Courses: MA in Pastoral Theology
Who is it for?
The MA is a course for those who wish to focus on pastoral theology. It is the most likely option for ordinands who have already completed a degree in Theology. It is taken by some three-year students who do the two-year Diploma course and them move on to the MA in their third year (though it is also possible to start it half way through their second year). The MA is also taken by many lay people. It is a regional course, and is taken by many wishing to pursue continuing ministerial education. It can be pursued either on a full-time or part-time basis. Of all the courses on offer through Ridley in the Federation, the MA attracts the widest mix of people.
Who awards it?
The MA is awarded by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).
Entry requirements
The normal requirement for entry is the successful completion of at least two years of theological study. Occasionally this is relaxed to allow entry to a well equipped and motivated person who has studied theology for less than that.
Length of study
There is considerable flexibility and variety about the length of time taken for the MA. It can be completed in one year, in six years or anything in between! A theology graduate who takes the MA alongside some CertHE courses (a common pattern) will normally complete the MA during their two years' training. A student who takes the MA following the Diploma course will often complete four modules during their third year but have the dissertation (which is always the final module to be done) remaining to complete after leaving Ridley.
Students who do not wish to take all five modules are eligible to attain the Postgraduate Certificate in Pastoral Theology (on successful completion of two modules) or the Postgraduate Diploma in Pastoral Theology (after successful completion of four modules).
The course requires the acquisition of 180 units, 60 of which are gained through the writing of a dissertation and 120 by the completion of four modules, one of which must be the core module, 'Pastoral Theology in History and Practice'. Modules generally comprise 24 sessions of lectures and interactive seminars beginning in either Semester 1 (start of the Michaelmas term) or Semester 2 (early February). Some of the modules are taught through individual supervision and reflection on practice.
Who teaches it?
The MA is taught mainly by staff from the Cambridge Theological Federation. Teachers with expertise from outside the Federation also make a significant contribution.
Cost
See our course fees page for full details of the cost of studying for the MA in Pastoral Theology.
Course details - MA
- MA (also Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma in Pastoral Theology)
On this page:
