KEY FACTS

Three year, part-time programme

Accredited students gain a formal Graduate Diploma in Theology, validated by The Open University in partnership with Union School of Theology

Delivered at Redeemer Church Denton

Fees: £2,267 per year

KEY links

OVERVIEW

Redeemer Church Denton is partnering with Union School of Theology (UST) to facilitate a rigorous theological study at the graduate level. The Graduate Diploma in Theology (GDip) is accredited by The Open University in the UK. Combining both academic and spiritual formation, the GDip provides a solid grounding in biblical, theological, historical and pastoral theology. Delivered through our Union Learning Community at Redeemer Church, students benefit from the world class teaching of Union’s faculty along with the guidance and practical mentoring of Lead Mentor Dr. Micah Caswell.

WHO IS IT FOR?

The GDip is designed for those who are stepping into formal ministry or leadership positions, but also for those already in ministry who have simply missed out on the benefit of formal theological education. It’s particularly suitable for assistant pastors, church interns, youth and women’s workers and evangelists.

Applicants should already have a undergraduate degree in a subject other than theology, a basic theological knowledge (either through previous formal education or private study) as well as some ministry experience. 

WHAT DOES THE GDIP COVER?

The programme provides a solid foundation in biblical studies, theological and historical studies, as well as pastoral and missional studies. Teaching and assessments are delivered by UST’s lecturers including Professor Michael Reeves, Professor Robert Letham, Daniel Hames, Peter Mead and Neil Powell. There are 6 modules in total. At the North Texas Learning Community, students take 2 modules each year over three years.

Module Rotation:

Year 1: English Exegesis & Turning Points in Church History

Year 2: Studies in the Old Testament and New Testament & Church and Mission

Year 3: Studies in Systematic Theology & Studies in Preaching and Pastoral Theology

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Students on the GDip study alongside each other in the Learning Community based at Redeemer Church Denton. Teaching is delivered through tailor-made video lectures while discussion and activities are facilitated by the Lead Mentor and Assistant Mentors. Students have access to teaching materials, resources and eBooks through Union’s Cloud platform that supports them in learning and assessments, and they can also communicate regularly with lecturers.

The North Texas community delivers the GDip over three years, and meets on two Wednesday evenings and one full Saturday per month during semester-time, for 22 teaching weeks per year, followed by revision and exam weeks at the end of each semester. Students should expect to commit 30 weeks in total each year, and set aside an additional 10-12 hours per week for personal study alongside the time spent at the Learning Community.

This weekly commitment includes reading, the day in the community and assessment writing time, and it is up to the student how they divide their time over an average week. Assessments are carried out through a combination of essays and exams, and students are given support on how to undertake these. 

WHAT ARE THE ADMISSION DETAILS?

To take the qualification on an accredited basis (gaining a formal qualification), prospective students should already have a degree in any subject other than theology. Other qualifications and experience which demonstrate an applicant’s suitability may also be acceptable and it’s best to discuss this with UST.

For those without a degree it is also possible to take the GDip on an unaccredited basis. Unaccredited students receive the same training and do the same assessments but do not work towards a formal qualification. Students (whether accredited or unaccredited) achieving an average mark of 50% or more can be considered for accredited study on UST’s MTh programme – meaning they can progress from having no higher education level qualification to gaining a formal Master’s Degree in Theology.

Studies begin in September each year and applications should be submitted to UST by July 30th. UST will accept applications after this date but cannot guarantee that they will be processed in time for the beginning of the academic year.