Theological Studies

Programme suitable for:
The Higher Diploma in Theological Studies meets all the Teaching Council of Ireland's Requirements for the teaching of Religious Studies at post-primary level. It entitles teachers holding Department-recognised degrees and teacher training qualifications to teach up to 15 hours' Religious Education per week in a secondary school.

Other graduates may use the programme as a gateway to applying to a Master's programme in Theology or Pastoral Ministry either here in Maynooth or elsewhere Others may be interested in the programme simply as a structured way to approach the big questions in life, giving their personal inquiry a theological shape in the Catholic tradition. Additionally, the Higher Diploma equips graduates to take a more active role in their local church community.

Description:
This one-year, evening/weekend, Level 8, 60 ECTS credits programme gives a foundation in Theological Studies to students who hold a primary degree in another discipline.

Course Content:
In addition to the following programme of study, candidates must
complete Postgraduate induction, week beginning 11th September 2023.

Modules:
• Introduction to Theology
• Reason, Faith and Revelation
• Understanding Jesus Christ Today
• The Church and it's Sacraments
• Moral Theology
• Bioethics
• Catholic Social Teaching
• Sacred Scripture
• The Bible and it's Worlds
• The Old Testament
• The New Testament
• Liturgy
• Foundations of Worship
• Teaching of Religious Education through the Catholic Ethos
• Introduction to World Religions
• Church History
• Philosophy of Religion Grace, Salvation and Christian Anthropology

Admission requirements:
A primary degree or its equivalent is required. While the degree/ qualification will normally be in a discipline other than Theology, consideration will be given to all applications.

Application Deadline:
10th September 2023 For EU & those living on the island of Ireland (Late applications may be considered). 10th September 2023 For non EU.

All core courses will be assessed by means of either coursework or end of semester examination. Shorter modules are assessed by means of essay.

1 year part-time. Methods of Learning: Blended - online and on-campus learning.

Course Start Date: September 2020

Career Outcomes
The Higher Diploma in Theological Studies meets all the Teaching Council of Ireland's Requirements for the teaching of Religious Studies at post-primary level. It entitles teachers holding Department-recognised degrees and teacher training qualifications to teach up to 15 hours' Religious Education per week in a secondary school. Other graduates may use the programme as a gateway to applying to a Master's programme in Theology or Pastoral Ministry either here in Maynooth or elsewhere (students interested in entering a Master's programme are advised to speak with the Admissions Office prior to starting the HDip for further details). Others may be interested in the programme simply as a structured way to approach the big questions in life, giving their personal inquiry a theological shape in the Catholic tradition. Additionally, the Higher Diploma equips graduates to take a more active role in their local church community.