Introduction to the Old Testament
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28 weeks
Part-time | Online
September 2026; application deadline 30 August 2026.
Maryvale HIRS
Overview
The Old Testament can be a confusing text to read. This introductory course addresses such questions as to why this is relevant to Catholics, how it relates to the New Testament and how Christ can be encountered in the Old Testament. The course walks through the historical books, from Genesis to 2 Maccabees, reading each on its own terms first and then asking how it is taken up and fulfilled in the gospel. It is for everyone who want to deepen their knowledge of the Old Testament and runs in partnership with the renowned Catholic Biblical School Ministry (CBSM).
Catechists, pastoral ministers, lectors, parish formators and any lay person who wants to read the Old Testament with both intellectual seriousness and the eyes of faith.
Requirements
No prior theological study required.
Computer or tablet with reliable internet access.
A working knowledge of English, minimum CEFR level B1. Non-native English speakers will need to provide written evidence of their level upon enrolment.
Course Fees
Six steps from first thought to enrolment. Take them at your own pace, and ask for help at any point.
2026 – 2027
£475
2027 - 2028
TBC
Certification Fee
£160
Structure & Modules
Twenty-five weeks of asynchronous teaching on Canvas, with a live tutorial every six weeks for discussion, questions and synthesis. The historical books are studied in canonical order, from the Pentateuch through Joshua, Judges, Samuel and Kings, 1 and 2 Chronicles and the post-exilic literature, to 1 and 2 Maccabees.
Welcome session: Thursday 17 September 2026, 6.45 p.m. UK time. Tutorials on Thursdays at 6.45 p.m., every six weeks. Maximum 20 students. Course lead: Dr Tamra Fromm.
Total Workload | 60 – 70 Hours
Programme Director
Dr Tamra Fromm
Lecturer
Lecturer in Catechetics and Scripture, Catholic International University, USA.
Course Tutors
Dr Tamra Fromm
Lecturer
Lecturer in Catechetics and Scripture, Catholic International University, USA.
Supervision & Assessment
All students complete a short monthly pastoral reflection of 150 words, marked by the tutor, and a final 1,500-word essay at the end of the course. Both are part of the course and are included in the fee.
The annual exam is optional and carries a separate fee. It is only for students who wish to be certified, leading to a Maryvale Higher Institute of Religious Sciences (HIRS) Certificate after one year and a Diploma after four years. Students who do not wish to be certified take the full course without the exam.
Accessibility
If you have a disability or any long-term condition that impacts on your day-to-day life, please download the Accessibility Form below, open and edit it in Acrobat Reader, and email or post the completed document to the Accessibility Coordinator (address included on the form), to ensure we can give you the best possible support during your course of study. Disclosing a disability will not be a factor in Institute’s decision as to whether or not to offer you a place on the course. However, it is important that the Institute knows if you have any specialist needs in order to provide you with appropriate support and facilities. This information will remain strictly confidential. For further information, please contact us to speak to the Accessibility Coordinator.
Contact us
Send us a message and a member of the Maryvale team will get back to you.