Initial ministerial training

Northern College was originally founded to provide education leading to ordination for ministers of word and sacrament, and this is still a considerable element of our work.  All of our learning integrates academic work with placement experience.

Candidates for full-time ministry will normally study for four years, completing either the B.Th or a foundation degree plus the MA.  Those who already have a theological qualification may begin with the MA or a research programme, often supplemented by courses particularly geared to preparation for ministry. Either programme usually involves two days in college each week, with occasional ‘block weeks’, and church and community placements in the candidate’s home area.

Candidates for part-time ministry usually study on the FdA.  This involves four residential weekends a year plus weeknight sessions or e-learning, and a placement in the student’s home area.

We work with candidates to create flexible programmes that are suitable to their needs, and wherever possible enable them to relate to an ecumenical peer group.

Training for church-related community work

This is normally a four-year training programme, requiring attendance at 6 extended weekends (Friday-Tuesday) a year and 18 hours a week placement time.  This leads to the FdA and a community work qualification recognised by the English Standards Board.

Continuing Ministerial education

Many of our MA courses are taken by serving ministers, enabling them to develop their particular skills and interests in ministry.  Some take the full MA programme, others take stand-alone courses, without working for a qualification.

There are modules available for those involved in chaplaincy work, supervision and consultancy, mission and evangelism, inter-faith work, worship and spirituality and many others. Staff of Northern College are also involved from time to time in teaching on EM2 weekends, and some of these take place at Luther King House.

Most years at least some members of our staff contribute to synod summer schools. Some ministers enrol on our research programme, and some are able to take advantage of the Doctorate in Practical Theology offered by the University of Manchester.

Courses for lay people

Staff at Northern College work with synod Training Officers (especially in neighbouring synods) to help develop and deliver training in worship and preaching, pastoral care, interfaith issues, and community development work.  John Campbell is part of the team contributing material for the Vision4Life programme.