The BTh Suite of courses has been developed with Oxford University’s Department for Continuing Education and can only be studied at some of those institutions in Oxford which offer an ordination course for Ministry.
Students can study to three levels: Certificate (level 4), Diploma (level 5) and Degree (level 6), and all the courses can be taken either full-time or part-time. Within the BTh Suite, there is a solid core of ‘traditional’ theological subjects, such as biblical studies and doctrine, with a significant amount of work oriented towards practice and ministry.
The Certificate in Theological Studies, which is also the first year of the BTh, requires the study of six papers, at least one Biblical paper, one history or doctrine paper, and one paper in practical theology. There are also optional papers in Hebrew and Greek languages. All papers are assessed by essays, projects or portfolios, apart from the Biblical language papers for which there are seated exams.
On successfully completing the first year, candidates can move on to the Diploma in Theological Studies (one more year full-time equivalent) or the BTh (two more years full-time equivalent). Both the Diploma and the BTh require a further paper in biblical studies, in history or doctrine and in practical theology, and then allow choice for the remaining papers. The BTh also requires a piece of independent research, either a dissertation or project. The BTh itself is classed and it is an excellent basis for postgraduate study and research.
It is possible to apply directly to the full BTh course, in which case, three very good A level grades – or equivalent – are required, or to the CTS and then apply to transfer to the DTS or BTh afterwards.
Unlike applications for the BA, applications for the BTh are handled directly by the College, and candidates should apply directly to Regent’s. For more information on the content of the BTh, contact Revd Dr Anthony Clarke
anthony.clarke@regents.ox.ac.uk