for rigorous postgraduate level study in a supportive community of discussion, debate and mutual learning where you will learn advanced skills of discernment, reflexivity and reflection on practice.
Independent students can study for awards on flexible pathways to suit a range of circumstances. These programmes are well-suited to curates, continuing ministerial development and lay ministers.
Pathways are flexible so you can tailor the course to your particular ministry and learning and formational needs.
These pathways are validated through Common Awards at Durham University.
This course has offered me a great space to broaden my understanding of my faith and how I live that out in the world. I’ve enjoyed good collegiality with others on the course as we journey together. The lecturers are supportive and responsive to the questions and challenges I’ve had while grappling with tricky subjects.
Ella, an independent MA student
Dr Beth Dodd introduces the Postgraduate Programmes in Theology, Ministry and Mission. Click on image at right to view video.
All students study advanced skills in theological reflection and research methods. Other module options include modern theology, advanced biblical studies, mission and ecclesiology, worship and liturgy, an extended placement, leadership and an independent learning project.
Programmes offer scope to develop areas of interest within and between modules. MA students can cultivate a specialism and develop independent research skills through the dissertation.
I have taught in theological education since 2012, taking various roles across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes as a programme leader and director of studies. I teach Christian doctrine and specialise in theology, arts and culture. A child of the manse and daughter of the Lake District fells, the stomping ground of Wordsworth and Coleridge, I bring a poetic sensibility to my writing, which focuses on what poetry can teach us about the ‘grammar’ of Christian theology and the experience and practice of Christian faith. I have a passion for retrieving neglected or devalued ideas, recovering the beauty that once made them powerful and reimagining them for a contemporary context. Previous publications focussed on a Christian theology of innocence while my forthcoming book takes a step beyond narrative theology and theodramatic theory to explore the lyric voice in Christian theology. I have published on spoken word artists such as Kae Tempest and Tony Walsh alongside religious poets like John Clare, George Herbert and Thomas Traherne.
As well as programme leader for postgraduate programmes in theology, ministry and mission at Sarum College, I am also a research associate for the Oxford Centre for Religion and Culture.
I am available to supervise research projects and offer teaching sessions, study days and retreats in the areas of Christian doctrine, theology, arts and culture and theological reflection.
This course has given me space to broaden my understanding of my faith and how I live that out in the world. I’ve enjoyed warm collegiality with fellow students as we journey together. The lecturers are supportive and responsive to the questions and challenges I’ve had while grappling with tricky subjects.
– Ella (independent MA student)
Postgraduate study in Theology Ministry and Mission includes three options:
Postgraduate Certificate [60 credits]
Postgraduate Diploma [120 credits]
Masters Degree [180 credits].
All programmes are validated through Common Awards at the University of Durham.
Overview of TMM MA Pathways (indicative 2025-26 academic year)
Normally, those who have successfully completed a BA degree with a 2:1or higher, or an equivalent qualification, in a relevant subject. It recommended that students have a good degree (or other Level 6 qualification, such as a Graduate Diploma) in theology. Graduates in other disciplines with a 2:1or higher, with experience of Theology or Religious Studies to at least FHEQ Level 4 (undergraduate Certificate level, awarded with credit or distinction, or with an overall mark of at least 60%) may also be admitted to the programme.
However, especially for mature students, prior professional experience will be taken into account as well as educational qualifications, particularly for those actively engaged in a church based context. Please contact us to discuss this further, edodd@sarum.ac.uk
Enquiries are welcome for an Autumn 2026 start.
Sarum College offers flexible, part-time study with personal attention so that every student thrives, working to fit alongside other personal and professional responsibilities.
Independent students join a mixed learning community of people either active in or training for public ministry. There is regular online interaction with tutors and peers.
This study programme suits people who are happy to learn online in addition to Saturday teaching days. Weekly seminars offer regular contact and teaching support.
The programme emphasis is on developing skills of reflection and practice alongside academic rigour, reflecting on your ministry and your local church context.
You will enjoy the many resources of Sarum College in the wonderful setting of Cathedral Close in Salisbury.
Lovely food cooked and served on site, and the Common Room provides a bar and informal space for continued conversation into the evening.
Teaching rooms combine historic architecture with high tech classroom resources for digital presentations and live-streamed events. The library is well-stocked with access to a large catalogue of books and journals, and you can make use of it when you like. Some use the library outside of residential periods if they are passing for work or as a study day.
Staff provide you with pastoral and academic support when at college or at home, as well as teaching on the modules. Other experts supplement the teaching programme with specialist knowledge as required.
Fees will differ according to the speed at which you take modules and the pathway you follow. Please contact us to discuss.
