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Courses

MTh in Theological Ethics

Apply

Online

Full-time (one year) and Part-time (up to the three years)

The MTh is a specialised, advanced study Master’s degree in the area of Theological Ethics. The degree permits pathways of specialization in theological studies, ethics, and applied theology. It is intended to bring students to the point where they can consider embarking upon doctoral research. The course is also particularly tailored to provide further training and ongoing development for ministers or can function as a self-contained and satisfying course of study in its own right.

Level 7 Postgraduate Degree
180 CATS Points
4 Taught Modules + Dissertation, or
3 Taught Modules + Extended Dissertation

Duration:
1 Year Full Time
3 Years Part Time

Download Programme Specification

Please email any enquiries to dennis.greeson@biblemesh.com

Applications are open for Autumn 2025.

Programme Structure and Modules

The programme allows students to gain advanced theological knowledge of Christian ethics, including historical frameworks and contemporary approaches to ethical issues. The Diploma is available for those who complete the teaching modules without the dissertation.

Ethics in the Christian Tradition

This module introduces students to key ethical traditions in the history of the Christian church. It explores the nature and task of theological ethics, the foundations of Christian moral reasoning, and the relationship between ethics and Christian theology. Particular attention is given to the themes of virtue, justice, human dignity as creatures made imago dei, as they have developed across specific historical and cultural contexts.

Theological Anthropology

This module introduces students to key categories and theological developments in the Christian tradition for understanding what means to be human. Students examine the exegetical foundations and historical-theological articulations of the doctrine of humanity in order to explore Christian perspectives on human nature and constitution, natural rights and human dignity, sexuality and human identity, and ethical implications of human agency and volition.

Divine Revelation and Moral Reasoning

This modules introduces students to relationship between God’s self-revelation in Scripture and the task of moral reasoning on what is normative or wise for the pursuit of godly virtue and justice. It explores the relationship between reason and revelation, with particular attention to the natural law tradition, biblical ethics, and the know of God’s moral norms. Students give particular attention to moral discourse in the Reformed tradition and problems raised by post-Kantian epistemology.

Contemporary Issues in Social Ethics

This module explores particular issues for Christian social ethics in a post-Christian context, including secularism, post-liberal theories of justice, critical theories, and alternative spiritualities. Students examine the place of Christian witness in the public square as they give particular attention to religious liberty, pluralism, identity, and the church in its cultural context.

Dissertation

The feedback on essays and other written work will have prepared students to nurture their critical research and writing skills in preparation for the 14,000-16,000 word capstone dissertation. In this module students will have freedom to write on an area of their own special interest in theological ethics with supervision from the faculty.

Extended Dissertation

This module offers students the opportunity to conduct advanced research and writing in a chosen topic, under a qualified supervisor, in a capstone dissertation of 22,000-24,000 words. It aims to develop skills in sustaining a more extended argument and scope of research, and is especially designed for those intending to advance to doctoral degrees. Students complete 1 section of the Extended Dissertation (2 semesters) and 3 taught modules in lieu of the standard requirement of 4 taught modules and dissertation.

Format and Schedule

Full Time (1 Year)

  • Semester One: 2 modules

  • Semester Two: 2 modules (or 1 module + Extended Dissertation part 1)

  • Semester Three: Dissertation (or Extended Dissertation part 2).

Part Time (up to 3 Years)

  • Four modules across four semesters + Dissertation, OR

  • Three modules across four semesters + Extended Dissertation

Modules are offered each Autumn, Spring, and Summer Semester. Semesters are 12 weeks, during which students complete the module requirements fully online, with reading seminars and online events with faculty and classmates.

Students are inducted into the program at the start of the Autumn and Spring semesters. All applications are due by the following deadlines each year:

Autumn Semester Start - 31 August

Spring Semester Start - 31 December

  • Curriculum vitae
  • Sample of academic work
  • Letter of intent
  • Two signed letters of reference in support of your application
  • Academic transcript(s) and a copy (or copies) of degree certificates
  • English language requirement certificate (if applicable)
  • A document to confirm your identity, name and date of birth