12

week course

3

hour lecture each week

11

hours work each week

Book here

Applications close 12 noon 21st August 2026

What you'll learn

This short course introduces students to the rich and varied ways Christians have interpreted the Bible across the history of the church. Exploring historical, literary and reader-focused approaches to Scripture, students will engage critically with key hermeneutical methods and the assumptions that shape them, while developing confidence in relating the Bible thoughtfully to contemporary issues in church and society. The course encourages both charitable engagement and critical discernment, equipping students to interpret Scripture with greater depth, wisdom and theological awareness.

Each week will consist of a three-hour interactive lecture. Student preparation will be expected based on the set reading for each week and any additional online activities. Alongside the 3 hour lectures each week there are around 8 hours of reading each week. As this is a non-accredited short course there are no assignments to be completed

Students are expected to attend all classes and interact on the online forums between lectures.

This course can be taken in person or online. 

Key Dates

Lectures take place on Thursdays 13:40-17:30.

Teaching begins on Thursday 10th September and continues until Thursday 17th December with breaks on 1st October, 22nd October, 29th October and 26th November.

Who is this for?

This is a postgraduate module. Those applying to take this course need to have a miniumum of a DipHE in Theology or an accredited American MA in Theology of equivalent. Students may only take 2 postgraduate courses over the course of their short course study.

Cost

£350

Oak Hill alumni get one free short course per year.

Cancellation Policy

  • 90% refund for cancellations 14+ days in advance.

  • 50% refund for cancellations 7–14 days before the event.

  • No refund for cancellations less than 7 days before or on the day of the event.

If you have any questions pertaining to signing up for your course, group rates, or church rates email cpd@oakhill.ac.uk.

Course teachers

Dr Eric Ortlund

Old Testament and Biblical Hebrew
Learn more about Dr Ortlund

Dr Krisztina Mair

Philosophy, Ethics and Apologetics
Learn more about Dr Mair

Revd Dr Tim Ward

Vice Principal (Teaching & Learning), Hermeneutics and Word Ministry
Learn more about Revd Dr Ward