Bachelor of Arts in Applied Theology (Parish Catechesis).
- The BA in Applied Theology for Parish Catechesis is intended for those who care to spread the faith effectively. It is designed to form key catechists, working in parishes, dioceses or other ecclesial settings, working with children, young people or adults, whether liturgy groups, groups for sacramental preparation, RCIA and other adult catechetical programmes, that nourish deeply the faith of God's people.
- The course is designed in such a way that a student not only receives a comprehensive and thorough doctrinal and theological formation, but also learns at the same time how to hand this on with methodologies that are appropriate to the communication of God's revelation in Jesus Christ. The integrated unity of these disciplines has no equivalent elsewhere at present. For example, it includes not only in-depth teaching on Scripture but appropriate and inappropriate ways of using Scripture in catechesis, according to the Church's own criteria and guidance.
- This is a five-year, part-time, distance-learning programme leading to a BA(Hons) in Applied Theology (Catechesis). At present there are two ‘pathways', one for training in parish catechesis, the second for training in diaconal ministry. The programme is structured so that a person can continue up to the level that suits them and gain a nationally recognised academic standard at that level:
- After two years part-time study by distance-learning the student reaches the level of a Certificate in Higher Education in Applied Theology (Catechesis), equivalent to the first year of a BA(Hons). This level provides opportunities for founding and demonstrating broad basic knowledge, understanding and competences for assisting in a parish context.
- For those who wish to go further, successful completion of the first two years gains entrance to the 18 months part-time study by distance-learning to reach the level of a Diploma in Higher Education in Applied Theology (Parish Catechesis), equivalent to the second year of a BA(Hons). This level gives both a deeper appreciation of Catholic theology and training for roles of increased responsibility in catechesis.
- Successful completion of the Diploma years gains entrance to the final 18 months part-time study by distance learning for a BA(Hons) in Applied Theology (Catechesis). This is designed to train people in all the disciplines needed for delegated leadership roles in catechesis requiring high levels of theological knowledge and reflection for informed practice according to the mind of the Church.
- 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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