Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry

Transcription

1 DISTANCE LEARNING Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry CREATIVE CHRISTIAN LEARNING Prospectus

2 Welcome to St John s distance learning community. We offer a range of programmes of study which make theology accessible to all. As one of the more established providers of theological study by distance learning, we seek to build on our experience. We aim to help people today to engage in an academically rigorous programme of theological study which is designed to nurture them in faith and ministry. We are rooted in a vibrant christian community which seeks to hear the Bible afresh in contemporary society. We hope that those who study with us will see the world differently, act with greater compassion and find their loving commitment to God strengthened. We trust that this prospectus provides you with all the information you need to work out whether we are right for you. If you do need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Revd Dr Andy Angel Director of Extension Studies

3 Contents 03 Introduction 03 Mode of Study 05 Programme of Study 11 Assessment 12 Awards 13 Applications St John s is a livey, intelligent community where the message of the gospel is translated into real lives, real mission, real challenges to today s culture. The place to go if you want to be part of the fresh and unpredictable movements of God s Spirit. Rt Revd Tom Wright Former Bishop of Durham. Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity, University of St Andrews

4 Introduction The Foundation Degree in Theology for in Ministry is designed to provide a distance learning programme of study for people who wish to explore practical Christian ministry within the framework of the rigorous and accessible study of theology. The programme introduces key areas of Christian doctrine and ministry and therefore may be particularly helpful to students who are exploring vocation towards Christian ministry, both lay and ordained, or who are already engaged in such ministry. The Foundation Degree in Theology for in Ministry is validated by the University of Chester through its partnership with St John s College, Nottingham. Students who successfully complete the first stage of this programme but do not wish to complete the second stage, exit with the award of a Certificate of Higher Education. Students who complete both stages of this award exit with the Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry. Mode of Study The programme is delivered by distance learning. On starting a module, students will receive a pack which includes study materials which may be supported by DVDs and website links. Students will also be put in contact with a distance learning tutor. Students are supported by this tutor as they work through the material in their pack and as they prepare assignments. Some students enjoy the opportunity to study short courses on campus or mix their study with modules taken over a term on campus. Please see our website or contact us for further details. Most communication with St John s College and the University of Chester will be by or by finding information on the University of Chester website. Assignments are written and submitted electronically and marks posted on the university intranet. Therefore students must be computer literate and have access to computer facilities. 03

5 I am excited about our community of students all over the world who are using our expertise in education to nurture their growth in ministry in the service of God and his gospel. David Hilborn Principal of St John s College, Nottingham

6 Programme of Study The programme is taken in two stages: stage one at Higher Education level four and stage two at Higher Education level five. When studying part time, each stage is normally taken over two years and so the whole programme is typically completed within four years. In exceptional cases students may be permitted to take five years to complete the programme. However, we encourage students to commit to a two year programme for each stage of the Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry at the outset of study. Should you wish to complete on a full time basis studying one year per stage, please contact us. The programme comprises core and elective modules as detailed on the following pages. Certain of the modules have residential events as component parts of the learning:- At the start of each academic year there is an optional Study Skills weekend residential event. Students choosing the level four elective module Vocation TH4726 may find attendance at the weekend Vocation residential event (Fit for the Purpose) beneficial for their personal reflection on Vocation. The level five core module Human Care TH5722 normally entails attendance at a five-day residential event on Listening Skills. The level five elective module Leadership and Teamwork TH5730 normally entails attendance at a Myers Briggs Type Indicator workshop (15 hours face to face learning). Please contact the conference manager to book yourself into the relevant residential events: conferences@stjohnsnottm.ac.uk Tel: The cost of attendance at the Listening Skills residential for the core module Human Care TH5722 is included in your fee. There is an extra cost for attendance at the residential events which are not compulsory. Please see our website for details of dates and cost of our residential events: The programme of the Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry comprises core and elective modules at both stage one and stage two. 05

