Master of Arts (Theology)

validated by the University of Chester

The M.A. Theology is a taught postgraduate degree (in the US, a graduate degree) allowing students to select areas of particular interest in theology, with a special focus on developing understanding of major aspects of Evangelical theology, together with advanced Biblical Studies for those interested in this field. Typical of British postgraduate degrees in Theology, there is a strong emphasis on research, together with a substantial thesis element enabling students to undertake an extended area of research and writing in the subject of their own choosing. As such, this programme is equivalent to a US graduate programme in Theology (i.e the M.A. in Theological Studies or Th.M. degrees). For further guidance see the Notes for North American Students). The award is validated by the University of Chester and may be completed either one year full-time or up to three years part-time. Prospective students may commence the MA any time of the year. 

The programme is available online through King's innovative e-learning platform. Our open learning courseware offers the delivery of a high quality and rewarding distance-learning experience. Each module can be accessed remotely online and consists of audio 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 MA is a University of Chester award and successful graduates are eligible to attend the university's graduation ceremony held each year at Chester Cathedral.
 

AIMS OF THE MASTER'S DEGREE IN THEOLOGY 

The general aim of the programme is to provide Christians with a thorough, detailed and scholarly examination of Evangelical theology, with a special emphasis on current trends and developments within the movement. There is also strong Bible Studies representation for those interested. This programme will be of interest to Evangelicals keen to engage fully with the history, thought, and effects of the this pan-denominational movement, allowing them both to appreciate more fully and critically engage with the various expressions and components of their tradition. Another important aim of the programme is to equip Evangelicals to be more effective in their current ministry and engagement with society. In order to help them develop the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding to do so, the M.A. (Theology) also focuses on hermeneutics, valuable lessons that can be learned from Evangelicalism's past, and also the necessary evaluative skills to engage with and critique modern society and the challenges it offers. At a more general level, the course will provide students with the advanced study and research skills normally gained at this level, which will further enhance the effectiveness of their ministry. This programme is also relevant to observers and commentators of Evangelicalism and related studies who may not actually be a part of the movement. 

The M.A. (Theology) is designed to appeal to a wide range of students, including those holding undergraduate qualifications in Religion, Divinity or Theology as well as clergy and other professionals seeking to extend their theological study. This programme also provides a suitable qualification for those interested in pursuing research at doctoral level.

 
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

The MA in Theology consists of 180 credits, with an early exit award at 120 credits, as follows:

Postgraduate Diploma = 120 credits
Master of Arts (Theology) = 180 credits

All modules consist of 20 credits, while the final dissertation required to earn the full MA degree is valued at 60 credits. View our complete M.A. (Theology) specification.

All students are required to complete the following two modules:

TH7601 Study and Research Methods (20 credits)
TH7602 History, Thought and Expressions of Global Evangelicalism (20 credits)

The remaining four modules are chosen from the following list:

TH7603 Case Study: Evangelicalism in Latin America (20 credits)
TH7604 Case Study: Evangelicalism in Africa (20 credits)
TH7605 Case Study: Evangelicalism in Asia (20 credits)
TH7606 Case Study: Evangelicalism in Western Europe and North America (20 credits)
TH7607 Biblical Theology (20 credits)
TH7608 Evangelical Approaches to Biblical Hermeneutics (20 credits)
TH7609 Theological Studies in the Book of Romans
TH7610 Interpreting the Book of Revelation (available from Sep 2012)

The final stage of the MA programme is the dissertation, an extended piece of writing on the subject of the student's own choice:

TH7615 Dissertation of 15,000 words (60 credits).



RESOURCES AND DELIVERY

The entire Master's programme is available by distance learning, thereby enabling students to study for this degree without the need for residential requirements. The flexible nature of this course enables international students to study for a British degree from overseas. In addition, there is flexibility in start/end times and students may study either part-time as well as full-time. The course will be of particular interest to those who need to work and study simultaneously. Although there are no residential requirements, King's Evangelical Divinity School provides regular student seminars, where interaction with lecturers and other course members allows important community involvement.

All of the teaching is provided through our innovative online eCampus (Virtual Learning Environment, VLE) that provides Internet-based delivery of audio lectures, course notes, written materials, as well as allowing interaction with staff and other students. Course lecturers and tutors are available by contact via e-mail or through the online Student Forum.

The eCampus also provides a range of library materials and eJournals to support learning and research. This access to subscription theological journals are provided free to all registered students and is especially useful for distance learning students without ready access to a library. Also, as an official partner of the University of Chester all King's students are entitled to access of the University library. This in turn enables students resident in the United Kingdom to apply for access to nearly all other British university libraries through the academic inter-library SCONUL scheme.


ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

Ordinarily, a good degree in either Theology, Religious Studies, Divinity  (e.g. BTh, BA, BD, BMin) or a degree in a related area of Theology and Religion is expected. In special circumstances we may also accept motivated students with undergraduate degrees in other disciplines (BSc, BA). Each case is assessed on an individual basis, and applicants are encouraged to contact the Academic Dean for questions relating to entry requirements.


FEES (2011-12 academic year) 

For a fully accredited higher degree course, this M.A. (Theology) programme offers very good value compared with similar courses elsewhere, particularly taught courses which usually also attract high accommodation and living costs. The fee indicated below represents the total cost of the full M.A. (Theology) programme based on the current 2011-12 academic year fees. Part-time students fees are pro-rata. For comparison purposes with other colleges be sure to add up the tuition and any other additional fees they may charge to compare with the figure below.

Total fees in British Pounds (GBP) for the Master of Arts degree based on the 2011-12 academic year are as follows:

United Kingdom and European Union permanent residents (Home Fees): 
3,510 GBP (390 GBP per 20-credit module. The M.A. consists of 180 credits.)

International students: 
3,960 GBP (440 GBP per 20-credit module. The M.A. consists of 180 credits.)


Notes

1. Fees indicated are fully inclusive. The above fee is the amount you pay (excluding books or travel costs). The cost is the total, complete fee for the full MA degree based on the current 2011-12 rates, and is spread over however long you take to complete the degree. Other than a 10 GBP one-off application fee that becomes payable at the time of your application there are no supplementary fees,. When comparing costs with other institutions make sure you have included all their supplementary fees.

2. The first module fee becomes payable when you commence your studies. Thereafter you only pay for the module(s) you are working on (remaining modules are paid in two installments).

3. Please note that once paid, all module fees are non-refundable. Therefore, you should only purchase modules as you need them.

4. Module fees are subject to an increase each year in line with University requirements and/or inflation. The fee indicated above is for the 2011-12 academic year. Any increase in 2012-13 will be reflected in the new rates which take effect from 1 September 2012.

5. To be classed as a UK/EU student you must have been permanently resident in the UK/EU for three years or more prior to the commencement of the course and without being in education. However, there are exceptions to this rule. For further information visit: www.ukcosa.org.uk. You may be required to supply documentary proof to qualify for the lower Home fee.

6. UK students may be eligible for government funding to cover some of the costs. View our financial assistance page for further information.

7. Part-time and full-time students pay the same overall fee for the M.A. programme, the difference being that part-time students are able to spread the cost of their studies over a longer period. The M.A. degree must be completed within a maximum of three years of registration.


FURTHER INFORMATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Notes for North American Applicants
Frequently-asked questions
Application Procedure and Admission Forms