BA (Hons) Theological Studies A Community of Faith and Scholarship
Highland Theological College UHI (HTC) is an independent nondenominational college run by its own Board and, at the same time, one of thirteen colleges and research institutions which together make up the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI). This enables HTC to retain its strongly evangelical, Reformed ethos within the university sector giving HTC a unique opportunity to impact on the training of ministers from a number of denominations. The BA (Hons) Theological Studies programme provides a broad knowledge and understanding of the main disciplines of Christian theology, and the personal and professional capabilities required for a variety of ministries and other professions. The course is centred on three main themes: biblical studies; theological/historical studies; applied studies. Students are taught to engage critically, objectively and fairly with a wide spectrum of theological viewpoints, although the course reflects the evangelical and Reformed ethos of the College. All the tutors are actively involved in church work; many preach regularly in the local churches.
Students can study either full-time or part-time or other part-time. full-time students normally complete three modules (60 credits) per semester, six modules (120 credits) per academic year;. part-time students normally complete three modules (60 credits) per year; other part-time is where the number of modules studied each year can be chosen to best suit individual circumstances. It is also possible for students to pick and choose individual modules without committing to studying a whole degree course. Most modules are available off-campus; a few modules require some time to be spent on-campus. Students may take advantage of the flexibility of the course by combining modes, as their circumstances permit. Off-campus students follow the same academic calendar as oncampus students, all having the same assignment deadlines and exam dates. Semester 1 runs from September to Christmas; Semester 2 runs from late January to May. HTC is a non-denominational college which has been approved by a number of denominations, including the Church of Scotland, as a provider of education and training for Ministers, Ordained Local Ministers and Readers. A Community of Faith and Scholarship
Where can I study? Students can choose from a range of options: our main campus is in Dingwall; HTC has classrooms in Paisley; study at another UHI campus; study from home. We have students based throughout Scotland as well as some in the rest of the UK and further afield. HTC-Paisley
FAQs I cannot come to HTC-Dingwall. Where can I study? If you live in the Central Belt you can attend our classrooms there: HTC-Paisley, The Wynd Centre, 6 School Wynd, Paisley PA1 2DB; If you live near another UHI campus (see map on adjacent page) you can study there please contact the Registry Officer for more information; Or you can study from home. How do I get classes if I m not at college? Students based outwith HTC-Dingwall receive classes by videoconference or by Jabber software at home. You can see and hear the lecturer and your classmates and can even participate and ask questions. Can I study at my own pace? You can choose the number of modules you take in each academic year but regardless of your place or mode of study each module must be completed within the relevant semester, following the course timetable for assignment submissions and examinations. What about library books? College-based students will have access to library facilities. A lot of material is available electronically; other books can be posted to home-based students. I work night-shift so I can t attend classes in the daytime. That s ok you can view recordings on our virtual learning environment (VLE) at a time that suits you. You will still be able to email or phone your lecturers, the programme leader or your personal academic tutor. If I study from home will I feel isolated? As well as the VLE there are plenty opportunities to be in touch with classmates, lecturers and other staff. Also there is a Conference Day each semester to get together for help, encouragement and discussion.
