Prospective students who have earned credits in theological studies at university level may, in certain cases, transfer those credits to King's Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.) and Master of Arts (M.A.) programmes. If granted, exemptions reduce the overall time, number of modules and tuition fees required to complete either the B.Th. or M.A. programme.

Exemptions based on previous studies elsewhere is known as Accreditation of Prior Credited/Certified Learning (APCL). In special circumstances it is also possible to secure some exemptions based on previous ministry experience. This is known as Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).


Accreditation of Prior Credited/Certified Learning

APCL is only granted for previous theological studies, or theologically-related studies at Higher Education level. So you may not apply for exemptions based on previous studies in, say, mathematics, science or nursing. Studies in subjects other than theology but which contain a theological or religious element will be considered (e.g. a history module covering some aspect of Church history). Previous studies must be pitched at Higher Education level, so A-levels, High School diplomas, or training or vocational qualification pitched below Higher Education Certificate level do not count for APCL purposes.

Generally, when considering a request for APCL we make our recommendation to the university on the basis of like-for-like studies. For example, previous church history studies would secure exemptions against similar modules we offer. However, this does not apply for those who have completed a full Certificate or Diploma in Theology, who are permitted to seek direct entry to the next level regardless of the theological subjects studied previously.

Exemptions may be granted against modules, and in special cases, entire levels (thus permitting direct entry to, say, the Diploma stage of the degree). Direct entry to the final stage of the B.Th. degree is possible only in circumstances where an applicant has completed sufficient accredited studies elsewhere. Successful applications for APCL towards the M.A. (Theology) degree earn exemptions from modules with similar content.

APCL applications are made on the basis of previous formally accredited studies. Thus while studies at unaccredited institutions may be accepted as evidence of satisfying entrance requirements on to a course at King's, unaccredited studies cannot be used to seek APCL exemption.

We cannot accept credits from previously-completed awards (eg a Master's degree in Theology, or another Bachelor degree in religious studies) against the B.Th. or M.A. programmes, as this would entail credits being used twice. Therefore, applicants may apply for exemptions based on credits (or credit hours) earned from incomplete programmes. Where an applicant has completed an early exit award (eg Certificate, Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate etc) for the purposes of APCL these count as incomplete programmes and can be claimed against a full award.

At undergraduate level, the maximum APCL (or combined APCL-APEL) is 240 credits (i.e. direct entry to the last stage of the B.Th. degree. For the M.A. (Theology) the maximum amount of APL which can be granted is 120 credits (i.e. two-thirds of the degree, that is, the full taught element excluding the dissertation).

APCL Currency Assessment

The University requires that the currency for APCL applications of accredited or certified learning achieved more than five years ago must be assessed. This means that where applicants completed certified work more than five years ago, evidence must be produced to demonstrate that the student has kept up-to-date with current developments in their field since completing thir studies. Therefore, for any APCL application involving studies completed more than five years ago applicants must supply a statement demonstrating how they remain current with developments in the field. The statement should consist of no more than 1-2 sides of paper listing evidence to prove a continued interest in and interaction with the field since completing studies more than five years ago. Examples of evidence to list include the following:

• Books and academic publications read since
• Conferences, seminars, workshops, presentations, lectures attended
• Any additional studies, courses, programmes attended (whether accredited or unaccredited)
• Additional training
• Ministry
• Any other evidence demonstrating you remain current with developments in Theology

Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning

APEL applications are based on work experience specifically in the field of religious work such as church ministry, theology, biblical studies and so on. Non-theological work experience cannot be used to apply for APEL.

Previous work experience must be at a level which properly earns exemptions from studies at Higher Education level. This might include pastoral ministry, lecturing and so on. Administrative roles, Sunday School teaching of children, and other work/positions which do not involve critical theological reflection will not normally secure APEL. As such, APEL exemptions towards the B.Th. tend to be modest, typically 10-20 credits at Certificate level unless the applicant can demonstrate substantial critical theological reflection.

At undergraduate level (i.e. the B.Th.) a student may make an application for both APL and APEL at the same time. Both forms need to be completed and returned to the college office. It is not possible to apply for APEL towards the M.A. (Theology).

Please note that onced enrolled on the B.Th. programme any applications for APCL/APEL must be made within a month of enrollment. It is not possible to apply for exemptions once your studies are well underway.


How to Apply for Exemptions

To make an application for APCL/APEL please download and complete the form below, returning it by post (not email) to the school office. Be sure to include all the relevant sections and include copies of the relevant documents as requested. This form is to be used for both B.Th. and M.A. (Theology) applications for exemptions. The fee for assessing credit exemptions is based on the application you submit (for example, whether just APCL, APEL, or APCL/APEL combined). Details of fees are indicated on the form.

King's APCL application form (to be completed by all applicants)

Please note that although King's will prepare a recommendation to the university based on the documentation supplied, the final decision concerning the award of APCL or APEL lies with the University of Chester.