Ministry – (M.A.)

Contents

Course length

Full-time: 2 years
Part-time: 5 years

All students begin the MA in Ministry by undertaking a module on theological reflection and reflective practice. This is a compulsory module which lays the foundation for research whether into the theory or practice of ministry. Thereafter students will choose two out of three modules on 'Mission and Ministry' or 'Theological Foundations for Ministry' or 'Professional Minsterial Practice'. There is also the opportunity to undertake a small independent study, which is attractive to student who are not continuing to write a dissertation and who are aiming to achieve the award of Postgraduate Certificate. However, most students continue to part two of the degree, a 20000 word dissertation, which for many represents the culmination of their studies.

Teaching, learning and assessment

The MA in Ministry is based on an innovative, tried and tested portfolio pedagogy. All the modules in part one of the programme are assessed by a portfolio in which students demonstrate the critical, analytical and constructive skills with which they have interrogated their ministerial theory and practice. Portfolio-based learning and assessment enables students to draw on a wide variety of learning situations from their parishes or faith communities and bring their knowledge and experience directly into their work as reflective practitioners. In the construction of portfolios learning is not separated from assessment any more than theory is separated from practice.
From the very outset of the course students will have been thinking about and planning their dissertations. This is an opportunity to undertake a significant piece of research that has relevance to their ministerial situation. The precise topic will be negotiated with the tutor and all students will be supported and guided by an appropriate supervisor.