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The MA in Applied Theology (and the parallel Postgraduate Diploma or Certificate in Theology) is a taught programme with three study pathways.
With a remarkable diversity of expertise within the college faculty and the valuable partnership we have with Birmingham Newman University, postgraduate studies at Birmingham Christian College (BCC) are praxis-oriented and academically stimulating. BCC is an approved partner of Birmingham Newman University, delivering programmes approved by and leading to an award of the Birmingham Newman University degrees.
BCC’s partnership with Birmingham Newman University brings an additional stature to the awards we offer, as postgraduate students are encouraged to make use of the breadth of joint expertise BCC faculty and this reputable university offers. The Christian ethos of Birmingham Newman University is an added attraction for Christian ministers and leaders who seek postgraduate study from Christian educators, and thinkers from around the world.
The MA in Applied Theology (and the parallel Postgraduate Diploma or Certificate in Theology) is a taught programme with three study pathways. These equip students for missions, pastoral ministry, and strategic leadership, and act as an exceptional platform for further research in any of the pathways and may provide for continuing professional development.
Students on any BCC postgraduate taught programme take classes for each module consisting of around 300 dedicated study hours – a blend of lectures, seminars, preparatory reading, study, researching and writing of course work.
The full MA programme comprises of six taught course modules and a short research dissertation. The Postgraduate Diploma programme consists of six taught course modules without a dissertation. The Postgraduate Certificate programme consists of three taught course modules.
Blended (i.e online and face-to-face intensive sessions)
Information about the prospectus can be found here
Students may study Full-Time for 1 year, or Part-Time for 2-4 years.
Modules at BCC are generally delivered as blended and follow one of two schedule structures, either as weekly classes throughout term time or over block period, usually week-long, known as ‘residential’ study sessions.
The schedule for the classes is published several weeks before the term commences, so students would know and do the core reading on the module ahead of time. There are two intakes yearly in January and September.
The residential sessions are held over six days of full-time in-class study usually from Monday to Saturday. The class schedule will be published several months before class begins, to allow students to complete both the core and the weekly readings before classes begin. Residential sessions are usually scheduled in October and February.
For the residential sessions, students would travel to the beautiful leafy Selly Oak campus in Birmingham to be residents on campus over the period of these sessions, and BCC offers accommodation students may rent.
To ensure students have a good learning experience, we limit class numbers, so it is always recommended to pick your modules early, however, note that all optional modules on the programme are subject to student numbers or intake. Whilst BCC will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes arise due to student numbers, student choices and staff availability. Students should be aware that not all optional modules will be offered every semester, due to staffing, timetabling, and/or insufficient student numbers. Where an optional module does not run or there are insufficient numbers for the module to run, BCC will endeavour to inform students promptly.
Following successful completion of any of the pathways of the programme, graduates should be able to analytically address a range of current questions in their chosen fields. They should be able to apply an advanced, systematic, and critical understanding of issues, and interpret a range of sources using a variety of tools, and methodological approaches. Students will know and understand how specific laws and acts that govern Christian ministry activities can be leveraged for growth and effectiveness. Graduates should be able to apply strategic leadership principles in leading intergenerational and multicultural churches and Christian organisations.
All students must provide evidence of appropriate competency in written and spoken English. For students whose first language is not English, and who have not studied in English up to at least Level 3, the normal requirement will be IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 575 or equivalent.
Those applicants with overseas qualifications in place of the standard academic entrance requirements will be assessed using UK NARIC and UCAS Guides to International Qualifications. Such qualifications would need to be of a standard equivalent to a second-class honours degree or above in order to ensure parity. Overseas students might also be admitted on the basis of professional experience.
Find out our course fees here.
Our MA course has been approved for Postgraduate Masters Loans. To find out if you’re eligible please read the Master’s Loan guidance on the GOV.UK website here https://www.gov.uk/masters-loan.
Students with disabilities and/or learning difficulties may be eligible for funding to cover study-related costs they have because of a mental health problem, long-term illness or any other physical or learning disability. You can find out more information here.
We encourage you to make your application as early as possible to ensure funding is in place for the start of the academic year when your first semester’s fees will be payable.
Find out how to begin the application process and access the online application form here.
Evidence of candidates’ academic ability to work in the area of theological and ecclesiological praxis at an appropriate level and their potential to complete the programme may be provided in one of the following ways:
A second-class (or above) degree in Biblical Studies, Religious Studies, Theology or a cognate subject. A second class (or above) degree in another subject area, together with certificated learning (e.g. a Graduate Diploma) in Biblical Studies, Religious Studies, Theology or a cognate subject.
At least two years’ professional experience in a senior position in a Church or Mission context. In such cases, where candidates do not have formal academic qualifications, an access module or written assignment may be used to help assess suitability for the programme. A transparent policy will be followed to ensure equity and parity with regard to student admissions.
Accredited RPL/RPeL and in some cases where the RPL/RPeL is certificated will be considered for students wishing to transfer into the scheme with previously obtained part or intermediate qualifications from other UK HE institutions or their equivalent. This will follow the rules and processes for RPL/RPeL set out by Birmingham Newman University, which allows for 90 credits of RPL for Master’s degrees.
We are located in a serene and peaceful part of Selly Oak, Birmingham. The tranquil atmosphere of the college makes studies more enjoyable. Students enjoy walks in our beautiful green space and landscape during their time here.
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