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School leaver opportunities in theology |
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New pathways are opening up for Theological Studies in distance education mode, offered through the Sandhurst Diocese in partnership with The Broken Bay Institute (BBI), now a leading provider of Theological Education in distance education mode in Australia and beyond. From 2010, The Broken Bay Institute will be delivering theological programs that are accredited through The University of Newcastle (UON). New options are emerging for studies leading to university diploma and degrees in Theology and related subjects. These include possibilities for combining studies in Theology and other university disciplines. Double degrees are also an option. These pathways are among those available to your school leavers, who may still be considering future options.
Teachers of Units 3 and 4 in VCE Religion & Society or Texts & Traditions, regularly encounter students asking about ways in which they may continue to explore themes in; Theology, Biblical Studies, Spirituality, Pastoral Ministry, the Christian story and ways in which faith, culture and life interact. Some seek ways to develop and use their knowledge and understanding for the sake of others. For school leavers who have served as student leaders, in liturgy teams, peer support programs and Social Justice activities, Theology related studies may help some students find direction for desires to continue Christian service and leadership.
BBI – UON Undergraduate Diploma of Theology and Bachelor of Theology degrees are available as well as postgraduate awards with optional specialisations in:
* Christian Spirituality
* Liturgical Studies
* Youth and Campus Ministry
* Pastoral Ministry
* Mission and Culture
* Religious Education
Theology related units may also be incorporated with online university courses leading to a range of vocational pathways. For example, it is interesting to consider ways in which a unit such as the Social Teaching of the Church may compliment studies in healthcare, social work, business and so on.
Students may begin studies with the Sandhurst Diocese – BBI cohort in 2010 or 2011.
The 2010 cohort program is;
Semester 1 Foundations of Liturgical Practice
(School leavers may join the cohort for this unit).
Semester 2 Community-in-Mission: A Contemporary Theology of the Church
(Faith, Revelation & Theology is a pre – requisite for this unit, which school leavers may take supported by a mentor in 2010 or with the cohort in 2011)
It is envisaged that the core subjects Biblical Studies – Foundations and Faith, Revelation and Theology (an introduction to Theology) will be offered as cohort units again in 2011. Students may extra units in addition to the ‘cohort’ units listed above.
How does it work?
Units are studied at home, using course materials comprising a Study Guide and Book of Readings, with a BBI tutor accessible via email. Sandhurst – BBI cohort participants are also supported by a weekend seminar led by a BBI lecturer and monthly meetings with a cluster group and mentor who may be consulted through the unit.
* Students receive a package with course booklet and readings covering course requirements. A BBI – UON tutor, accessible via email, is assigned.
* A weekend seminar launches the unit and puts students in touch with fellow students and a Sandhurst mentor.
* Local or regional cluster groups (6-8 people) meet each month, often over a meal, with a support person or mentor. Cluster groups may also be formed by like-minded friends.
Costs
BBI – UON distance education students have access to the usual sources of funding for university studies, including HECS and scholarships.
To find out more?
Visit www.newcastle.edu.au/program/12229.html for information on the Diploma of Theology or www.newcastle.edu.au/program/11703.html for the Bachelor of Theology Program. Units listed on the website are available in distance mode. To discuss your options further contact BBI’s Registrar, Mrs Cheryl Martin on 02 9847 0540 or by email
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Lyn may also be contacted at
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, or on 5441 2544.
Whilst the programs described above provide educational pathways that lead to qualifications and career options, they also offer more than this. The chance to study Theology, and to share the experience with others, has significant potential to support students in their lifelong journey of faith and spiritual growth.
I warmly invite you to consider making known to students the opportunities available for study through BBI – UON, as a viable choice of study for vocational pathways and to enhance and support personal faith journeys.
In friendship and peace,
Sincerely,
Lyn Breen
Coordinator, Adult Faith Education Sandhurst |
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