Answer your ordination calling with the Elizabeth Pathway

Exploring ordained ministry later in life? The Elizabeth Pathway offers a part-time, two-year route, offering a shorter journey towards ordination.

Key info

  • Next enrolment: September 2026

  • Duration: Part-time study over two years

  • Locations: Choose one or a combination of study locations:

  • Entry requirements:

    • Usually, for those aged 53-67, although this varies by diocese.
    • Have at least five years’ experience in lay ministry and proven leadership in your local church.

  • Qualifications available: Diploma in Higher Education (DipHE) in Theology, Ministry and Mission or BA (Hons) in Theology, Ministry and Mission

  • Cost: From £6,200 (for two years)

This course may suit you if...

You feel drawn to ordained ministry in later life and want a structured, supportive way to explore your calling while gaining a recognised theological qualification.

In this video, ordinand David Jones shares his experience of exploring diverse worship styles and church traditions as part of his ordination training at St Augustine’s College of Theology.

About the Elizabeth Pathway

The Elizabeth Pathway is a two‑year, part‑time course designed for those drawn towards ordained ministry later in life. Run by St Augustine’s College of Theology, this non-residential course offers a shorter, more flexible route to ordination, combining academic study with practical experience.

The first year focuses on exploring your calling, with progression to year two depending on a positive recommendation.

You’ll learn alongside other ordinands, LLM students, and independent learners, working towards a qualification in Theology, Ministry, and Mission (120 credits), validated by Durham University as part of the Church of England’s Common Awards partnership.

The Elizabeth Pathway is ideal for those bringing life experience and a strong sense of vocation to training.

What qualification will I get?

On completing the Elizabeth Pathway, you will gain a Certificate in Theology, Ministry, and Mission (120 credits), validated by Durham University under the Church of England’s Common Awards partnership.

How is the course structured?

Find out what you’ll learn on the Elizabeth Pathway.

Year One

In the first year, you will complete three 10‑credit modules and one 10‑credit theological reflection module, at level 4 or 5. You will also take a 20‑credit mission module, which includes a practical mission project.

Learning includes three pathway‑specific seminars and two residential weekends (including the first weekend of the course). Alongside academic theology study, students commit to regular ‘Sunday placement’ in their local church.

In the second year, you will take part in residentials and study three 20‑credit modules. The year includes six pathway‑specific seminars and a six‑week placement in a different parish, one that offers a different perspective on church life (with diocesan approval).

One of your placements will also include a pastoral care element, which could involve work in a hospice, hospital, or care home; supporting a church initiative; preparing for weddings or baptisms; or ministry in a school.

Learn how St Augustine’s flexible study options allow you to learn theology your way, fitting around your life.

Discover Ordination Training at St Augustine’s

What are the modules?

Each Elizabeth Pathway module is worth 20 credits and covers a wide range of subjects. The modules you take will depend on your chosen pathway.

  • Introduction to Biblical Studies

  • Doctrine and Church History

  • Worship and Spirituality

  • Reflective Practice, Ministry and Mission

“St Augustine’s has always been a place where ideas and action meet. As someone training for ordination part-time whilst working full-time, the ability to integrate study with my professional and personal life is essential.”

Duncan Gray, part-time ordination training student at St Augustine’s College of Theology.

Discover what it’s like to study at St Augustine’s

Come along to one of our open-day style taster events. Meet the staff, chat with fellow students, sit in on classes, and join us in worshipping together.

Frequently asked questions

This two-year, part-time course is a faster route to ordained ministry. The course suits people who want to train for ordination in later life but still wish to gain a recognised qualification.

You can choose to take your regular classes via:

In some cases, ordinands may be able to attend an online evening class (typically held on Wednesdays via Zoom) if circumstances prevent you from attending either of the in-person options.

As part of your studies, you will attend our annual Theological Symposium, held in Canterbury.

Please see below for the complete list of dates and locations for residential events throughout the 2026/27 academic year.

  • 25–27 September 2026 – Orida & St Benedict’s Centre
  • 16–18 October 2026 – Police Federation, Leatherhead
  • 20–22 November 2026 – Police Federation, Leatherhead
  • 5–7 February 2027 – Police Federation, Leatherhead
  • 5–7 March 2027 – Police Federation, Leatherhead
  • 14–16 May 2027 – Orida & St Benedict’s Centre
  • 11–13 June 2027 – Holiday Inn & St Benedict’s Centre

Exact details, including timings and accommodation information, will be arranged and shared with you closer to the time.

The amount of weekly study time depends on your chosen programme and study pathway. 

Typically, part-time ordinands will attend an average of 2.5 hours of taught classes per week, and you can expect to dedicate at least 10 hours a week outside the classroom to personal study. You will take one module each term, which involves two written assignments.

Yes. We provide comprehensive student support to help you, from learning how to write academically to accessing practical support if things get tough. 

As part of our commitment to making theological study accessible to all, we offer support for students who are neurodivergent or have learning differences. Examples include allowing extra time to hand in coursework, working with our dedicated writing tutor via online sessions, or other forms of support.

Theology books on the shelves St Augustine's Trinity House library

Next steps

Take the next step on your journey into studying theology.

Need help or have a question? Contact our admissions team for further assistance.