The Foundation Award in Theology, Ministry and Mission is a validated, affordable and flexible course providing an introduction to theological study. Students can use it as a stepping stone into further study, with credits counting towards future programmes.
All programmes are validated by Durham University as part of the Common Awards Scheme.
Operating online, you can take it whenever it suits you, wherever you are, alongside your current work. You’ll have a mix of study by yourself and in community with others.
Students will be part of a learning cohort with others, led by a tutor. The course uses our innovative online learning platform with courses taught by Oak Hill faculty.
Studying three 10 week modules a year, we recommend 8-10 hours per week for each module, meaning you can study one day a week, over a weekend or a number of evenings.
Over the duration of this course, you'll complete six 10-credit modules, designed to build a strong understanding of Christian life and ministry. These modules will equip you with essential skills for interpreting The Bible and understanding Old or New Testament books, alongside practical training in mission, evangelism, and effective discipleship.
Foundations for the Christian Life (TMM1517 Introduction to Spirituality and Discipleship)
Foundations for Knowing God (TMM1107 Brief Introduction to Christian Doctrine)
Foundations for Reading the Bible (TMM1047 Methods of Reading the Bible)
Foundations for Understanding Isaiah (TMM1607 Introduction to an Old Testament Book)
Foundations for Mission (TMM1697 Elements of Mission and Evangelism)
Foundations for Discipling Others (TMM1717 Introduction to Growing Faith)
Taking in a wide breadth of Christian theology it’s the perfect place to start if you’ve not studied theology before or want to develop your thinking further following initial training courses. Students can use it as a stepping stone into further study, with credits counting towards future programmes.
Each student needs a reference from their church, then:
Normally a minimum of one A Level (grade E or above) or equivalent.
However for mature students (those aged 21 and over) relevant work experience may be considered as an alternative to formal academic qualifications.
Applicants whose first language is not English must satisfy the College that they have a sufficient command of spoken and written English to meet the demands of their chosen programme. IELTS Academic or equivalent is therefore required at 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any component.
You can find out more about equivalent qualifications, along with details about any exemptions, here.
As this is an online course, international students are eligible to apply without needing a student visa.
Applications for September 2026 entry will open in January.
Closing date applications - Friday 3 July 2026 (12 noon)
Other important dates - including interview days and bursary application dates can be found here.
The first module of the Foundation Award (Foundations of the Christian Life) costs £300 and can be treated as a Taster Module.
The full programme is £2,800 over the two years of the programme with a possibility to pay in instalments.
Fees include the Durham registration fee, online library access and access to all the materials on the course through our virtual learning environment.
I trusted Oak Hill to give me a solid, evangelical education...and the part-time course structure made it logistically possible.
For Katie, part time study was the perfect fit as she balanced working for a church and studying.
Read more