Master in Theology, Ministry and Mission

This post-graduate degree in theology, ministry, and mission, is validated by Durham University as part of the Common Awards scheme. It is an opportunity to develop theological studies, ideal for those engaged in any service in the Church, either lay or ordained. It is particularly suitable for those in the early years of ministry or later where sabbatical leave enables further study and reflection. It is a distance learning course designed to fit around your work and other commitments.

The MA is normally open to those with a good theology degree. Depending on your previous qualifications and experience the course can usually be completed in three years.

MA modules

You will study 7 level 7 modules, part-time over three years, relating theological knowledge to your professional & personal circumstances. You will be the engaged in the advanced study of key biblical passages and challenging theological texts. You will reflect on the theory and practice of mission, evangelism and practical theology, relating this to your own experience, shared with others, so as to enhance and deepen your ministry. You will be guided in ways to research important material to develop your own ideas, particularly through your dissertation. This final large piece of work is an opportunity to study in depth a theological topic of your own choice directed related to your own ministry.

The assessment of work is varied, through the media of assignments, reflections, exegeses, and portfolios. Your personal tutor will help you prepare for these and offer advice on how to develop your learning. Each module will be marked, with an overall grade for the MA.

Please contact us if you require more details about the modules or the assessment.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

• Research and reflections, resources and methods
• Education and the Learning Church
• Advanced Theory and Methods in Practical Theology
• Advanced Bible Study
• Advanced Study of a Theological Text
• Reflective Practice: Mission and Evangelism
• Dissertation

How to apply

Applications for entry to this course are accepted at any time, but we enroll new students in the Autumn of each year. You will need to be a graduate, usually of theology, but we will consider those with other suitable qualifications or experience. When your application is accepted you will be allocated a tutor who will guide you through your studies. Also, you will have access to our online Moodle site with study material, forums, feedback forms and details about the assessment for each module. Simply complete the application form and return it by email.

The deadline for applications is 31st August to start in September.

As part of the application process overseas students will need to supply evidence that any previous overseas study / education is comparable to UK qualifications. This can be done through NARIC https://www.naric.org.uk/naric/Individuals/Default.aspx

NARIC can also provide evidence of English Language Assessment which is a Durham University requirement for anyone whose first language is not English. Requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes https://www.dur.ac.uk/learningandteaching.handbook/1/3/3/1/

Fees 2018/19

We keep our fees competitive because we want many to access all our courses. In 2018/19 the annual fee for the MA is £1860. This covers your distance tutor, any classes or groups, online materials and the university validation. This fee may be subject to a small rise each year, and as MA course takes three years the total fee may be around £5800.

We offer a 5% discount to all those who apply and pay the annual fee by 31st August. This reduces the annual fee from £1860 to £1767.

For those on a tighter budget, we offer payment by installments. For the MA you will pay £620 by 31st August, £620 by 31st December and £620 by 31st March. Each module must be paid for prior to starting the study.

Unfortunately, we are not able to offer a refund if you leave the course during the year. However, it is possible in special circumstances to take a break from your studies, subject to a deferral fee of £80, and return to your studies in the following year.