7 Stage One (Level 4) Students must gain 120 credits at level four to complete stage one. Students are required to take the core modules: New Testament Introduction (TH4720); Old Testament Introduction (TH4721); The Early Church and the Creeds (TH4722); and Theological Reflection (TH4723). Completion of these four modules gives students 70 credits. You must then choose a further 50 credits worth of elective modules to gain the 120 credits required to complete this stage of the award. Core Modules New Testament Introduction TH4720 (20 Credits: Level 4) The module is an overview of the New Testament. It examines the world from which the New Testament books emerged and studies in depth the life and message of Jesus. After a thorough treatment of the four gospels it goes on to explore the birth and development of the church in the first century. As well as the book of the Acts this includes an introduction to Paul s theology and a detailed look at two of his letters, 1 Corinthians and Philippians. Old Testament Intorduction TH4721 (20 Credits: Level 4) The module consists of an overview of the Old Testament. It introduces students to the story of Israel as it is told in the Hebrew Scriptures. They are invited to explore the development of Israel s law and the covenant and are introduced briefly to the prophetic books of the Old Testament. As part of an exploration of Israel s response to God, the module focuses on the particular topics of creation and sexuality; wisdom and worship. The Early Church and the Creeds TH4722 (20 Credits: Level 4) The module introduces students to the early Christian community, including the issues that led to its formulation of creedal statements as part of its sense of identity. It outlines the theological issues facing the Church, with special attention to the accommodation of the early Christian message to other philosophies of the day. It describes the process of creedal affirmation in establishing both perceived truth and a sense of identity, especially in the context of persecution. There is a detailed examination of the Apostles and Nicene Creeds. Theological Reflection TH4723 (10 Credits: Level 4) The module introduces students to models of theological reflection. It outlines ways of using the Bible, using some examples of theological reflection in Scripture and history, and discussing reflection on the significance of the prayer Your kingdom come in a variety of situations. Case studies are drawn from contemporary church and society. A major part of the module is the students own reflection on some issues from their own experience and they are encouraged to meet with a local mentor for this process. 06

8 Elective Modules Anglicanism TH4724 (10 Credits: Level 4) The module explores the histories of Anglicanism, including its English roots and a selection of provincial illustrations. It outlines its doctrinal and liturgical basis and spiritualities, highlighting the threefold ministry. There is a discussion of ecumenical relations and significant issues facing the Anglican Communion today. Ecumenical Studies TH4725 (10 Credits: Level 4) The module explores the history of the ecumenical movement from a mission perspective, including details of the World Council of Churches and the Conference of European Churches. It outlines examples of some bilateral and multilateral conversations for unity: in Great Britain, in India, and between Great Britain and mainland Europe. Issues are explored that challenge the search for unity today, including episcopacy, women s priesthood and proselytism. Vocation TH4726 (10 Credits: Level 4) The module explores some biblical and theological resources for understanding vocation, including attitudes to vocation in church history, with special attention on Martin Luther. It encourages students to think about how they might discover their spiritual gifts, how to discern God s guidance and what is meant by personal fulfilment. The module includes a discussion about the nature of different Christian ministries, with particular emphasis on the Christian s calling in work and society. (Many students taking this module have found it beneficial to attend a vocations weekend [called Fit for the Purpose] alongside this module. However this is not compulsory. A further fee is payable for this event.) Introduction to Spirituality TH4727 (10 Credits: Level 4) The module introduces students to different approaches of Christian spirituality, including the roots of personal faith and the work of the Holy Spirit. A discussion of biblical spirituality explores spiritual foundations according to the Epistle to the Romans. Current movements and influences on our spirituality today are explored and students begin to think about the spiritual disciplines, the connection between their spirituality and lifestyle, and the purpose of intercession. Church and Ministry TH4728 (20 Credits: Level 4) The module explores the nature and patterns of ministry and mission in the New Testament. It examines patterns of Church life and growth today, and considers what has given rise to these. There is a strong emphasis on emerging church and students are encouraged to undertake projects where they discover different expressions of church for themselves. Several important areas of Christian ministry (pastoral care/ service in the community, evangelism, leading worship, and preaching/teaching) are examined in detail and students undertake a practical project on one of these. There is considerable emphasis on personal experience and attention is given to how the minister maintains their inner resources in addition to gaining skills and knowledge. Personal and Social Ethics TH4729 (20 Credits: Level 4) The module starts with an examination of the social context in which contemporary ethics is conducted. It covers different approaches to ethical decision-making including deontological and teleological models. It examines Old Testament and New Testament approaches to ethics and includes an appraisal of virtue ethics especially the work of Alasdair MacIntyre and Stanley Hauerwas. Students are encouraged to think about personal ethical dilemmas such as truth telling, confidentiality and the nature of compromise. They are introduced to some theological and ethical approaches to a range of contemporary social, economic and political issues, and encouraged to examine the outcomes of ethics for pastoral care. 07

