The Certificate in Theology (ThC) course has three stages with each stage consisting of six units. Certificates for each stage are awarded upon the successful completion by examination of the prescribed six units for that stage. The three stages are as follows (follow the link to view the units for each stage):
Study notes for each unit consist of ten studies which are intended to be covered over a period of ten weeks (ie, a term). They come with suggested extra reading and exercises to help in the understanding of the material in the notes. More information can found in our Study Materials section.
Flexibility
The course is designed to be as flexible as possible, allowing students to go at their own pace. Students may enrol without sitting for any of the exams, however no certificate will be awarded.
No Educational Requirements
There are no prior educational requirements and the 'average' person could successfully complete this course with appropriate study. Students should be prepared to spend about five hours each week studying the subject, but the more work done, the more value they will gain from the course.
Enrolment
Students normally enrol in one or two units per term and it is possible to enrol in as many or as few terms as you like. Though the course is by correspondence, many students have found it helpful to study in a group.
Students are advised to study the units in the designated order, but the order can be varied if the course is being studied in a group or if the student is choosing not to sit exams. Check the 2010 Term Calendar to know which units are offered in which terms.
Students may begin their study in any term. Course materials are sent out as soon as an enrolment is processed, so students may opt to receive materials ahead of time by enrolling early. There are four terms, commencing on the following dates:
• Term 1: March 1 • Term 2: June 1 • Term 3: September 1 • Term 4: December 1
Enrolment deadlines are set two weeks prior to the commencement of each term. Each term lasts ten weeks and is followed by a two week exam period. Exams are optional, but helpful for ensuring an adequate grasp of the course material. Successful completion of exams is required for students seeking to be awarded a certificate.
For more information on enrolments, visit the Enrolment Fees and Enrolment Forms pages.
The course is not designed to lead to ordination in any denomination, but can be a valuable preparation for full-time theological study. Many organisations accept the PTC or ThC as evidence of basic theological study.
ThC in Other Languages
Our course is also fully available in Spanish and partially available in traditional Chinese.
• Para averiguar sobre la versión en español de los Cursos a distancia, haga clic aquí.
• View our Chinese brochure and find a Chinese group near you.
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