University of Birmingham - Postgraduate Open Day
18 Mar 2026, 14:00
Birmingham
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Practical Theology Doctorate (Research)
- PhD
- 5 Years
- Part-time
- Postgraduate
- Edgbaston Campus
Course summary
Work with other professionals, practitioners and faith-based leaders from different backgrounds on a practical research degree related to your work. Examine how your guiding beliefs and values impact your professional, voluntary or ministerial practice.
The Practical Theology Doctorate offers a structured approach to research. You'll build on your professional experience and combine this with academic research. Conduct evidence-based doctoral research to enhance and enrich your day-to-day work.
The modern study of Practical Theology began in the 1960s right here at the University of Birmingham. Applicants from a wide variety of professions, including social work, charity leadership, education, ministry or counselling benefit from our wide-ranging expertise.
Join a varied research community, working with faith leaders and practitioners from many backgrounds.
Take part in seminars, workshops and a summer school. Meet national and international scholars.
Undertake part-time study alongside other commitments. The structured format of this course supports you to return to academia and gives you the tools for independent research.
Combine theory and practice to gain evidence-based insights for your work.
Entry requirements
We usually require a good 2:1 degree in a relevant discipline.
We're looking for candidates who show the potential for doctoral level study in their applications and can reflect on their own practice.
We welcome applications from:
Public sector professionals in health, education and social services
Active members of caring professions such as psychotherapy, counselling, nursing, social work, community development
Those involved in religious ministry in parish, congregational, or chaplaincy settings
People working in charities, non-governmental organisations, in the cultural industries, or in the arts
Those involved in industry or business wishing to deepen their understanding of the ethical and theological dimensions of their practice
We also look for an appropriate level of professional or voluntary experience in the area to be researched, often with a continuing role in that sector.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
Additional fee information
For more detailed information on available funding and fees for postgraduate courses please visit: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/fees-funding
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