Courses for Ministry

From its earliest beginnings, the University of Cambridge has provided a context for formation and training in Christian ministry. Today, working in partnership with the theological colleges and institutes of the Cambridge Theological Federation, the Faculty of Divinity provides a Bachelor of Theology for Ministry (BTh) degree and a Diploma in Theology for Ministry.

Admissions

Admission to these vocational awards is at the discretion of the BTh Management Committee, which reviews all applications on behalf of the Faculty Board.

In the first instance, all enquiries and applications should be made to one of the following training institutions:

• Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology (Roman Catholic Church)
• Ridley Hall (Church of England)
• Wesley House (Methodist Church)
• Westcott House (Church of England)
• Westfield House (Lutheran Church)

Course Descriptions

Bachelor of Theology for Ministry (BTh)

The Bachelor of Theology for Ministry (BTh) is a two year vocational degree.

The course is divided into the First Examination and Second Examination years. Entry to the First Examination year is possible for those candidates who have who have a good first degree of at least a 2:1 or equivalent. The regulations require that candidates must complete a pastoral portfolio - a written piece reflecting on their ministry placement - to the satisfaction of the examiners in order to proceed to the degree.

The requirement of constant, intentional integration of pastoral activity (taking the form of a compulsory ministry placement), self-awareness and academic study makes it an intense experience and a good preparation for public ministry.

As well as attendance at lectures and seminars, the BTh offers a particular emphasis on small-group teaching and regular supervision.

Diploma in Theology for Ministry (DTM)

• The Diploma in Theology for Ministry (DTM) is a graduate entry programme designed primarily for candidates preparing for authorised Christian ministry or service. The DTM may be studied full-time in a single year or part-time over two years. Candidates are required to take five papers (or their equivalent).
• The regulations require the following compulsory elements: BTh51 Pastoral Portfolio, a 3,000 word reflective report on a practical ministry placement organised as part of the Diploma, as well as a dissertation of 8,000 - 10,000 words. 

Paper Descriptions

Below is a list of papers offered for the BTh and DTM. Please note that not all papers are offered every year.

Further information about these papers is available here.

Supplementary Regulations are available here.