Undergraduate
Undergraduate Programmes in Divinity and Theology
*Revised
and updated for 2009-2010*
Is this
programme for me?
Bachelor of Divinity
Why
study theology? Religious beliefs provide a sense of
purpose, a source of values and a way of life for many
people. Studying theology gives you an opportunity to
learn about others' beliefs, to understand how these
beliefs have shaped societies, and to evaluate your own
beliefs - whether you are an active member of a faith
community, or have no faith at all.
The
University of London BD is one of the oldest and most
prestigious BD degrees in the world. It covers a range
of topics including philosophical approaches to religion
as well as more ministry-oriented topics such as liturgy
and the relationship of church and society.
Diploma and Certificate of Higher Education in Theology
These
qualifications are intended to appeal to two different
kinds of students. Firstly, those who would like a
University of London award in theology, but do not feel
ready to commit themselves to studying for a full
degree. Secondly, those students who do not satisfy the
University’s entrance requirements for admission to the
degree (Certificate of Higher Education only).
The
Diploma and Certificate give such students the
opportunity to gain access to the degree programme if
their studies are successful. If you obtain the Diploma
or Certificate in Theology you may transfer your
registration to the BD and automatically be credited
with the units passed.
Programme
aims
You'll
gain a deeper understanding of individuals and communities
who have been influenced by religious belief. Christianity
will be your main focus, with options to study other
religions and/or specialise in areas such as the philosophy
of religion and ethics, church history or science and
religion.
You'll be able to produce clear written accounts of
your knowledge and arguments, analyse texts, and study
questions which are of fundamental human concern.
Programme summary
| |
You study
|
Study period
|
Cost (2009-10)
|
|
Bachelor of Divinity
|
12
modules |
3-8
years |
£3,088 |
|
Diploma of Higher
Education in Theology |
8
modules |
2-5
years |
£2,054 |
|
Certificate of
Higher Education in Theology |
4
modules |
1-5
years |
£1,120 |
Prestige
and career progression
The
programmes have been developed by Heythrop College, a
specialist College of theology and philosophy within the
University of London. The skills you will gain are
valuable in many walks of life. The ability to
understand and analyse complex ideas and to produce a
coherent written account is essential in many contexts.
Theology is particularly useful not only for those
working with one of the churches, but also for those in
the teaching profession, the social services, or other
occupations that are concerned with people and their
values. The managerial and organisational levels of the
voluntary sector are also particularly interested in
those with theological expertise.
Flexible
study at a reasonable cost
You have 3-8 years
to complete the BD degree, 2-5 years to complete
the Diploma, and 1-5 years to complete the
Certificate. The total fees payable to the
University are £3,088 for the BD, £2,054 for the
Diploma, and £1,120. Please note that these
figures do not reflect any annual fee increase
and assume completion in the minimum study
period permitted.
Study
materials
The study
materials includes:
Note:
You need to provide your own textbooks - so before you
register for the programme the University will
advise you to consider the facilities available to you
locally, and how accessible books are likely to be.
Study
support
You can
either study independently at a pace that suits you,
or enroll for additional classes at a local institution
(either full or part time) and benefit from the more
formalized support this provides.
Summary of key dates
| Application
deadline |
17 September (non-EU)
17 October (EU)
in the year
before you intend to sit your first examinations
|
| Registration
deadline |
30 November |
| Despatch of
study materials |
Shortly
after your registration form is received |
| Start studying |
As soon
as you receive your study materials |
| Examinations
take place |
May |
