Program Overview

Theological Studies with Philosophy CertHE

Overview

The Theological Studies with Philosophy CertHE program is a four-year undergraduate degree that explores human society through the lens of theology and philosophy. The program is run according to the Catholic magisterium and covers topics such as canon law, metaphysics, anthropology, prophets, personal and social ethics, ecumenism and interfaith, and penance and anointing.

A Unique Student Experience

Students will study at both St Mary's and Allen Hall Seminary, joining the only UK theology and philosophy course that allows learning alongside seminarians. Additionally, students can earn an Ecclesiastical degree, the Sacred Baccalaureate in Theology (STB), through Mater Ecclesiae College.

Course Content

The program includes a range of modules, including:

• Introduction to philosophy and logic
• History of philosophy 1: ancient and classical
• Natural theology
• History of philosophy 3: modern
• Political philosophy
• Philosophical anthropology
• Cosmology
• History of philosophy 2: medieval to modern
• Aquinas and the virtues
• Augustine and Late Antiquity
• Metaphysics
• Epistemology
• Philosophical ethics
• Aesthetics
• Church History
• Johannine writings 1 and 2
• Paul and the Catholic epistles 1 and 2
• Introduction to Sacraments
• Introduction to liturgy 1 and 2
• Fundamentals of systematic theology
• Theology and the Eucharist
• God in Christ
• Canon law 1, 2, and 3
• Fundamental moral theology 1 and 2
• Church history 3: Reformation to French Revolution
• Prophets
• Theological anthropology
• Marriage and family life
• Ecclesiology and mariology
• Personal ethics
• Social ethics
• Ecumenism and interfaith
• Theology of orders
• Penance and Anointing
• Extended essay

Teaching Methods

The program is taught through a combination of lectures and seminars, with 38% of contact time and 62% of independent study.

Assessment Methods

Assessments include coursework essays, written exams, and oral exams.

Feedback

Feedback is provided within 15 working days, adhering to the university's policy.

Entry Requirements

• Standard offer: 120 UCAS points
• Contextual offer: 96 UCAS points
• International students: check country-specific pages for equivalents
• English language requirements: IELTS score of 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any section (or equivalent)
• Familiarity with Catholicism: some familiarity with the Catholic faith is required
• Student Visa: this course is not suitable for international applicants who require student route sponsorship

Fees and Funding

• Tuition fees: £9,535 (home), £17,100 (international)
• Additional costs: may be incurred depending on optional modules chosen and other projects undertaken
• Scholarships: available to undergraduate students
• Living costs: a guide to living costs is available from the Student Funding Team

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Theological Studies with Philosophy CertHE program can pursue careers in chaplaincy, religious organisations, charities, research, education, and more. The program develops key transferable skills, including problem-solving, communication, and reflection.