Course summary
This programme focuses on the ministry of individuals and communities within contemporary society. Rooted in academic practical theology, and in dialogue with the social sciences, it integrates reflective professional practice within Christian spirituality. It exemplifies research and practice-led teaching for ministry, which is a distinctive feature of LST’s educational mission. LST is evangelical and interdenominational in ethos and this programme invites evangelical theology to be in conversation with the broader tradition of the Christian church. The programme allows students to engage with a range of perspectives within academic practical theology and seeks to enable deep theological reflection, whether in an explicitly church-based context or in charity or secular professional settings. Programme Structure: The MA in Practical Theology & Ministry has three core modules and three optional modules. Modules are delivered in a flexible Online/On-campus mode where students are free to engage in either or both modes during the same enrolment. Modules can be taken fully Online and asynchronously, or with live seminars (via video-conferencing), or in timetabled On-campus classes supported by the VLE content. Delivery options will run according to demand. Students will be asked to make their choice of optional modules/mode during the previous academic year/before enrolment. If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module/mode of study, or there are staffing changes which affect the teaching, it may not be offered. If an optional module/mode of study will not run, we will advise students after the module selection period when numbers are confirmed, and help students choose an alternative module/mode of study. The MA Practical Theology & Ministry (180 credits) includes the first core module on Practical Theology and Reflective Practice (40 credits), which is central to the whole programme. It provides an essential grounding in the literature in the field. The second core module on Dissertation Research and Design (20 credits) is included as compulsory, as well as the Dissertation (60 credits), where the student can select a particular topic for study in significant depth. Who is this Programme for? This programme is ideally suited for: (1) Existing church leaders looking to develop a theologically-informed practice of ministry (2) Graduate students in theology and religion wanting to spend a year or more preparing for Christian ministry. (3) Graduate students looking to acquire a secure foundation in academic practical theology as preparation for research degree level study (MPhil/PhD).
How to apply
International applicants
We welcome applications from people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities on our programmes. LST is proud to have a thriving international body of students living and studying at LST. All non-UK and international students will need to apply for a visa to study at LST. You can apply for a Student visa to study in the UK if you're 16 or over and you meet the following requirements: - You have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor. LST is a licensed sponsor for all undergraduate programmes. - You have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course. - You can speak, read, write and understand English. As of 1 January 2021, EU students are required to apply for a student visa under the new PBS. Assessment of one's eligibility for a visa will precede an offer of a place. Applicants for whom English is not a first language must ensure that their level of English is sufficient to undertake study at LST. If English is not your first language, you may be requested to take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), although this will be discussed prior to an interview. For some international students, studying at our campus is not an option, and so we also offer this course as both blended and online. Do not worry if you are unfamiliar with higher education in England! LST provides support for writing essays in the form of study skills, which all new students are required to attend. Additionally, LST lecturers operate an open-door policy, which together with peer-to-peer support available, ensures that your study experience is a positive one.
Entry requirements
The normal entrance requirements for this programme are a first degree in theology (2:1) or a previous degree in another discipline but with evidence of having studied theology to DipHE level, However, the programme Leader has discretion to consider other entry qualifications, so if your background does not conform to these requirements, please contact the programme Leader to discuss a possible way forward. Some students may be required to undertake preliminary studies to provide background and foundation knowledge prior to commencing the MA. Although this delays the start of the programme, our experience is that those students who take this route into the MA gain more from the programme and are able to produce stronger assignments as a result.
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5 |
To study in the UK, you will need to take a British Council IELTS test. You can take the IELTS test at any British Council office in your country, or at the British Embassy. We ask that you send us a copy of your certificate when you apply. Your ability to speak English will be assessed during an interview. An IELTS test is compulsory for anyone requiring a student visa. You can find out if your country is exempt at www.gov.uk/student-visa/knowledge-of-english
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Sponsorship information
Raising Theologians Scholarships Support for Theological Training – application now open for 2023 admissions. Scholarships will only be awarded to students who have been accepted to study at London School of Theology. London School of Theology offers a range of annual scholarships to students able to demonstrate financial need, exceptional academic ability / potential, or both. London School of Theology also offers bursaries for students in financial need, but these are only available for students once they have commenced their studies with us. Our Raising Theologians Awards are available at undergraduate and postgraduate level and across all programmes. They include scholarships covering fees and / or accommodation for one or more years. To apply for a scholarship with London School of Theology you should already have been accepted for a place to study with us. Am I eligible? To qualify for an undergraduate financial need-based award, you must fulfil the following criteria: - Have a family income as assessed by Student Finance England at below £35,001 - Not be in receipt of a tuition fee loan and maintenance loan from Student Finance England.
Provider information
London School of Theology
Green Lane
Northwood
London
HA6 2UW