9 Stage Two (Level 5) Students must gain 120 credits at level five to complete stage two. Students are required to take the core modules: Using the Bible Today (TH5720); Exploring the Matrix of Christian Theology (TH5721); Human Care (TH5722); and Journal and Reflection (TH5723). Completion of these four modules gives students 70 credits. You must then choose a further 50 credits worth of elective modules to gain the 120 credits required to complete this stage of the award. Core Modules Using the Bible Today TH5720 (20 Credits: Level 5) The module introduces students to the idea of what biblical authority means and goes on to a detailed study of key biblical texts. The following contexts are explored in detail: third world debt, consumerism, violence and peace, ecological crisis, freedom and charges of being androcentric. Exploring the Matrix of Christian Theology TH5721 (20 Credits: Level 5) The module outlines the key theological issues that have shaped Christian identity over the centuries. It examines our contemporary post-modern context and the diversity of theological responses to it and explores a number of controversial contemporary debates that have major implications on the mission of the church and pastoral ministry. Human Care TH5722 (20 Credits: Level 5) The module introduces the student to a theological, anthropological and sociological understanding of human personhood. It outlines different models of pastoral care and challenges the student to reflect on their own approach. It explores the gifts, skills and attitudes required of the Christian helper, including the need to pay attention to their own personal resources. The module includes an in-depth exploration of some important issues including: change; loss and bereavement; learning disabilities; sexuality; power and abuse. Practical training in listening skills is an integral part of the module. (Students taking this module normally demonstrate evidence of having undertaken a course in listening skills. St John s can provide this training for which no further fee is payable.) Journal and Reflection TH5723 (10 Credits: Level 5) The module introduces different approaches to theological reflection and encourages extensive practice of these. Students are introduced to the idea of PDP (Personal Development Portfolio) and are encouraged by their tutor to set goals at intervals throughout the module. They are also encouraged to keep a journal for the duration of the module and may choose to submit samples to their tutor or mentor from time to time. After discussion with the tutor, and arrangement with a local supervisor, students choose a context for a practical project and apply to this the theological tools gained throughout the module. On completion they reflect on this experience, not only in the light of the module content but on the whole experience of studying on this programme. 08

10 Elective Modules Amos and Micah TH5718 (20 Credits: Level 5) The module introduces students to life in the eighth century BC and includes a detailed examination of the text of the prophets Amos and Micah. Particular themes are explored in detail and connections made with other parts of the Old Testament. Students are encouraged to reflect on how Christian life today can be illuminated by their study of these texts. Romans TH5724 (20 Credits: Level 5) The module introduces students to life in the Graeco -Roman world and includes a detailed examination of the text of the epistle. Particular themes are explored in detail and connections made with other epistles of Paul. Students are encouraged to reflect on how Christian life today can be illuminated by their study of Romans. The Holy Spirit and the People of God TH5725 (20 Credits: Level 5) The module outlines the person and work of the Holy Spirit in the Old and New Testaments, including reference to the Trinity. It looks at the role of the Spirit in Christian tradition; explores twentieth century, including the Pentecostal/charismatic, movements; and discusses the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church today. It covers some contemporary trends in pneumatology and asks how the Holy Spirit is seen in evidence in the world. Students are encouraged to think about how the Holy Spirit can be seen in the life of the individual, and to articulate their personal experience. Worship. The Common Worship resources are dealt with in depth, including their use in different settings. The module includes a discussion of the principles of worship planning and leadership, and gives the opportunity for some practical projects. Christians in the Workplace TH5727 (20 Credits: Level 5) This module assumes that almost everyone has a workplace on which to reflect, whether they are based in a secular environment, the home, or a voluntary organization. It outlines a theological and practical understanding of the issues faced by all Christian workers, encouraging participants to fulfil their Christian vocation within their particular workplace and to help others to do the same. After a thorough exploration of biblical and historical theologies of work, the module goes on to consider spirituality: how we experience God at work; how faith affects our understanding of work; how work impacts on faith. This leads to a discussion of discipleship at work, in a general sense as well as raising specific issues relevant to workplace chaplaincy. Students reflect on the particular characteristics of the 21st century workplace, including ethical issues, and think about the pastoral and prophetic ministry of Christians within a secular environment. Common Worship TH5726 (20 Credits: Level 5) The module starts with a study of the background and contents of the Book of Common Prayer. It traces the history of liturgy in the Church of England, through various changes and attempted changes in the early and mid 20th century, to the development of Common 09

