Like all Master of Theology programs, this is a second theological degree (whether the first theological degree was a bachelors’ or masters’ degree), and so the academic expectations are naturally higher than for your first theological degree.
The MTh(Ed) is pitched at a level which reflects your ability to demonstrate these skills:
- Understand what is ‘going on’ in a topic, not just ‘what happened’ (= ‘getting beneath the surface’).
- Read, summarise and discuss quality texts and research which has been carried out up to a doctoral level.
- Critically evaluate alternative viewpoints, from the basis of an understanding of fundamental issues relating to the topic and the use of primary sources.
- Cope with contradictory and hostile interpretations.
- Formulate and express a defensible viewpoint on topics that have been researched.
- Make evaluative judgments with a high degree of confidence.
- Formulate questions of importance in a topic.
- Efficiently identify significant quality texts relating to the topic area and use them critically.
- Make full and efficient use of library facilities, as well as electronic and internet resources.
- Present written material in an appropriate format and following a recognised style guide.
- Write in a way in which points made can be logically defended.
[Adapted from material by John Roxborough. http://www.roxborogh.com/Research/doctorates.htm]
If this seems to be a daunting list, don’t despair! These are skills we will help you acquire and sharpen, as you bring diligence and discipline to the learning process.