Learning, teaching and assessment
Our newly revalidated postgraduate programmes offer a broader range of option modules, especially in the areas of doctrine, church history and practical ministry, along with modules which are designed to integrate theological disciplines.
Teaching and learning together
Our ultimate aim is not just to impart information but to work towards the transformation of students as they reflect with others on loving Christ more deeply in order to explain him simply. We pursue the enhancement of teaching and learning within the College by fostering:
• habits in the lecturer of reflective, self-critical intentionality and innovation
• an ethos in the classroom of directed, active and hospitable learning
• an ethos amongst the faculty of collegiality, teachability and servant leadership
• an ethos in the College of teachability, servant leadership and worship
Study hours and make up of study
Within Higher Education, it is generally understood that 1 credit = 10 hours of study, shared between class time, pre-class reading, private study and assessment.
This means that a 30 credit module = 300 hours of study. So for the PGDip, 120 credits = 1200 study hours over the course of the programme as a whole.
In-class learning involves lectures, seminars, discussions, worked examples and presentations. Out-of-class study involves reading, reflecting, researching, writing assignments, group projects and revision for exams.
Learning, teaching and assessment
The College aims to provide a learning experience which is demanding and exhilarating, reflecting the highest academic standards as well as excellence in pedagogy. The programme offers a rich and varied learning experience which encompasses lectures, seminars, language classes, field trips, placements and a range of formative and summative assessments. Through these assessments, the College aims to provide all students with an equal opportunity to demonstrate their achievement of Threshold Learning Outcomes (at module level) and Programme Learning Outcomes. Underlying all of the College’s programmes is a commitment both to information and to transformation, and a belief that the sub-disciplines within Theology are integrated within the framework provided by scripture, which can and does speak into every area of life.
You will be awarded the PGDip Theology once you have attained grade 12 or better in modules worth 120 credits at Level 7.
The PGDip is closely related to the PGCert Theology (60 credits): a PGDip student who passes two Specialist Master's Level taught modules (60 credits), including the core module BD6.4, but who does not meet the remaining programme requirements for the PGDip may be awarded a PGCert as an exit qualification.
The PGDip is also closely related to the MA Theology (180 credits): the two programmes draw on the same selection of taught modules and require the same number and distribution of taught modules. An MA student who passes 120 credits at Level 7, including the core module BD6.4, but not the MA dissertation package (60 credits) may be awarded the PGDip as an exit qualification. Conversely, on application to the Admissions Office, a PGDip student may be allowed to ‘top-up’ to registration for the MA Theology. There are strict deadlines for such an application, since a successful student needs to meet timing requirements for preparation of the MA dissertation package. A student who has successfully completed the PGDip may later apply to ‘top-up’ to the MA by completing the 60-credit dissertation package.