First Year (SCQF Level 7) Qualification gained if you finish at the end of this level: CertHE Theological Studies (Certificate in Higher Education). Modules include: Evangelism Greek Grammar I Introduction to Pastoral and Practical Theology core Introduction to Systematic Theology core Jesus and the Gospels core Pentateuch core Protestant Reformation core Understanding Worship core Core module
Second Year (SCQF Level 8) Qualification gained if you finish at the end of this level: DipHE Theological Studies (Diploma in Higher Education). Modules include: Biblical Theology of Mission Cross-Cultural Mission Early Church History Exploring Other Faiths Greek Grammar II Hebrew Grammar I Hebrew Grammar II Introduction to Youth Ministry Old Testament Prophecy Pauline Theology Person and Work of Christ Sacramental Theology The Study of Counselling Theories
Third Year (SCQF Level 9) Qualification gained if you finish at the end of this level: BA Theological Studies. Modules include: Christian Spirituality Counselling in a Pastoral Setting Doctrine of God Greek Texts Hebrew Texts Hebrews Homiletics Placement Scottish Church History Theological Studies Project Wisdom Literature
Fourth Year (SCQF Level 10) Qualification gained if you finish at the end of this level: BA (Honours) Theological Studies. Modules include: Christian Ethics Dissertation (40 Credits) Guided Reading Hermeneutics Holy Spirit and the Word Luke-Acts Medieval Church History Psalms "At a recent meeting with the presbytery convenor I was asked why I had chosen HTC instead of another training provider. It was easy to answer: I enjoy being part of a community that is not just an academic, community but a worshipping community. To work constituted by collective prayer and in such a helpful and friendly environment is a real joy. It is truly a privilege to be part of HTC." BA student
Fees and Funding In most cases, Scottish and EU domiciled students have their fees paid for them by the Students Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS). This is why HTC s BA course is significantly less expensive for most students than courses at other independent theological or bible colleges. For details please see www.saas.gov.uk. Other UK students should apply to their Local Education Authority (LEA) for tuition fees support. Other grants and bursaries may be available depending on personal circumstances. Non-Scottish resident students in the rest of the UK are encouraged to apply for an HTC Scholarship or a UHI RUK bursary. See www.htc.uhi.ac.uk/courses/scholarships for details and contact the Finance Officer to find out if you are eligible. More fees and funding information is available on our website at www.htc.uhi.ac.uk/courses/ba-hons-theological-studies/#tabfunding. All enquiries regarding fees and funding should be made to the Finance Officer on barbara.macphail@uhi.ac.uk or 01349 780000. How to Apply Contact the Registry Officer on htcadmissions@uhi.ac.uk or 01349 780000 or apply online using our website www.htc.uhi.ac.uk/courses/ba-hons-theological-studies. We accept applications through UCAS or directly to HTC. Particular consideration will be given to students who may not have the formal qualifications but whose work experience may give evidence of ability to complete the course.
EU and International Students EU Students In most cases, EU students domiciled in Scotland for the duration of their studies will have their fees paid for them by the Students Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS; see www.saas.gov.uk). EU students not resident in Scotland and who elect to study offcampus will pay RUK/EU off-campus fees and will not be eligible for SAAS support. See www.uhi.ac.uk/en/studying-at-uhi/first-steps/howmuch-will-it-cost/tuition-fees-undergraduate#wysiwygtab-content-3 for more information. Non-EU International Students (students who do not normally reside in the UK or European Union) On-Campus international students must undertake full-time study and will require a Tier 4 UK Visa to relocate to Scotland. Read more about visas at www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa. Please note, in particular, the financial requirements and the need for evidence of private funds to sustain students during their period of study: the first year s fee is payable in full at least 3 months before the start of studies (ie by mid-june for a mid-september start date); an Unconditional Letter of Offer and a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) will not be issued by UHI until the fees have been paid. Both are required to support a Tier 4 UK visa application. Also, please be aware that Tier 4 UK visas limit the hours of paid employment that can be undertaken. International students not resident in Scotland and who elect to study off-campus will pay an Online fee which is the same as the RUK/EU off-campus fee. See www.uhi.ac.uk/en/studying-at-uhi/firststeps/how-much-will-it-cost/tuition-fees-undergraduate#wysiwygtabcontent-3 for more information. Further information, including English language requirements for students from countries where English is not the prevalent language, may be found on www.uhi.ac.uk/en/studying-at-uhi/international.
Evangelical Reformed Non-denominational Highland Theological College UHI High Street Dingwall Ross-shire IV15 9HA Study full-time or part-time 01349-780000 htc@uhi.ac.uk www.htc.uhi.ac.uk Study at a location convenient to you Be part of a worshipping community A Community of Faith and Scholarship Scottish Company Number: 149728 Charity Registration Number: SC 029190 0917