations Beyond the programme

Since the beginning of this academic journey, extensive reading beyond the formal programme has been undertaken, alongside engagement in a wide range of independent research topics. The courses provide a structured framework that opens onto a broader set of intellectual “secondary quests”.

Significant moments and encounters have also marked this journey. One particularly formative experience was receiving feedback on the very first assignment. This provided reassurance and confidence, confirming that the work undertaken was both rigorous and aligned with academic expectations.

Among the most meaningful encounters, that with Adrien Judd stands out. His support in learning Greek—a subject that initially presented a considerable challenge—proved invaluable.

And Why Not the Diaconate?

I began my studies at Domuni with a certificate, followed by a transitional master’s programme, and I am currently pursuing a second-year Master of Arts. Why not consider a PhD thereafter?

However, my primary objective at present is the path toward the diaconate. Now that I am better formed in theology, I have begun discussing this with my diocese, and this discernment is now at the heart of my reflections.