Overview
Enhance your knowledge in applying theology to the real-world with a Master's in Practical Theology. Designed for those who want to explore how faith can make a transformative impact in today’s world, this course bridges theory and practice, combining rigorous theological scholarship with pastoral application to help you engage meaningfully with contemporary issues of justice, peace, and community.
Ideal for those active in church life, Christian leadership, chaplaincy, or religious education, this course will equip you with the skills to work confidently with faith and community organisations. You'll deepen your understanding of Christian theology whilst developing advanced research, communication, and reflective practice that will enhance your professional and academic growth.
What you’ll learn
- Delve into advanced study of the Bible and how this applies to the teachings of modern life.
- Develop a deep understanding of religious norms and critically explore spirituality and religious experience.
- Apply theological and pastoral insights across interdisciplinary ways of working and digital media.
- Enhance your employability through collaboration with faith, education, and community leaders.
- Progress towards further research or leadership roles with expert academic and pastoral support.
Located in the spiritual heart of England, Canterbury Christ Church University provides an enriching environment for theological study, supported by experienced theologians, pastoral practitioners, and a vibrant chaplaincy team.
Through critical engagement with faith in public life, you’ll develop the tools to apply theology to modern challenges and promote inclusivity, sustainability, and compassion within your community and profession.
The MA Practical Theology is about doing Theology in the real world.Dr Ralph Norman, Principal Lecturer in Theology
Why study at CCCU?
Entry requirements
A 2:2 honours degree or above in a relevant discipline.
We will also consider applications from those with other qualifications, those returning to education or with a relevant background. Do get in touch if you have any questions; your application will be considered on an individual basis.
For more information on the IELTS (International English language Testing System) requirements for this course, please click here to visit our dedicated IELTS web page.
Module information
Core/optional modules
*Modules subject to approval
How you’ll learn
Your degree will offer you a challenging and stimulating course that encourages critical thinking and lively debate. Your lecturers will support, nurture and challenge you as you develop as an independent thinker. All teaching will on our Canterbury campus, minutes away from Canterbury Cathedral.
You will be expected to be on campus 1-2 days a week for lectures, seminars and workshops. In addition, you will study independently for up to 20 hours per week.
You will be taught by a team of experienced lecturers, all researching and publishing in their fields, with expertise in topics such as practical theology, faith relations, applied ethics and spiritual care. The core team includes:
- Dr Maria Diemling, Reader in Jewish-Christian Relations
- Dr Ivan Khovacs, Senior Lecturer in Practical Theology
- Dr Ralph Norman, Principal Lecturer in Christian Theology
- Dr Simon Wilson, Senior Lecturer in Spirituality
I have really enjoyed the rigour and applicability of my studies. Academic staff promote open and honest engagement where freedom of expression is safeguarded, and the course combines scholarly rigour with a mind toward pastoral care in a way that prioritises employability.Daniel RandallGraduate
How you’ll be assessed
Most modules are assessed by coursework equivalent to 4,000 words. Assessment is varied and includes research essays, critical reflections and presentations. The dissertation module is assessed by a total of an 8,000-research essay on a topic of your choice and an oral discussion of your work.
Your future career
If you are someone who actively participates in church life, works in Christian leadership, or teaches Religious Education and want to develop your subject knowledge and skills, then this course is for you. It will develop your ability to work with faith and community-facing organisations and deepen your understanding of Christian theology. It will also prepare you for further research.
Our students have gone on to be:
- Interfaith advisors
- Prison chaplains
- Youth workers
- RE teachers
- Pastors and priests.
The way that this Masters allowed me to engage with faith and spirituality in an academic context was vital in exploring my vocation to Christian ministry, and has been a great doorway into what will come to be the rest of my career. Taking the time to explore things in this way has taught me not just how to think critically about faith matters, but how to apply theology to real world situations.DarcyPastoral Apprentice, Canterbury Baptist Church
Fees
Tuition Fees for 2026/27 have not yet been finalised. These course web pages will be updated with Tuition Fee information once they have been agreed.
- Read advice about funding your degree
- See information about the financial support available for postgraduate studies
- If you would like information about paying your fees, please contact accounts.receivable@canterbury.ac.uk
- For specific fee queries, please contact fees@canterbury.ac.uk
Industry links
The course offers a close partnership with the University Chaplaincy team and links with neighbouring faith communities, alongside opportunities to volunteer with faith and non-profit organisations, and to engage with regular guest speakers.
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Duration:
1 yearLocation(s):
Canterbury