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Independent Study
Are you looking to engage in theological study, and gain an academic award or qualification? Are you a potential “independent” student - i.e choosing to study for your own interest and personal development, rather than because your church is formally requiring you to do so?
The Centre for Discipleship and Theology brings together students from a wide range of backgrounds and experience to explore various aspects of theological inquiry - be that doctrine or mission, Bible or worship. For some, this study is to inform their existing role or responsibilities within the local church, perhaps as accredited ministers or lay workers. For others, it is to inform their own personal discipleship, and to deepen their sense of who God is.
CDT students pursue a number of different awards and qualifications in a variety of modes and full- or part-time. Some may choose our flexible Queen’s distance learning online mode fitting studies around your other commitments and engaging with tutors and fellow students at particular points. Others study alongside ministerial students in weekday classes on campus or in online evening classes supplemented by residential study weekends. In some cases, it is even possible to blend a number of these different modes depending on particular circumstances.
- CDT students
- Personal tutors
- Safeguarding
- How to apply
Students in the Centre for Discipleship and Theology come from a variety of church backgrounds, and across the theological spectrum; therefore, there is no 'typical' CDT student. Some are wanting to gain a degree in theology, perhaps as part of exploring an ordained vocation, or perhaps to progress within a chosen, non-ministerial career. Others are wanting to deepen their own discipleship, and to discern where and to what God might be calling them.
Each student is allocated a personal tutor, usually from among the key CDT staff, who is available to work with you, on a one-to-one basis. We encourage you to meet with your personal tutor when you begin your programme at Queen’s to consider and discuss the academic and personal development which you hope to make while studying, and in some cases more formally to record those objectives so that they can be reviewed from time to time. You may make an arrangement to see your personal tutor a couple of times a term to reflect on your learning and experience, as appropriate.
An early meeting with your personal tutor can also be useful in highlighting study support which may be necessary. These matters will also be addressed during Induction and study skills class and support will be offered.
All sponsored and independent students will be required to undergo a DBS check during the registration process at the Queen’s Foundation. The Queen’s Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education works with the sponsoring churches to ensure that all students have been selected safely, including a criminal check.
Please note that students should not begin any external placement before the result of the DBS check is known and is clear.
To start the application process, please fill in the form below
For information on applying for Disabled Students' Allowance, and eligibility for it, please see our guidance here.
For further information, please contact admissions@queens.ac.uk
The CDT also works in partnership with the Dioceses of Lichfield and Worcester for the provision of their Reader training.