BA (Hons) in Practical Theology

Following the Children and Family Ministry pathway on our BA Honours degree in Practical Theology offers a qualification for careers in various contexts with children, young people, and their families.

This course will expand your knowledge of child development and the role of children and family work. You will gain experience working alongside children in their communities, supporting them as they grow physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

This course combines interactive and creative teaching days with practical experience in Christian youth ministry and statutory settings. You will apply what you learn in the classroom while developing your knowledge, skills, and abilities by engaging with children and their families in churches and the wider community.

Studying on this pathway, you will gain:

• Essential knowledge of the Christian faith through key theological disciplines, and the ability to relate this understanding to youth and community work practice.
• A grounding in relevant social sciences such as psychology, sociology and cultural studies, and the ability to apply these as you serve children and their families in context.
• An in-depth understanding of community and church-based children and family ministry.
• Core skills as a children and family ministry practitioner.
• Broad experience of children and family work, through the completion of two pieces of alternative practice in community or statutory settings
• A range of transferrable skills, including independent and creative thinking, self-organisation, teamwork, communication, and project management, all of which will equip you for your upcoming career

Learning in and from practice

For the duration of the course, you will work and learn in a church or other appropriate setting, so your professional formation as a Children and Family worker will be rooted in ongoing practice.

You will have regular one-to-one tutorials with experienced practitioners who will support your personal and professional development. You will also participate in small group activities to help you apply what you learn to your practice.

Academic and Pastoral Support

You will receive support from a dedicated line manager and other supportive colleagues, as well as access to the supportive team within the theological college that oversees your studies.

Alongside the interactive lectures and seminars, you will be part of a facilitated peer formation group, have the support of a personal tutor, and have supervision externally by an experienced practitioner in the field. To find out what modules you will study, download our Course outline.

Where can you study?

In-person students attend two days per fortnight at our Nottingham teaching centre and spend the rest of their time in their practice context.

Online students participate in a range of scheduled group sessions and flexible individual activities. The rest of their time is in their local practice context.