BA Applied Theology, Diaconal Ministry.
- The BA in Applied Theology for Diaconal Ministry is intended principally for those men who are sponsored by a diocese for training in diaconal ministry, and who will subsequently be ordained as Permanent Deacons. Those who have already been ordained as deacons may also welcome this course because of the practical training and educational development which it offers. It is designed to both educate (at higher education levels), and train potential or existing permanent deacons in all areas of diaconal ministry. The course is modular in design, covering all the theology, pastoral theology, spirituality, human development, sacramental and liturgical practices which are essential to diaconal ministry.
- The course fully complies with the 1998 Vatican documents on the training of permanent deacons (Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Diaconorum Permanentium) and their way of life (Directorium Pro MinisterioeEt Vita Diaconorum Permanentium).
- This course is a five-year, part-time, distance-learning, modular programme leading to a BA(Hons) in Applied Theology. It is designed, however, so that the student deacon has covered all the elements needed for ordination and the start of diaconal ministry by the end of the fourth year, after which he could finish his studies with a Diploma in Higher Education.
- Diaconate students have a choice then of continuing their studies for the final two years, the final two years being particularly valuable as post-ordination training.
Collaboration with the Diocesan Director of Formation.
- In the case of those in training for the Diaconate, the Institute will work in collaboration with the Diocesan Director of Formation for the Permanent Diaconate. It is recognised that certain elements of formation will need to be supplemented at the Diocesan level and partnership with the Diocese is seen as a crucial element in the overall success of the programme.
The stages of the course
- After two years part-time study by distance-learning the student achieves a Certificate in Higher Education in Applied Theology (Diaconal Ministry), equivalent to the first year of a BA(Hons) and is awarded only to those students who leave the course at this point. This provides opportunities for demonstrating and applying a broad basic knowledge and understanding of the foundations of Catholic theology and praxis, and for displaying basic competences for working in a parish context as a deacon.
- After two years of study at higher education level 1, the student progresses to the next eighteen months at higher education level 2 and if successful gains a Diploma in Higher Education in Applied Theology (Diaconal Ministry), equivalent to the second year of a BA(Hons), on exiting the course. The modules at diploma level gives the student both a deeper appreciation of Catholic theology and practice, and advanced education for roles of increased responsibility in pastoral care and parish administration.
- Successful completion allows the student to gain entrance to the final eighteen months for a BA(Hons) in Applied Theology (Diaconal Ministry). This introduces the deacon to a broader range of pastoral, theological, apologetical, or specialist issues and associated contemporary situations. It also includes a research project of the student's choice.
- This programme is characterised by a holistic approach which encourages students to draw together the personal, spiritual, intellectual and educational dimensions of their lives into a coherent focus. It aims to unite theory and practice, to bring people to a high standard of competence as well as to contribute to students' own personal development.
Click here for the Programme Specification.
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