Interested in studying theology?
- Alistair Smith
- Sep 3
- 2 min read
Might you be interested in doing a course in Christian theology sometime, to learn more than is possible just from church sermons and group studies? If so, read on.
Many Anglican theological colleges provide teaching not only for future vicars (ordinands) and lay readers, but also for independent students, who wish to study theology (non-residentially) on a more open-ended basis. A wide variety of student pathways and options are available, including courses ranging from introductory to accredited degree level, part-time or full-time, by daytime or evening classes/lectures, in-person or online. Many course modules are shared across ordinands, trainee lay readers and independent students.
After an earlier stint at St Mellitus College in London, I joined St Augustine’s College last September as a part-time independent student and am really enjoying studying within that community. My classes this first year have been mainly fortnightly daytime classes at the beautiful Malling Abbey campus in Kent. The students come from a very wide range of backgrounds.
If you think study as an independent student at a theological college might be for you, you mind find it helpful next to go to one or two open days or evenings at different colleges. Many colleges have such open or ‘taster’ days/ evenings when you can visit them, speak with staff and students, and maybe sit in on classes/ lectures, to help you decide whether or not to apply for a place, now or in the future. (The same applies for anyone considering ordination or lay reader training, as one aspect of a bigger process.)
If you’re interested, please feel free to get in touch with me to chat about possibilities.
Alistair Smith
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