1. Introduction
AGST Alliance’s Master of Theology (Education) in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship program is designed to produce academically competent educational practitioners–leaders who demonstrate academic ability with competence for creative educational leadership, spiritual formation and discipleship in churches, seminaries and organisations.
Our MTh(Ed) and Postgrad Dip Ed are theology programs in education, so we work hard to integrate theological and educational elements into all the components of the program (rather than having separate theology and education modules). The programs are non-residential, modular and part-time
- No need for major ministry and family upheavals for several years.
- Studies are earthed in students’ current social and church settings.
- Some flexibility is possible.
| The Postgraduate Diploma in Education, Spiritual Formation and Discipleship is for those who wish to complete the coursework for the MTh(Ed) program but not the practicum/thesis/major papers. |
See a comparison of our education programs [PostGrad Dip(Ed), MTh(Ed), EdD and PhD(Ed)]
2. Who for?
Our MTh(Ed)/Postgrad Dip Ed programs are likely to suit leaders who are
- giving educational leadership in their church, with discipling/equipping responsibilities.
- CE/discipleship staff member/adviser for their denomination
- teaching CE/discipleship/spiritual formation courses in a seminary.
- leading a Christian organisation which mobilises Christians in ministry/mission.
- looking for a sabbatical focus and/or ministry enrichment.
3. Entry requirements
Applicants for the MTh(Ed)/Post Grad Dip Ed need to have:
- a first theological degree of a suitable academic level (usually MDiv or its equivalent).
- English language proficiency: at least IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 550 (Computer-based score 213; Internet-based score 80).
- some practical experience in leadership in Christian education, spiritual formation and discipleship.
- Secular qualifications in education will be a bonus.
Participants may live in countries other than those represented by AGST Alliance.
| Normally students will be accepted into AGST Alliance programs on the basis of the stated prerequisite qualifications. However, applicants who do not meet the stated entry requirements may be considered for this program if their general education, scholarship, training and experience are deemed suitable, and if they are deemed as well qualified as those who are able to satisfy the normal entrance requirements. Applications based on equivalency will be considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account a portfolio of work/ministry experience, publications and other relevant factors. |
4. Program components
Our AGST Alliance MTh(EdD) is a 30 credits program, with these components:
- Coursework – 18 credits
- Practicum – 3 credits
- Research skills workshop – 1 credit
- Thesis /Educational Project – 8 credits
A. Coursework (18 credits)
Participants complete modules for 18 credits:
- 3 core modules @3 credits each 9 credits
- 3 interest-specific modules @3 credits each 9 credits
Three-credit modules span about three to four months. Each module involves pre-campus preparation, a 5-7 day on-campus session, and post-campus assignment activities.
B. Practicum (3 credits)
Personalised field-based training helps you develop and/or sharpen skills needed by a competent educational facilitator in a Christian faith community setting. A mentor-coach guides you through the practicum to help you evaluate and reflect theologically and educationally on the dynamics of the process.
C. Research skills workshop (1 credit)
This workshop helps mature-age students feel less daunted. The workshop is spread over several modules and before the thesis/project phase of the program. It is designed:
– To hone your reading and writing skills
– To introduce you to research methods and resources
– To help you use library and internet facilities well.
D. Thesis/ educational project (8 credits)
The thesis/educational project shows that you can competently focus and integrate aspects of the program with your interests and planned vocation. It demonstrates your ability to process course content and move beyond it. The thesis/educational project will probably require at least 6-8 months’ work after you complete the modules. A supervisor will be with you through the process.
Note: Instead of a thesis/educational project, participants may request to complete 4 extra credits of modules and a 4-credit educational project. Do not choose this option if you’re planning to proceed with further higher-level studies.
5. Module topics
Core Modules (9 credits):
Education, Spiritual Formation, and Discipleship (3 credits)
This module is designed to enable leaders in Christian ministries to reflect on spiritual growth in a time of fluidity and change. In this module, we will examine the underlying principles of Christian education, spiritual formation, and discipleship process. We will evaluate the inner life of educators, spiritual formation communities and their missional aspects. We will also look at pedagogy in faith communities in this digital interconnected world.
Educational Theories and Instructional Design (3 credits)
This module explores educational psychology and teaching-learning theories in context of educating the Christian faith communities. The strengths and weaknesses of a wide range of contemporary teaching-learning strategies are discussed. Topics include relational dynamics in the teaching-learning process, teaching methodologies, communicative tools, and collaboration for empowerment.
Curriculum Design and Development (3 credits)
This module highlights the essence of what it means to be a community of God’s people; and discusses the trends, principles, and procedures of an effective curriculum to educate God’s people in the faith. The discussions cover the biblical, historical, and social traditions that influence the believers’ expressions of faith in worship and congregational life.
Interest-specific Modules (9 credits)
There are three “interest-specific” modules to provide the students with space to study the areas of interest either class-based, as guided study, or credit transfer. The AGST Alliance criteria apply, and modules that are cross-credited must have proof of a transcript.
6. Module Dates
These dates may be amended, subject to the availability of the module facilitators and campus facilities.
2024 Program Schedule across all programs here.
7. Academic expectations
8. Assessment Criteria
9. Fees & costs
10. Frequently Asked Questions
11. Application Procedures
Download and submit these application papers to apply (right-click > “save link as” to save):
• Application form (correct as at 6 March 2020)
• Commendation form (2 commendations required)
• Student Support Memorandum of Understanding guidelines and form
If you prefer to have a set of application papers to be posted to you, please email us. Make sure you include your full postal address.
We prefer that initially you email your application papers to us, in soft-copy format (i.e. as e-documents). When scanning transcripts, photos, etc., please set the resolution to standard/medium, so that files are not too large. As we process your application, we may request hard-copy (i.e. paper) copies of items.
12. Contact
For further questions about this program:
Dr Rosalind Lim-Tan
Education Programs Director
Email: edudirector@agstalliance.org