From part-time programmes to online learning – find a way to study that suits you.

Studying theology and training for ordination can be incredibly fulfilling and transformative experiences.

However, we also know that undertaking academic study can be a significant commitment – both spiritually and logistically.

To meet that challenge, St Augustine’s offers you a range of learning approaches and pathways, allowing you to effectively fit theological study around your life.

“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 student training for ordination at St Augustine’s

Fitting study around your life

For our diverse student community, being able to fit theological study or ordination training around a busy and full life is crucial.

Many of the people attending St Augustine’s are mature students, having chosen to return to study at the same time as working, volunteering, raising a family or caring for someone.

Our programmes are designed to allow you to study in a way that suits you; whether that’s studying for your degree part-time, or tailoring your course to reflect your interests.

Part-time and full-time study options

Almost all of the courses at St Augustine’s allow you to study part-time in some capacity.

As a part-time student, you’ll study the same subject matter as a full-time student, but you’ll complete your studies over a longer period of time.

This flexibility allows you to plan your study around your existing day-to-day life. Part-time students typically attend fewer classes on a week-by-week basis and require less study time.

For example: If you’re studying for the Certificate of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission, you can complete your studies over a single year (full-time study), or over two or three years (part-time study).

Rev Dr Stephen Laird explains how part-time study at St Augustine’s allows you to fit learning around your life, work and family commitments.

Learn more about flexible 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.

Study theology on campus or online

Students are invited to attend classes at either of our campuses, based in the South East of England. Many of our learning programmes now allow you to attend classes from anywhere, with online lectures and seminars.

Kent and London campuses

You have a choice of attending classes at either of our West Malling (Kent) and Southwark (central London) campuses.

Remote learning with online classes

Depending on your course and level of study, there are options to attend class virtually with online learning via Zoom.

Students typically attend teaching sessions at a set campus, but we know that life inevitably gets in the way of study sometimes. If you’re unable to make your usual class, you are free to rearrange and attend your class at an alternative campus or at a different time (if possible).

Study exclusively online

While many of our taster modules are available to study exclusively online, you can now study 100% remotely and take part in one of our undergraduate degree programmes.

The new Online Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) in Theology, Ministry and Mission allows you to study theology from anywhere in the world. Accredited by Durham University, you’ll engage in the same materials and be taught by the same academics as students attending class in person.

If you prefer online learning or are unable to access our campuses, this is the ideal option for students who want to dive into the world of theological study – from anywhere in the world!

Making study more accessible

We believe that any student who wishes to engage in the study of theology should be able to.

Here are a few of the ways we make study more accessible for students like you.

“St Augustine’s was the right choice for me because I was able to study on a non-residential basis, so I could continue living with my family in our home.”

St Augustine’s student

Student studying at St Augustine's

Flexible approach to assignments

As part of your studies, you will be expected to complete a certain number of assignments each term, within set deadlines.

However, we understand that juggling life and study often throws up unexpected challenges. If you believe you won’t be able to complete an assignment on time, there is scope to adjust requirements.

Your tutors will always be happy to discuss any concerns and do what they can to help you manage your commitments.

Lecture at The King's School Canterbury

Access to bursaries and financial support

As part of our commitment to making theological studies accessible to all, St Augustine’s has established a bursary fund.

Students whose financial circumstances might otherwise be a barrier to study can apply to access funding. The application process is discreet and non-intrusive.

Find out more about bursaries and other grant-giving funds via the link below, or get in touch with our admissions team if you require further support.

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.