11 Adult Education TH5728 (10 Credits: Level 5) The module introduces students to different philosophies of education and invites them to think about their own past experience and preferred approach. Transformative education is suggested as an appropriate philosophy for education where there is an emphasis on personal formation, with theological reflection as one of the tools to achieve this. Through a selection of exercises students are encouraged to discover their own learning styles and to reflect on how education events can cater for different needs. Similarly Faith Development theories are introduced through experiential exercises and the question raised about whether the church is a good environment for adult education. The practicalities of planning, advertising, conducting and assessing educational events are introduced and students encouraged to put their learning into practice in a practical project. Leadership and Teamwork TH5730 (10 Credits: Level 5) The module explores biblical and theological models of leadership. These insights are combined with those from the secular business world in a discussion of team roles, leadership styles, collaborative ministry and leadership teams. Students are invited to reflect on the nature of the Church as a voluntary organisation and on the use and abuse of authority and power. Practical skills of leadership are introduced including managing meetings, time management, vision building, managing change and conflict. (Students taking this module normally demonstrate evidence of having undertaken fifteen hours Myers Briggs training. A further fee is payable for this event if it is done at St John s). Transforming Conflict in Church and Society TH5731 (10 Credits: Level 5) The module examines the nature of peace and asks how we practise it, not just on the world scene but in our homes and workplaces, personal relationships and worship. It outlines different attitudes to conflict, exploring biblical and theological perspectives, and encourages critical reflection on the process of ethical decision making. It introduces the student to issues surrounding reconciliation including the roles of the state/individual in conflict resolution. Participants are encouraged to study appropriate case studies (Irish sectarianism, Middle Eastern conflict, terrorism). As part of peacemaking initiatives, the relationship between peace and evangelism is explored, including the role of the Holy Spirit. Practical strategies for dealing with difference and diversity are suggested, including resources available to those ministering in such a context. 10

12 Assessment Assessment is by a series of written assignments. All 20 credit assignments require a total of 4000 words of summative assignment broken down into two assignments of 2000 words, or three assignments of 1000 and 1500 word assignments. All 10 credit modules require a total of 2000 words of summative assignment through completion of either one 2000 word assignment, or two 1000 word assignments. Most modules also require completion of a reflective formative assignment. Formative assignments do not contribute towards your final mark for the module but enables you to engage with the course material and reflect upon your progress in learning while summative assignments contribute towards your final mark for the module. 11 MODULE SUMMATIVE FORMATIVE New Testament Introduction TH4720 Old Testament Introduction TH4721 The Early Church and Creeds TH4722 Theological Reflection TH4723 Anglicanism TH4724 Ecumenical Studies TH4725 Vocation TH4726 Introduction to Spirituality TH4727 Church and Ministry TH4728 TH4729 Personal and Social Ethics Amos and Micah TH5718 Using the Bible Today TH5720 Exploring the Matrix of Christian Theology TH5721 Human Care TH5722 Journal and Reflection TH5723 Romans TH summative assignment of 1000 words and 2 summative assignments of 1500 words 1 summative assignment of 1000 words and 2 summative assignments of 1500 words 1 summative assignment of 1000 words and 2 summative assignments of 1500 words 1 theological reflection assignment of 2000 words Up to four theological reflection assignments 2 summative assignments of 1000 words each 1 formative assignment of 1000 words 2 summative assignments of 1000 words each 2 summative assignments of 1000 words each 1 personal reflection assignment 2 summative assignments of 1000 words each 1 personal reflection assignment 1 summative assignment of 1000 words and 2 summative assignments of 1500 words 2 summative assignments of 1000 words and 1 summative assignment of 2000 words 1 formative reflective learning journal 1 formative reflective learning journal 2 summative assignments of 2000 words 1 formative reflective reading journal 2 summative assignments of 2000 words each 1 formative assignment on biblical authority 2 summative assignments of 2000 words each 1 formative assignment of 1000 words 2 summative assignments of 2000 words each 1 personal reflection assignment 1 summative assignment of 2000 words Submission of personal development plan 1 summative assignment of 1000 words 1 short formative assignment and 2 summative assignments of 1500 words on a specified topic

13 MODULE SUMMATIVE FORMATIVE The Holy Spirit and the People of God TH summative assignments of 2000 words 1 formative assignment of 1000 words Common Worship TH summative assignment of 1000 words and 2 summative assignments of 1500 words 1 formative assignment of 1000 words Christians in the Workplace TH summative assignments of 2000 words 1 formative assignment of 1000 words Adult Education TH summative reflective assignment of 2000 words 1 personal reflection on education in churches Leadership and Teamwork TH summative assignment of 2000 words 1 SWOT analysis and reflection Transforming Conflict in Church and Society TH summative assignment of 2000 words 1 personal reflection Awards Students will be awarded the Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry (or the Certificate of Higher Education in Theology for Ministry if they decide not to proceed with the full Foundation Degree) upon successful completion of all assignments, subject to the approval of marks awarded by an assessment board of the University of Chester. These take place annually in June. Therefore, students who complete successfully will normally be awarded the relevant qualification in Theology for Ministry according to the timetables below: PROGRAMME START TIME: SEPTEMBER 2013 DURATION OF STUDY ASSESSMENT BOARD AT WHICH AWARD IS MADE Certificate in Higher Education Two years June 2015 Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry (taking both stages) Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry (taking only stage two or taking both stages full-time) Four years June 2017 Two years June 2015 PROGRAMME START TIME: MARCH 2014 DURATION OF STUDY ASSESSMENT BOARD AT WHICH AWARD IS MADE Certificate in Higher Education Two years and three months June 2016 Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry (taking both stages) Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry (taking only stage two or taking both stages full-time) Four years and three months June 2018 Two years and three months June 2016 Students who wish to study either Stage 1 or Stage 2 full time are welcome to contact us concerning the length of their programme of study (contact details are provided at the foot of the page). Note: successful completion of this award qualifies you to apply for the Bachelor of Arts in Theology for Ministry which converts your Foundation Degree into a full Bachelor of Arts degree. Please contact the St John s Registry for further details. 12

