Explore theological study with a taster term

Curious about studying theology? A taster term lets you experience theological learning without committing to a full degree.

Join St Augustine’s students in engaging courses taught by our passionate and experienced tutors. 

Over 10 weeks you’ll study course content straight from our Durham University validated degree programmes in Theology, Ministry, and Mission.

Student Amanda discusses how a Biblical Studies Taster Term led her to think differently about the Bible.

‘I was in the discernment process with Canterbury Diocese, and my DDO suggested St Augustine’s for a taster module – it had been a while since I’d studied. I thought, why not give it a try and see how I get on? The welcome was amazing, and being able to discuss it with other people was really helpful.’

Hannah Morris, St Augustine’s Ordinand and former Taster Term student

Theology Taster Terms at St Augustine’s

Browse our theology Taster Terms for introductory or MA-level learning.

Theology Tasters for beginners

Suitable if you’re interested in studying theology – no academic experience needed.

Theology Tasters at MA level

Ideal if you’ve already studied theology (or similar) at university level.

Not sure which taster term is right for you? Get in touch with our friendly admissions team.

Get a taste for St Augustine’s

Join us on campus for an open-day style event and find out what studying theology is like. Meet the staff, chat with fellow students, and sit in on classes.

Frequently asked questions about taster terms

Taster Terms are single theology modules taught over one academic term (typically 3 months or 10 weeks).

Taster terms can help you explore whether university-level theology study is for you – they give you a taste of studying theology without committing to a full degree.

All our taster terms are lifted straight from our Durham University validated degree programmes.

As a taster-term student, you’ll learn alongside current students, engaging with the same course material and being taught by the same experienced tutors.

Whether you choose to enrol in further study after completing a taster term or just take it as an opportunity to learn something new, studying theology is an experience that’s well worth it.

Your decision may depend on a number of factors.

  • If you’re completely new to theological study at university level, the introductory taster modules will be your best choice.
  • If you’ve studied theology at University-level, the MA-level taster terms might be for you.

Whatever level of study you’re interested in, you can find the next available taster terms at the top of this page.

If you’re unsure about which terms might suit you, speak to our admissions team.

There are no formal academic entry requirements to undertake a taster term.

For the introductory taster modules, you don’t need any academic experience to sign up. There are some admission criteria to ensure you get the most out of your study experience.

For MA-level taster modules, we usually require you to have academic experience of studying theology (or a relevant subject) at an undergraduate level.

Concerned about meeting the entry requirements? Get in touch to chat with our friendly admissions team.

The introductory taster terms cost £250, and the MA-level taster terms are £500. The fee is payable when you sign up.

You will not earn a formal degree or qualification by studying a taster term.

However, if you enrol in one of our degree programmes at a later date, your taster term learning will be counted towards that qualification.

After completing your taster term, you’re very welcome to continue your studies by applying to one of our theology degree programmes.

If you have completed an introductory taster term, you are welcome to apply for our Certificate of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission.

If you have completed an MA taster module, you may wish to enrol in postgraduate theology study at MA level.

Of course, there’s always the option to sign up for a Biblical Languages course or another taster term if you’d like!

Taster terms are perfect for people who are going through the discernment process.

If you are thinking about applying for ordination training now or in the future, we encourage you to get in touch and take advantage of the support we can offer.