Whether you’re developing social policy, running a business or are a minister of religion, this innovative part-time doctoral course will deepen your understanding of the spiritual and ethical dimensions.
Full description
Developed and run in partnership with the Cambridge Theological Federation, our course begins with an in-depth introduction to practical theology’s key debates, methods and thinkers; and to advanced research methods. This is delivered through two taught modules, available through either blended or distance learning, each assessed by a 7,000-word assignment. On satisfactory completion of the taught modules, you will develop your research proposal and then complete a 60,000-word dissertation.
Throughout the programme, you will benefit from the support and guidance of world class theologians; and from high-quality supervision and research training. There are a number of research seminar days each year, as well as a three-day summer school, but with an independent study commitment of 6-8 hours per week it’s possible to combine the course with a job.
Personal faith commitment isn’t necessary – and you’ll be able to tailor your research proposal to reflect your personal and/or professional interests.
This course is affiliated with the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at ARU, and the University's campus in Cambridge. Find out more about research in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Course Leader: Dr Andrew Todd.
Theologians from Anglia Ruskin University and the Cambridge Theological Federation will support the taught stage of your course and we’ve supervisors available nationally and internationally to support you in preparing your thesis. The University provides a full programme of research training.
Your department and faculty
At the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, we believe in thinking critically about the past, present and future to challenge perceptions and better understand communities and people.
With expertise from gender issues to literary analysis to exploring how the past has shaped our modern world, all our staff members are active researchers. This is reflected in our teaching, allowing us to support our students with the latest theories and practices, as well as essential employability advice.
Where can I study?
Cambridge Theological Federation
Based in Cambridge, the Federation offers several postgraduate degrees accredited by ARU.
Course fees
UK students, 2024/25 (part-time, per year)
£2,392
International students, 2024/25 (part-time, per year)
£7,950
Bench fees
In some cases extra costs known as bench fees will be charged for a postgraduate research degree. These are to cover additional/exceptional costs directly related to a specific research project.
Some examples of these costs are (the list is not exhaustive): equipment hire, access costs to specialist equipment/workshops, volunteer expenses, specialist tissue/cell culture, specialist reagents or materials, specialist software, access to specialist databases, data collection costs, specialist media, recording or digital storage needs.
We charge bench fees in bands. They may apply for every year of your course. These bands are the same for full- and part-time students.
If you have to pay bench fees this will be made clear at your interview, and stated in your offer letter.
For 2024/25 the bench fee bands are:
- £500
- £1,200
- £2,200
- £4,500
- £8,900
Writing up fees 2024/25
£1,200
How do I pay my fees?
You can pay your fees upfront, in full or in instalments – though you won't need to pay until you've accepted an offer to study with us. Find out more about paying your fees.
Funding
For advice on the Doctoral Loan and other sources of funding, including ARU scholarships, visit our finance guide for postgraduate researchers.
You might also find The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding helpful.
ARU's academic excellence was recognised in 2021, as part of the Research Excellence Framework (REF), an exercise which assesses the quality of academic research. Sixteen areas of our work were classed as generating world-leading research. The results showed that we're making a significant impact on the societies we live in.
We welcome UK and international students from many walks of life, including the various faith ministries, industry and business, government and public services. You’ll be able to research the aspects of practical theology most relevant to your life, vocation or profession and will gain practical theological knowledge, along with the skills to apply it.
Contact the Course Director Dr Andrew Todd for more information about this course.
Email: andrew.todd@aru.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1223 760080
You’ll normally need a Masters degree in a related subject, plus appropriate professional experience that will allow you to successfully complete the programme. If you do not have a Masters degree, we may still consider you for admission to the Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Research with the possibility of subsequent progression to the Professional Masters or Professional Doctorate provided you have at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) and appropriate research and professional experience.
We’ll carefully evaluate your academic and professional background and, where appropriate, invite you for interview.
You'll need a computer and reliable internet access to successfully engage with your course. Before starting the course, we recommend that you check our technical requirements for online learning.
International students
We welcome applications from international and EU students, and accept a range of international qualifications.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language, you'll need to make sure you meet our English language requirements for postgraduate courses.
Improving your English language skills
If you don't meet our English language requirements, we offer a range of courses which could help you achieve the level required for entry.
