Studying for a qualification
Choose how long you want to study for, and therefore what level of qualification you will gain at the end of your study time. There are three validated undergraduate qualifications to choose from: Cert HE in Theological Studies, DipHE and BA Hons Degree. We also offer a postgraduate Masters programme by distance learning, MA in Aspects of Biblical Interpretation.
Whatever level you choose, you’ll have a solid preparation for ministry in any of its classic forms - such as ordination, mission, Bible translation or para-church work - or for remaining within a secular setting. It is also suitable as the basis for progression to postgraduate study, including a PGCE for teaching RE. It has the flexibility that will allow you to focus the study onto areas of particular interest and relevance to you. Furthermore, our Open Learning materials are written in the knowledge that as a distance learner you remain embedded in the outside world, and so have a distinct perspective on issues and questions. So with an emphasis on the core subjects of Bible, doctrine, and practical application you can be confident that your course will be ideal for whatever training and ministry you have in mind in order to respond to God's call on your life.
A third of your study at all levels will be biblically orientated modules. In addition to this, there will be modules exploring how we interpret the Bible itself. For example, as well studying John's Gospel, you’ll also look at what is involved in studying a Gospel: does it need a special approach, or can we think about in exactly the same way we do any other piece of writing? Even in modules that aren't so obviously biblical - such as Christian Life and Work or Evangelism - you can be assured that the Bible features constantly at the core of everything we do.
We also place an emphasis on practical application and experience. Specific modules in applied theology feature significantly at every level, ensuring that you relate theology to the contemporary world and its issues. We'll also ensure that you are involved and trained in various practical ministries. Choose to preach, lead housegroups or Sunday School. Or step out into what may be new area for you, such as prison work, industrial chaplaincy, or evangelism amongst foreign language students. We'll help you set up formal placement, with evaluation and reflection on your progress. (We appreciate that this might not be possible in a few students' situations; we have alternatives available where needed, especially for students who live outside Great Britain, or who are housebound.)
The final third of your study will be in modules on doctrine, church history and religions. Interaction with other religions will feature significantly in your studies. An awareness of church history, and the way doctrine has been shaped over the centuries, illuminates the current situation and enables us to interact with contemporary issues.
For those keen to learn the biblical languages, you can start to learn Greek in level 1, whilst Hebrew is available from level 2 onwards.
What qualification should I aim for?
You may have a very clear idea of which qualification you want to obtain, but you do not have to make a final decision until later in the process. Your first target is to complete level 1. In order to complete level 1 you will take about eight different modules, and do some practical training. You will then have the option of leaving the programme with a CertHE qualification, or to continue.
If you choose to continue, you repeat the process of studying another eight modules and practical training. This then gives you another opt-out point, where you would leave with a DipHE qualification.
Finally, if you choose to continue studying, you’ll do the third and final level of study, and leave with a BA Honours Degree in Theology.
Can I change my mind later, and come back to do the next level?
Yes. If, for example, you leave with a CertHE, you can come back in at a later date to carry on to the next level. Whatever unforeseen circumstances might occur, you will be able to take stock of the progress you've made to that point and either 'cash in' the work to gain a qualification, or take a formal leave of absence and return to study at a later date. The study you do will never be wasted.
How long will it take?
You will need to have about 10 hours a week available for an average of 40 weeks in the year; this will give you the right study rate of 400 hours a year. That target allows plenty of time for time off for holidays, Easter and Christmas, and even a week or two off for in case you get ill! 10 hours a week is the equivalent of about two evenings a week and a Saturday morning, for example, for your study.
Other people, however, take a week off work and get 30, 40 or even 50 hours study done in that one week. Other people negotiate a day off a week from their job.
- CertHE 3 years
- DipHE 6 years
- BA Hons 9 years
(on the basis of studying 400 hours a year)
Distance learning will involve some sort of sacrifice to meet the study time. We encourage you to think this over thoroughly before starting. But we also encourage you to be brave and give it a try. The best way of finding out if you can manage it is to actually attempt it.
Are there any entry requirements?
You must demonstrate the ability to undertake an undergraduate course of this nature successfully. This will normally mean 2 A-levels plus GCSE passes at grade C or above for British students, or equivalent alternatives from elsewhere. Mature students (aged 23 and over) without these qualifications will be considered individually. In almost all cases, we will be able to admit you to the course informally at first, and then officially register you once you have demonstrated ability to complete at least 30 credits of work in an appropriate time scale.
We also recognise a variety of training courses, such as those provided by Oasis, Pioneer and NFI, as having access status. We will be able to consider how any such study might meet a portion of a level or even an entire level and allow you credit from some modules. Contact us directly to discuss your training and experience.
Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate ability in English.
What if I’ve already done some theological training?
If you have already done some study of theology, or a similar subject, in a different institution in Great Britain or overseas you may want to apply for ‘advanced standing’. This will allow you some exemption from the full 120 credits of a level. We will only make final decisions based on paper work supplied from the institution you previously studied with, but we can give you an informal guide prior to that.
Please note: you cannot leave with an exit award for a level for which you obtained part advance standing. For example, if you are exempt from part of the Certificate level, say 40 credits, you could not be awarded a CertHE; you will have to continue to the DipHE before you can take an award. If you are exempted the entire CertHE level then the first award you could take would also be the DipHE.
To apply for advance standing, please contact us for formal details and a specific application form. There is a separate fee for this.
Who validates my qualification?
All qualifications are validated by the University of Middlesex.
Will I need extra books?
We want to encourage you to budget between 30 and 50% extra at Certificate level, and at least 50% at Diploma level, per module for buying books. This is not compulsory, but strongly advisable. However, it is vital that you consider how to obtain the textbooks you will need. Getting hold of the relevant books can be a particular challenge for distance learning students. The LST Bookshop offers discount packs of books targeting each module. To read more about London School of Theology’s Bookshop and any offers available. Click here.
If you'd like to find out more, email doreen.rosser@lst.ac.uk.
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All programmes validated by Middlesex University in London