14 Applications Entrance Requirements Applicants for Stage 1 of the programme are normally required to have at least two A levels, an International Baccalaureate or equivalent in order to be registered on the Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry. Students who already hold a Certificate in Higher Education in Theology, or equivalent qualification, may contact us to discuss entry onto the Stage 2 of the Foundation Degree. Accredited Prior Learning Some applicants may be eligible for exemption from certain modules on Stage 1 of the programme. University regulations do not permit exemption from more than 60 credits worth of modules on this programme. In order to be eligible for exemption from a module, applicants must demonstrate that they have gained credits for an equivalent module in another Higher Education Institute which is recognized by the Higher Education sector in the UK. If you wish to enquire as to whether you might be eligible, please contact the registry: registry@stjohnsnottm.ac.uk Fee Some applicants pay their own fee whereas other applicants have their fee paid on their behalf by a sponsoring body. We require all applicants to indicate on the application form whether they are paying their own fee or whether they are being sponsored. Applicants who are being sponsored must provide the details of their sponsor on the application form so that we can contact them concerning fee payment. Applicants paying the fee themselves will be asked to indicate on the application form how they are paying the fee and they must be ready to demonstrate that they are able to pay the fee. The fee for the Foundation Degree in Theology for Ministry is currently 2895 for each stage of the programme for applicants intending to register in September 2013 or March This fee covers the whole stage regardless of how long a student takes to complete this stage of the programme. Students applying for entry into Stage 1 now are advised to note that the fee for Stage 2 may have changed by the time they progress into Stage 2. Students only pay the fee for the stage they are currently taking. There are four modes of fee payment and candidates will be required to specify which mode of payment they will use upon application: (a) Payment by lump sum: 2895 on application. (b) Payment by instalments over one year: students make an initial payment of 895, followed by two further payments of 1000 during the academic year (1 January 2014, 1 May 2014 or for March entrants 1 January 2015, 1 May 2015). (c) Payment by instalments over two years: students make an initial payment of 895, followed by five further payments of 400 during the two academic years (1 January 2014, 1 May 2014, 13

15 1 September 2014, 1 January 2015, 1 May 2015 or for March entrants 1 January 2015, 1 May 2015, 1 September 2015, 1 January 2016, 1 May 2016). (d) Payment by instalments over three years: students make an initial payment of 895, followed by eight further payments of 250 during the two academic years (1 January 2014, 1 May 2014, 1 September 2014, 1 January 2015, 1 May 2015, 1 September 2015, 1 January 2016, 1 May 2016 or for March entrants 1 January 2015, 1 May 2015, 1 September 2015, 1 January 2016, 1 May 2016, 1 September 2016, 1 January 2017, 1 May 2017.) Payments may be made by standing order or by a series of credit card payment. Applications will normally only be processed once the application payment has been made. Fees will be raised across one or more invoice one per year of registered year of study. All fees must be paid prior to the validation of students marks by the University of Chester. Please note that we do not offer refunds where students decide to leave their programme of study. All details given above were correct at the time of publication. St John s College reserves the right to make changes to the information given above. Further Information If you require any further information about the course, please contact our admissions department on or admissions@stjohns-nottm.ac.uk 14

16 Christians looking for a way to increase their faith with understanding will find St John s Extension Studies flexible, stretching and transforming. Whether you want to get to grips with the Bible at your own pace, or think about mission strategy or faith in the world of work, there are modules that will help you. I warmly commend these courses wherever I go, confident that there is nothing quite like them.. Christina Baxter CBE Former Principal of St John s College, Nottingham St John s College Chilwell Lane Bramcote Nottingham NG9 3DS Admissions admissions@stjohns-nottm.ac.uk General Enquiries enquiries@stjohns-nottm.ac.uk