Bachelor of Theology (Honours)

validated by the University of Chester

For those seeking a detailed knowledge and understanding of the Bible and its interpretation, the opportunity to develop strong analytical and evaluative skills in Theology, flexible learning with a focus on research and writing, the chance to explore a range of theological issues within an Evangelical environment, and formal certification with a British university, King's Evangelical Divinity School is pleased to offer the Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.) Honours degree, validated by the University of Chester.

Whatever your reason for wanting to study the Bible and Theology, whether to enhance existing Christian ministry, to equip for future full or part-time ministry, to permit you to become a more active and effective Christian in your local church, or simply because you desire a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Bible and Theology, this programme provides the knowledge, understanding, skills and tools you require. 

The entire B.Th. programme is available online through King's innovative e-learning platform. Our open learning courseware ensure the delivery of a high quality and rewarding distance-learning experience. Each module can be accessed remotely online and consists of MP3 recorded lectures and study notes, while our eCampus provides students with an interactive, resource-laden and exciting learning experience. Students have regular and free access to tutors by telephone and e-mail, support via the eCampus, and access to fellow students through the online forum. Our aim is to ensure your online learning experience is as productive, interactive and enjoyable as possible.

The Graduate Diploma is a University of Chester award and graduates are eligible to attend the university's graduation ceremony held each year at Chester Cathedral.

                                                Chester's High Street


PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

The B.Th. programme consists of three levels, or stages. Level 4 (the Certificate stage of the B.Th. degree) consists of a range of shorter modules, while Levels 5 and 6 are composed of longer modules with a stronger emphasis on wider reading, research and extended writing. There are no examinations. Levels 4 and 5 focus strongly on Biblical Hermeneutics, while the final stage of the degree explores a range of theological areas and issues. The Certificate (CertHE) and Diploma (DipHE) stages of the degree are early exit awards for those who do not complete the full B.Th. programme.

View our complete BTh specification.

Level 4:  Certificate in Higher Education in Biblical Hermeneutics (CertHE)

The Certificate consists of eight core modules and two elective doubles modules (total 120 credits).

Core Modules

TH4601 Introduction to the Bible (10 credits)
TH4602 Old Testament Survey (10 credits)
TH4603 New Testament-Survey (10 credits)
TH4604 The Synoptic Gospels (10 credits)
TH4605 Biblical Exegesis: Theory and Methodology (10 credits)
TH4606 Exegesis in Practice (10 credits)
TH4607 History of Hermeneutics (10 credits)
TH4608 Hermeneutics and Theology (10 credits)

Electives (students choose any two from the following list of double modules)

TH4609 Exegesis and Bible Polemics (20 credits)
TH4610 Exegesis and the Preacher (20 credits)
TH4611 Introduction to New Testament Greek 1 (20 credits)
TH4612 Introduction to New Testament Greek 2 (20 credits)
TH4613 Introduction to Biblical Hebrew 1 (20 credits)
TH4615 Lands of the Bible (study trip to Israel) (20 credits)
TH4616 Theology of Worship (20 credits)

Level 5:  Diploma in Higher Education in Biblical Hermeneutics (DipHE) 

The Diploma stage consists of six 20-credit modules (total 120 credits).

Initial Modules (students complete any two, or more if they wish, of the following modules)

TH5601Book of Deuteronomy (20 credits)
TH5602 Interpreting 1 and 2 Samuel (20 credits)
TH5603 Letter to the Hebrews (20 credits)
TH5604 Applying 1 Corinthians in Church Ministry Today (20 credits)

Core module (required for all students)

TH5620 Experiential learning (20 credits)

Electives (students select further modules from the following list to reach a total of 120 credits)

TH5605 The Church and Israel (20 credits)
TH5606 Case Studies in Hermeneutics (20 credits)
TH5611 Introduction to New Testament Greek 1 (20 credits)
TH5612 Introduction to New Testament Greek 2 (20 credits)
TH5613 Introduction to Biblical Hebrew 1 (20 credits)
TH5615 Lands of the Bible (study trip to Israel) (20 credits). 

Level 6:  Bachelor of Theology (Hons) (B.Th.)

At level 6, students complete three core modules and two electives to attain 120 credits for the Bachelor of Theology (BTh)

Core Modules (required)

TH6601 Biblical Theology (20 credits).
TH6602 The Bible, Culture and Historical Theology (20 credits)
TH6620 Dissertation (40 credits)

Electives (students select any two)

TH6603 Theology of Romans (20 credits)
TH6604 Liberation Theologies and their Use of the Bible (20 credits)
TH6605 Christian Ethics and the Bible (20 credits)
TH6606 Evangelicals, the Bible and the Public Square (20 credits)

WHY THIS PARTICULAR COURSE?

First, the emphasis and content of this course is quite unique. It focuses on exegesis and hermeneutics (Biblical interpretation and application) and related subjects in Christian Theology, all delivered within an Evangelical environment. The aim is to equip you to study the Bible for yourself, so that you are in a position to determine what it says and means.

Second, this is a very flexible course. In today's busy age, time is a precious commodity. Moreover, church, ministry, family and work commitments demand flexibility. This distance education course has been designed with this in mind. For example, while the B.Th. is offered by distance learning there are opportunities to attend some lectures and seminars if you wish. You may accelerate or slow down your studies from term to term, or even take a break if required. Meanwhile, the flexibility of the B.Th. programme allows students to enrol any time, so there is no need to wait for the beginning of a new academic year to commence your studies

Also, this is a programme you may complete from home. It may be unrealistic to leave home and attend a full-time residential Bible college for several years. In fact, this is usually impossible for those already in ministry or who have a family. Yet the B.Th. offers the opportunity to study from home, saving on the additional housing and maintenance costs typically associated with attending a taught programme.

For those who have already completed some theological studies elsewhere advanced standard (credit exemptions) may be available. See the Accreditation of Prior Learning page for further information.

Finally, our experience in offering distance-learning programmes, together with the high quality of our courseware packs and student support will help to ensure this is a valuable learning experience. 

TUITION FEES FOR 2012-13

For full details of our fees, notes and payment plans download our undergraduate fee sheet:

UNDERGRADUATE FEE SHEET (2012-13)

King's B.Th. programme offers excellent value compared with other UK taught courses, where a typical degree studied full-time (part-time pro rata) costs anywhere between 5,000 and 9,000 GBP per year, equivalent to 15,000 - 27,000 GBP for the full degree. Taught degrees also attract additional accommodation and maintenance costs, pushing up the final cost of the degree yet further. 

For comparison purposes with other universities and colleges be sure to add up the various tuition and additional fees they charge over life of the Theology course before comparing the final figure with our fees on the above fee sheet, which represents the total cost of the degree (not the fee per year). 

UK students may be eligible for government funding to cover some of the costs. King's is a registered provider with the Student Loan Company. View our financial assistance page for further information.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Guidance Notes for North American Applicants
Frequently-asked questions
What our students say about studying with KEDS
Is Bible College for you? The practical benefits of a theological education 
Academic versus Dogmatic Theology:  Make The Right Choice
Application Procedure and Admission Forms