Certificate, Diploma and Bachelor of Arts in Theology, Ministry and Mission
ERMC offers two pathways for academic learning – those with no previous formal theological training usually study for the Diploma of Higher Education and for those who have sufficient theological learning, a Master of Arts. Both are validated by Durham University as part of the Church of England’s Common Awards programme for ministerial training which ensures that learning is robust, vocational and of the same standard throughout the country.
For the Diploma of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission (DipHE) modules are delivered partly at residential weekends and partly through evening classes:
Evening classes happen at our centres in St Albans, Cambridge, Wisbech and Norwich. If you are unable attend one of these centres you can join our online classroom. Learning at all the Centres follows the same programme and staff meet regularly to ensure parity across the Region. The classes are enhanced by internet based resources and a common Virtual Learning Environment especially adapted for ERMC.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with ERMC – three years have raced by. Before joining I felt that I was starting from a low academic point having never been to university. I was anxious about whether I would be able to keep up with what was expected. I needn’t have worried – from the very start I was welcomed, encouraged and supported by my tutors and fellow students alike. As a result, my self-confidence has grown, my faith has flourished and my abilities have been awakened and developed. I’m very grateful for all the learning opportunities I’ve had. I feel blessed and privileged to have been part of the ERMC community.
Jo Mabey, former student
We teach theology, ministry and mission as an applied course right from the beginning. You will be helped make connections between your ministry experience and the academic course content. At the residential weekends you will study subjects such a ministry and worship, reflective practice, and ministry and mission. The evening classes cover subject such as Bible, Doctrine, Pastoral Care, Ethics and Spirituality. Click here to download sample course outlines.
The Certificate of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission (CertHE) is the equivalent of the first year of a Bachelor of Arts degree. Most of our Licensed Lay Ministry and Lay Reader students graduate with the Certificate. Full credit is given if you enrol with us to study at the diploma level at a later stage.
The Diploma of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission (DipHE) is the equivalent of the first two years of the BA. Most of our ordinands graduate with the Diploma and some Reader/LLM students complete the Diploma after their licensing as part of continuing education.
Students can complete their Bachelor of Arts in Theology, Ministry and Mission through ERMC. This is suitable for students who enter ordination training with a previous theological qualification or for those who have completed a Diploma as part of their ordination training and would like to complete the degree in their curacy. We also offer other advanced programmes, such as the Graduate Diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission, for candidates with relevant previous qualifications.