Course structure
The first (certificate) year is a 120-credit course of study. Students complete 40 core credits and again a further 80 credits from optional elective units.
Core units:
Introduction to Theology | 20 credits |
Introduction to the New Testament | 10 credits |
Introduction to the Old Testament | 10 credits |
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Old Testament Exegesis | 10 credits |
New Testament Exegesis | 10 credits |
Introduction to Church History | 10 credits |
Introduction to Christian Leadership | 10 credits |
Introduction to Preaching | 10 credits |
Christian Discipleship | 10 credits |
Worship and Spirituality | 10 credits |
Mission Placement | 10 credits |
Research Skills | 10 credits |
During your induction, your programme lead will help you choose units most suited to your goals and interests.
Cliff College reserves the right to offer alternative options to those listed here, according to availability.
Placements
The year includes opportunities to engage in mission placement. Students work with the College to choose placements that relate to their particular interests or career objectives. Placements involve taking a reflective approach to Christian ministry, evidenced in the journalling and assessments required for this unit.
Teaching and assessment
Most units entail 15 hours of contact time between the tutor and the student group, including a mixture of lectures, discussions, and supervised individual or group work. The Mission Placement unit involves practical mission work at a placement chosen by the student in cooperation with the College. Tutors are available for individual consultation outside class time.
Units are assessed in a variety of ways: essays, prepared resource material, project work and reflection. Methods of research and analysis are taught and encouraged, and placements require reflective work connecting practice with theory. For each 10-credit unit, written work of 2,000 words is required and marking is done anonymously. Attendance is required at all lectures.
Completion and progression
On successful completion of the first year, students may progress to the second year (Level 5) of the BA Theology and Ministry degree at Cliff College. They can also exit with a Certificate of Higher Education in Theology and Ministry, awarded by the University of Manchester.