Academic Expectations: Master of Theology (Theology)/ Postgraduate Diploma in Theology

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(Theol) 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.