Explore Scripture with Modern Insights and Critical Tools in this biblical studies taster term

Theology Taster Term for September 2025

Get a taste for studying theology, attend classes with fellow theology students and dive into a spiritually exciting exploration of Scripture.

Key info

This course may be for you if...

…you’re interested in trying out theological study at university level for yourself, regardless of previous learning experience.

College Principal Alan Gregory chats about what kinds of topics you’ll explore as part of this exciting foundational Taster Term.

About the taster term

This exciting foundational taster term introduces you to the contemporary study and understanding of Scripture.

Join fellow students in exploring some of the most important issues relating to Christian life and worship. Learn how to use the major critical tools that scholars employ to interpret the Bible, as you familiarise yourself with the story of modern Biblical criticism.

As well as covering all the traditional theological disciplines, this 3-month Taster Term helps you to hone your skills in theological reflection. Through your study experience, you’ll be able to develop a faith-based perspective on every aspect of daily life.

As a Taster Term student, you’ll be attending classes in your chosen location and/or format, learning alongside theology students and those training for ministry.

“Studying the Introduction to Biblical Studies module opened up a whole new world of understanding Scripture.

I compare it to being like a sponge put into a warm bath and soaking up the knowledge that now enables me to explain my faith!”

Vicki
Theology student at St Augustine’s

Where and when will I be attending classes?

Depending on what works for you, you can choose to attend classes in-person at our Kent or London campuses, or virtually via online evening classes.

Classes take place through the autumn term of our 2025 academic calendar, from September to November.

Location: Southwark campus, central London
Day: Mondays
Time: 6:30pm – 9:00pm

Dates:

  • 14th September, online induction session (10:00 – 12:00pm)
  • 16th, 23rd & 30th September
  • 7th, 14th & 21st October

Reading week

  • 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th November

Location: West Malling campus
Time: 10:30am – 4:00pm
Day: Fridays (fortnightly)

Dates:

  • 14th September 2024, online induction session (10:00 – 12:00pm)
  • 20th September
  • 4th & 18th October

Reading week

  • 8th & 22nd November

Location: Online
Time: 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Day: Wednesdays

Dates:

  • 14th September, online induction session (10:00 – 12:00pm)
  • 11th, 18th & 25th September 2024
  • 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd October

Reading week

  • 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th November

College Principal Alan Gregory chats about what kinds of topics you’ll explore as part of this exciting foundational Taster Term.

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

At St Augustine’s, we believe we should make theological learning as accessible as possible. If you’re intrigued by studying theology at university level but joining a full undergraduate programme feels like too big a step right now, this taster term might be for you.

Taster terms (or “taster modules” as they’re sometimes referred to) give you an opportunity to whet your appetite and test your aptitude for studying theology without committing to a full programme. It allows you to take a single 20 credit module which is taught as part of St Augustine’s undergraduate programme in Theology, Ministry and Mission.

Many of our taster module students decide to enrol fully onto our undergraduate programme (i.e. with university accreditation) after successfully completing this module.

Are you considering ordained or licensed lay ministry? This module can be a great choice, especially if you are not yet on a church-sponsored ministerial programme or are unfamiliar with theological study.

You will be expected to attend either evening classes or teaching days. As part of your studies, you will be expected to complete two assignments.

You should expect to devote at least 10 hours of independent study per week to get the most out of your academic experience.

There is support in place for those who may need help with adjusting to and learning how to engage in academic learning and writing.

There are no academic entry requirements to undertake this taster module.

However, there are some admission criteria in place to ensure you can get the most out of your study experience.

The fee for the taster module is £250, payable before you begin your studies.

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.