Certificate of Higher Education in Theology

The Certificate of Higher Education in Theology (CertHE) is for people wanting to deepen their faith, take a gap year,  grow in discipleship, or step into longer courses. If you are a little nervous about study at university level, this lets you enter our supportive learning environment and grow in confidence. The CertHE also counts as a year of credit towards the BA (Hons) in Theology, giving you flexibility in your educational journey. With on-campus, online, full-time, part time and flexible routes available, the CertHE is normally studied over one year full-time or two to four years part-time.

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Length of Study

1 year full-time / 2 years part-time

University of Manchester

September 2026

On-campus or Online

£ 9,275 (Full-time, UK)

£9,883 (Full-time, Non-UK)

Part-time options are priced pro rata.

Methods of Assessment

 

We try to include a wide variety of assessment methods throughout our programmes. Types of formative (non-credit bearing) assessment include individual tutorials, on-site visits, group discussions, written and oral feedback on essays. Our Summative (credit-bearing) assessments include research essays, case studies, group projects, individual projects, placement assessment (portfolios, reflections), book reviews, and a limited number of module examinations.

Employment Outcomes

 

The CertHE in Theology provides a solid foundation for ministry. Past graduates have gone on to service in pastoral ministry or has equipped lay people in their local church and community.

The Youth Ministry pathway is suited for those who want to be equipped for Youth Work, but do not feel the desire to pursue a full degree for national recognition. Past graduates have gone into roles as church youth workers.

Teaching and Learning Methods

 

NTC offers small class sizes, with classes ranging from 5 to 35 students. Most classes run in a weekly format, and are complemented by intensive sessions in January and May. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars and class discussions, oral presentations, group work, individual tutorials, directed reading, case studies, individual supervision, and student-led seminars.

Students will receive a minimum of 120 credits while on this course.

Our CertHE programmes are identical to the first year for the BA (Hons) in Theology and the the other pathways we offer.

Biblical Studies Pathway

In this pathway, you’ll take more classes in specific books and genres of the Bible like OT Prophets, Psalms, and Paul’s Letters. You can opt to dive even deeper by taking Greek and/or Hebrew. There is no placement on this pathway. Details about required classes can be found at this link.

Practical Theology Pathway

Pursue additional practical theology classes in this pathway, fostering deep theological reflection within practical contexts. In the second year of this pathway, students will blend their academic studies with a practical placement. A diverse array of placement settings awaits, spanning from community projects to churches, chaplaincy to night-shelters, and missions to compassionate ministries.
Details about required classes and placement information can be found at this link.

Youth & Community Pathway

Our Youth and Community pathway is your lens into the intricate fabric of society, with a strong focus on social justice, mission, and understanding people. Past students have embarked on transformative placements in schools, youth centers, community projects, and beyond. Here’s what you can expect:
Details about required classes can be found at this link.

 
  • Four passes at a grade C or above in GCSE subjects or equivalent
  • If English is not your native language, you may be required to submit an English competency score through IELTS, TOEFL, or other equivalent exams. Undergraduate students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent.

If you don’t have the credentials for traditional entry, we can work with you. Please contact [email protected] for more details.

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