Theology and Mission (Children, Youth and Family Ministry)

This innovative programme offers a sound foundation in theology and biblical studies alongside practical instruction and experience in mission and ministry with children, youth and families. It can be studied either on-campus or online. Delivered by Cliff College, this programme leads to a qualification awarded by the University of Manchester.

All students will study a range of core subjects to cover learning in the areas of Bible, Christian Theology and Missional Practice among Children, Youth and Families, with a progression through the levels from underlying knowledge and general familiarity with the subject matter to systematic and critical understanding that enables students to participate and communicate effectively and confidently in theology and mission. Each year will include a Mission Placement for practice-based learning appropriate to the level, which is integral to the integrated approach embodied in this programme. In addition to core units in each year, students will be able to choose optional units that extend their learning in their areas of interest. This specialised pathway sits alongside the general Theology and Ministry programme, as well as another specialised pathway for Ministry Among Older People (CertHE only).

Teaching is delivered during intensive teaching weeks (8 per academic year for full-time students; 4 per academic year for part-time students). Each student will work with their personal tutor to schedule other learning activities – including group seminars and tutorials – around the intensive teaching weeks, developing an integrated individual learning plan.

This programme is offered in dual delivery mode, giving students the flexibility to study either onsite or online (distance learning option). In this innovative programme, on-campus and distance students attend scheduled classes together and at the same time using video conferencing tools. In addition, all students will benefit from a range of online learning resources, to complement and enhance the classroom experience. Whether living on campus or studying from a distance, students will have opportunities to participate in the community life of the College, joining in prayer and worship times as well as social activities. On-campus students will need to be physically present at Cliff College for all scheduled teaching. It is expected that most full-time students choosing this route will live at the College, or nearby. Part-time on-campus students may live further afield within the UK, but will be required to be present onsite for scheduled teaching weeks. Students who choose the distance learning option may choose to attend one or more of the scheduled teaching weeks in person at the College, with the agreement of their personal tutor.

Course Modules

Core modules taken by all students throughout the programme cover the key areas of the Bible, Christian theology and missional practice. For the Children, Youth and Family Ministry pathway, a series of specialised units are also required as core. Units include:

YEAR ONE
Introduction to the Bible; Introduction to World Christianity; Christian Theology in Outline; Discipleship and Spirituality; Evangelism and Christian Mission; Children, Youth and Family Ministry; Mission Placement

YEAR TWO
Biblical Theology of Mission; Person and Work of Christ; Major World Faiths and Christian Mission; Faith and Spirituality for Children; Youth and Families; Mission Placement

YEAR THREE
Major Project; Mission Placement; Holy Spirit and Spiritual Gifts; The New Testament and Christian Hope; Intergeneration Church for Children, Youth and Families

In addition to core modules, options in Year Two and Year Three provide students with an opportunity to develop their own interests. Optional modules include: Preaching in Context; The Pilgrim Church; Theology and Mission in a Digital Age; Bible, Church and the Margins; and Leading and Pioneering in the Emerging Church.