Welcome to Postgraduate Studies at Birmingham Christian College
With a remarkable diversity of expertise within the college faculty, and the valuable partnership we have with Newman University, postgraduate studies at Birmingham Christian College (BCC) are praxis-oriented and academically stimulating. BCC is an approved partner of Newman University, delivering programmes approved by and leading to an award of the Newman University degrees.
BCC’s partnership with Newman University brings an additional stature to the awards we offer, as postgraduate students are encouraged to make use of the breadth of joint expertise BCC faculty and this reputable university offers. The Christian ethos of Newman University is an added attraction for Christian ministers and leaders who seek postgraduate study from Christian educators, and thinkers from around the world.
The Masters Programme
The MA in Applied Theology (and the parallel Postgraduate Diploma or Certificate in Theology) is a taught programme with three study pathways. These equip students for missions, pastoral ministry, strategic leadership, and act as an exceptional platform for further research in any of the pathways and may provide for continuing professional development.
Structure of the Programme
Students on any BCC postgraduate taught programme take classes for each module consisting of around 300 dedicated study hours – a blend of lectures, seminars, preparatory reading, study, researching and writing of course work.
The full MA programme comprises of six taught course modules and a short research dissertation. The Postgraduate Diploma programme consists of six taught course modules without a dissertation. The Postgraduate Certificate programme consists of three taught course modules.
Delivery Method
Blended (i.e online and face-to-face intensive sessions)
Mode of the Programme
Students may study Full-Time for 1 year, or Part-Time for 2-3 years.
Module Format
Modules at BCC are generally delivered as blended and follow one of two schedule structures, either as weekly classes throughout term time, or over block period, usually week-long, known as ‘Intensive’ study sessions.
The schedule for the classes is published several weeks before the term commences, so students would know and do the core reading on the module ahead of time. There are three intakes yearly in February, May, September, and usually, there are 12 weekly sessions per module.
The Intensive sessions are held over six days full-time in-class study usually from Monday to Saturday. The class schedule will be published several months before class begins, to allow students to complete both the core and the weekly readings before classes begin. Intensive sessions are usually scheduled in September and March.
For the intensive sessions, students would travel to the beautiful leafy Selly Oak campus in the Birmingham to be resident on campus over the period of these sessions, and BCC offers accommodation students may rent.
To ensure student have a good learning experience, we limit class numbers, so it is always recommended to pick your modules early, however, note that all optional modules on the programme are subject to student numbers or intake. Whilst BCC will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes arise due to student numbers, student choices and staff availability. Students should be aware that not all optional modules will be offered every semester, due to staffing, timetabling, and/or insufficient student numbers. Where an optional module does not run or there are insufficient numbers for the module to run, BCC will endeavour to inform students promptly.
What a graduate should know and be able to do on completion of the Programme:
Following successful completion of any of the pathways of the programme, graduates should be able to analytically address a range of current questions in their chosen fields. They should be able to apply an advanced, systematic, and critical understanding of issues, and interpret a range of sources using a variety of tools, and methodological approaches. Students will know and understand how specific laws and acts that govern Christian ministry activities can be leveraged for growth and effectiveness. Graduates should be able to apply strategic leadership principles in leading intergenerational and multicultural churches and Christian organisations.
Entry Requirements
Evidence of candidates’ academic ability to work in the area of theological and ecclesiological praxis at an appropriate level and their potential to complete the programme may be provided in one of the following ways:
- A second class (or above) degree in Biblical Studies, Religious Studies, Theology or a cognate subject. A second class (or above) degree in another subject area, together with certificated learning (e.g. a Graduate Diploma) in Biblical Studies, Religious Studies, Theology or a cognate subject.
- At least two years’ professional experience in a senior position in a Church or Mission context. In such cases, where candidates do not have formal academic qualifications, an access module or written assignment may be used to help assess suitability for the programme. A transparent policy will be followed to ensure equity and parity with regard to student admissions.
- Accredited RPL/RPeL and in some cases where the RPL/RPeL is certificated will be considered for students wishing to transfer into the scheme with previously obtained part or intermediate qualifications from other UK HE institutions or their equivalent. This will follow the rules and processes for RPL/RPeL set out by Newman University, which allows for 90 credits of RPL for Master’s degrees.
International Admissions:
Those applicants with overseas qualifications in place of the standard academic entrance requirements will be assessed using UK NARIC and UCAS Guides to International Qualifications. Such qualifications would need to be of a standard equivalent to a second-class honours degree or above in order to ensure parity. Overseas students might also be admitted on the basis of professional experience.
English Language Requirements:
All students must provide evidence of appropriate competency in written and spoken English. For students whose first language is not English, and who have not studied in English up to at least Level 3, the normal requirement will be IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 575 or equivalent.
Programme Tracks
Pentecostal/Charismatic Missions
Pastoral Theology and Leadership
Strategic Leadership in Christian Ministry
Course Fees
For postgraduate course fees please click here.
For our other course fees please click here.
How to Apply
Find out how to begin the application process and access the online application form here.