‘Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…’ Romans 12:2
The Doctor of Theology and Ministry (DThM) is an exciting programme of Durham University run in collaboration between the Department of Theology and Religion and Cranmer Hall. It is for anyone interested in pursuing further study and research at the interface of theology and the practice of ministry and mission.
The Durham DThM consists of two phases: (1) a taught phase and (2) a research phase, which culminates in the writing of a doctoral thesis of 70,000 words. The DThM can be taken as a 6 year part-time or as a 3 year full time programme. A unique feature of the programme are the two residential schools each academic year, held at St John’s College, Durham. These week-long schools (Monday to Friday) provide the context for the taught modules in the first year, as well as featuring lectures and workshops by visiting speakers and specialists, a forum for students to present and share work in progress, opportunities to connect with faculty and for peer support and encouragement, and shared worship.
Altogether the DThM programme represents a community of research which is focussed on the integration of theology and ministry. The programme attracts a significant number of students from overseas and a variety of denominations. It provides a rich and lively student experience in which everyone involved is passionate about mission and ministry. At present there are about 40 people in the programme.
The DThM can also be an avenue of further study and vocational development for those looking to study as part of training for ordained ministry and who already have an MA in Theology or a related discipline. While studying the DThM, ordinands are fully integrated into the Cranmer Hall community. They take formation modules throughout the three years from the BA in Theology and Ministry Programme, as well as participating fully in placements and mission study blocks, and in the shared rhythms of worship and social life. The DThM is a programme well-suited to those seeking formation as pastor-scholars / priest-theologians (including Anglican ordinands who may have been identified at selection as potential theological educators).
Glen Packiam, Associate Senior Pastor, New Life Church; Lead Pastor, New Life Downtown, Colorado Springs writes about his student experience of the DThM
“I chose the DThM at Durham not only because of Durham’s prestige and theological legacy, but also because of the program’s emphasis on making an original contribution to the field through an inter-disciplinary approach with practical ministry outcomes. Learning to combine sociological research with theological reflection is making me not only a better scholar, but also a better pastor. Furthermore, the design of the DThM, with its part-time and long-distance option, fits the demands of my life in full-time vocational ministry in America. Finally, the other ministry leaders and practitioners in the program are an amazing community, providing friendship and support along the way. I consistently recommend the DThM at Durham to all the research-loving, academically-inclined, ministry professionals I know!” – Glen Packiam
Further details can be found on the Department of Theology and Religion website: https://www.dur.ac.uk/theology.religion/postgrad/researchdegrees/dthm/
For informal enquiries please contact Dr Sam Tranter, samuel.tranter@durham.ac.uk for applications please contact 0191 3343929 or email: theo.pgresearchadmissions@durham.ac.uk