What is it about?

This postgraduate programme aims to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of Christian Theology, Ministry and Mission. The programme is designed to provide a solid background in Children, Youth and Family Ministry for students who wish to develop their understanding of this area of ministry and theology, those who wish to reflect on their practice at an advanced level or who are planning to go on to do research in this area.

What is involved?

To complete the MA programme, students must complete taught units totalling 120 credits and then a dissertation of 15,000 words (worth 60 credits). There is a compulsory module on MA Research and Resource Methods.

Upon the successful completion of taught units totalling 120 credits, a student may progress to the MA dissertation. The MA programme can be completed full time in 12 months or part time over 2-4 years. Students who do not progress to the dissertation but complete 120 credits are awarded a Postgraduate Diploma. Students taking just 60 credits are awarded a Postgraduate Certificate.

What can I study?

All MA students take part in a mandatory module on Research Methods. Full time students take this as the introductory module at the start of the course but part time students may defer this until a subsequent year.

Students choose taught modules totalling 120 credits. Modules are 20 credits each so that students will complete six taught units (a minimum of 40 credits per year for part-time students) Please note that some modules may be offered only in alternate years. Students are encouraged to attend the College for block week teaching for at least some of the taught modules, in order to benefit from interaction with other students. Skype supervision sessions can be arranged for those writing dissertations at a distance.

Indicative taught modules:

  • Research and Reflection: Resources and Methods
  • Ministry and Mission with Children, Families and Young People
  • Advanced Theory and Method in Practical Theology
  • Spirituality of the Child

Students may also take modules in other subject areas, e.g.;

  • Reflective Practice: Mission and Evangelism
  • Advanced New Testament Studies – Hebrews
  • Themes in Moral Theology
  • Chaplaincy and Christian Mission

(Please note this is not the full list of modules available, different modules are available in different years.)

What are the entry requirements?

The normal entrance requirement is a good degree (2.1 or first class honours degree in the British system) in theology or a related discipline. For students with a good degree in a non-related discipline we offer a Graduate Diploma as a route into studying for the MA. For mature students prior learning and life experience will also be considered. These courses are validated by Durham University and entry qualifications must be from institutions recognised by this university.

For further information on specific aspects of the course please follow the links below:









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