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LST Online Degrees

Have you ever wondered where the theology you have come to believe comes from and how it has been constructed? 

Have you wanted to integrate your understanding of Biblical hermeneutics with a study of theological method that helps you critically engage with the formulation of theology? 

In an age of theological uncertainty, the MA in Integrative Theology (MAiTh) does not teach you theology so much as it teaches you how theology develops through an intricate interplay of different sources. In addition to a methodological core, the MAiTh then offers you a choice of options in which you will engage in application of theological method to biblical studies, theology, practical theology, music and the arts, counselling and engagement in the public sphere.

Various influences within postmodern society have resulted in the fragmentation of the major disciplines within and around Christian Theology. LST’s MAiTh emphasises integration of these disciplines through its ground-breaking and unique integrative theological method. This establishes a holistic approach to Christian Theology with practical implications for life in society and Christian discipleship. 

The MAiTh’s integrative theological method is thoroughly and deliberately Evangelical as it integrates five primary sources of knowledge. It prioritises the Bible (Scripture), but also recognises the historical construction of Christian belief (tradition), the importance of considered, rational and critical thought (reason) the role of experience in the lives of believers (experience) and the witness of the Church as it preaches the gospel and makes disciples (church in community). This method allows each of these sources to enrich and inform the other in various imaginative and creative ways.

Our vision is that graduates of the programme will be set on a path toward a holistic and integrated theological approach, as they will be empowered to integrate theological method with other disciplines, including their own experiences and professions. This is not just another MA! 

To summarise, the MAiTh’s integrative theological method integrates disciplines which have been separated, integrates five primary sources of knowledge - Scripture, tradition, reason, experience and church in community and provides for a deep impact on the world of ideas and consequently on the global nature of discipleship and of Christian presence in all facets of society.

This programme is for you if:

  • You are a theology graduate seeking an innovative and flexible Masters-level qualification in theology;
  • You are involved in ministry and are looking for a path of lifelong learning that will enhance your service, deepen your understanding of theological method and broaden your horizon;
  • You have never studied Theology but wish to integrate your professional and personal interests with theological understanding.

MODES OF STUDY

There is no need to leave your occupation, no need to leave your country. The MAiTh offers you the choice of residential delivery* or online learning through LSTOnline's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). 

Thanks to a highly flexible set of delivery options, the MAiTh will open up the possibility of obtaining a postgraduate degree in Theology to those who may have never considered it, or who have been practically unable to do so. You can also choose full-time or part-time study modes* in order to fit around your existing commitments and aspirations. (*modes of delivery are subject to enrolment).

  • Full-time residential learning. You will live in London and experience a vibrant learning and community life on the LST campus, engaging in classroom activities, seminars and personal interaction with your peers and tutors. You will also have access to both LST’s library - which is among the largest evangelical theological library in Europe - and to LST’s Virtual Learning Environment.
  • Part-time residential learning. If you live and work in the London area, you can travel to the LST campus once a week to attend seminars and then continue your studies during the week through LST’s VLE.
  • Online Education. If you cannot leave your place of residence, your job or ministry commitments, you may take the entire MAiTh online through LST Online with no residency requirements whatsoever. LST’s VLE has been designed to provide you with a rich blend of learning resources and participatory activities for a great student experience.

MAITH DEGREE STRUCTURE - WHAT YOU WILL STUDY

The MAiTh consists of two core modules, a set of optional modules and a final dissertation. 

The first core module will introduce you to theological method, and the second will demonstrate how integrative theological method can be applied to the person and work of Jesus Christ. Two options can be chosen from the list of different modules (see below) that correspond to the specialist pathways. Your dissertation will be also undertaken in your chosen specialism.

If you do not wish to complete the entire MAiTh, you can choose to study for a Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits) or Postgraduate Diploma Integrative Theology (120 credits). Depending on your delivery mode (residential, eLearning, part-time or full-time) the order in which you study the modules may vary.

SPECIALIST PATHWAYS AND THE OPTIONS

The MAiTh offers a rich variety of options with specialist pathways from which you can choose.  The pathways cover a wide range of disciplines, with the content of each one having been designed to cohere with the overall integrative approach of the programme.

You have the choice to exit with a named degree in a chosen specialism - e.g. MA Integrative Theology (Christian Worship Studies) – but to achieve this, both options in that pathway (i.e. Christian Worship Studies) must be taken together, and the dissertation must address a topic in that area too. It is important to note that a specialist qualification can only be obtained if studying for the MA degree.

If you choose not to specialise, or are taking the PG Certificate/ PG Diploma, you can choose options from multiple pathways, which would result in you achieving a general qualification with a PG Cert./ PG Dip./ MA Integrative Theology.

Click here for information about the Pathways.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

In normal circumstances students will be required to have at least a UK BA Honours degree at 2:1 level (or equivalent) as well as the necessary English language ability. A qualification in Theology is not required, although restrictions apply to language-based modules. 

- See more at: https://lstonline.ac.uk/vle/ma-integrative-theology-maith