Theology For Life
BTh (Hons) in Theology for Discipleship, Ministry, and Mission
Information for Applicants
Theology for Life is a programme of theological study run by St Padarn’s Institute for the Church in Wales and validated by the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David.
Watch the Video below to find out more:
The course helps people to deepen their theological understanding and draw upon the insights of academic study to support the Church. The course also serves as one component of the training for those preparing for Licensed and Ordained ministries. Those training for ministries must also must go through a Church in Wales selection process and will need to fulfil other training requirements. The course has inspired some students to explore their own vocation for ministry.
Entry requirements
Applicants who are under 21 should have at least 64 UCAS Tariff Points (e.g. Two Ds and an E at A-Level or equivalent).
Where applicants do not meet the normal entry criteria, or are over the age of 21, admission may be permitted if the applicant’s experience and/or qualifications can reasonably be expected to suggest that the applicant will succeed on the programme.
Our admissions policy can be found by clicking on the policies button at the bottom of the page.
Course information
Each module will involve 20 hours of contact time with a further 180 hours of independent study. The independent study might consist of focussed reading for group sessions, general reading around the subject such as bible study, worship, discussions with fellow students, and assignment work. A degree of commitment and dedication from each group member is required to benefit from taking part. You will need basic IT skills, such as being able to use websites, email and submit work. Full access to Office 365 will be provided to all students.
Each term, students come together at a venue in their region for an introductory half day Saturday seminar which will examine the subject of the term’s study. Students will then meet in local small groups with a facilitator for eight sessions. These are resourced by a handbook and by further reading and other resources provided through our e-learning platform. Moodle. The handbook contains everything needed for the group sessions.
A second seminar, midway through each term, looks at practical aspects of the topic and the connection between it and church and daily life and gives help with assignments. There will be a written assignment each term (around 4000-5000 words in total). The course is delivered in English, although learners can request a Welsh speaking personal tutor and are able to submit assignments in Welsh.
Course Content
The course is divided into 3 levels, each level takes 2 years to complete. Year A modules will be delivered in 2020/21 and Year B modules in 2021/22.
The course can only be studied full-time by those sponsored by their Bishop to undergo full-time training for licensed ministry.
The Modules for 2020/21 are:
| Level 4 Year A | Level 4 Year B | Level 5 Year A | Level 5 Year B | Level 6 Degree Level Year A | Level 6 Degree Level Year B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Introducing Christian Doctrine | Introducing Anglican Worship | Exploring Biblical Interpretation | Exploring a Canonical Reading of Scripture | Engaging Christian Leadership and the Bible | Engaging Christology from the New Testament to the Creeds |
| Introducing the Old Testament | Introducing the New Testament | Exploring Christian Ethical thinking today | Exploring Christian Doctrine | Engaging Pastoral Practice and Psychology | Engaging Theology and Contemporary Culture |
| Introducing Christian Mission | Introducing Practical Theology | Exploring Christianity in Wales: Past, Present, and Future | Exploring Missional Church | Engaging Sacramental Theology and Mission | Engaging Apologetics and Science |
*pending validation
Students who successfully complete level 4 will be awarded a Certificate in Theology and Discipleship from University of Wales, Trinity St David. Completion of level 5 will result in the award of a Diploma and completion of level 6 in a BTh degree.
Please talk to us at an early stage if you have previously undertaken academic study in Theology as you may be able to join at Diploma level.
Fees for the course are £120.00 for the 2020/2021 academic year. Course fees are invoiced by the Representative Body and you can set up a payment plan to spread the cost.
Course Induction
St Padarn’s offers prospective students the chance to participate in an Induction course free of charge. The course is designed to introduce you to some key themes, ideas, and approaches to learning in an informal and supportive environment.
We will be holding introductory sessions on Sunday 7 March 10.00 am -12.30 pm at the following locations:
Bangor and St Asaph Dioceses
All Saints Church, Southsea, Wrexham LL115PG
Llandaf and Monmouth Dioceses
St Teilo’s School, Circle Way East, Cardiff CF23 9PD
Swansea and Brecon and St Davids Dioceses
University of Wales Trinity Saint David, College Road, Carmarthen. SA31 3EP
There is no need to book a place - We look forward to welcoming you