DMin
Apply for the DMin Programme
The DMin programme is an example of a Professional Doctorate. As the term suggests, such programmes have in mind the needs of individuals in particular roles. The DMin is specifically geared towards those in ministry.
The Programme aims to:
i) enable those undertaking the programme to aquire a systematic knowledge and understanding of a substanatial body of knowledge relevant to the practice of ministry;
ii) encourage critical reflection on both the theory and practice of ministry;
iii) develop reflective practitioners who are able to apply new knowledge and insights to the practice of Christian ministry.
The DMin has a mixture of taught elements, as well as the production of a thesis. There are six intensive teaching weeks each year when the taught modules are delivered. The programme is validated by the University of Chester.
Admission requirements
Typically applicants will have a relevant Masters degree. All applicants should normally have at least an upper second class honours degree in a discipline relevant to the subject area of the DMin or a relevant lower second class honours degree and Masters degree. Substantial prior research or professional experience may, in some instances, be acceptable in place of an appropriate degree qualification. Applicants will also normally have professional experience and access to a sustainable professional or organisational context for advanced independent research. Applicants have to satisfy WEST English language requirements, where English is not their first language, namely IELTS 7.0, or equivalent, with minimum of 6.5 in any category.
The admission process requires applicants to submit an application form supported by at least two references. All applicants are interviewed, either in person or using telephone or Skype. Qualification for entry will be judged from the application form and interview. In the case of applicants applying for entry on the grounds of experience other appropriate methods may be used in addition.
Credit claims for exemption of up to 240 credits will be considered on the basis of evidence submitted and will be decided in the light of the regulations of the University of Chester.
Subjects covered
The subjects covered relate directly to the work of the practice of ministry.
Programme modules
DMin Part 1a
Part 1a of the DMin involves the completion of 6 modules (120 credits).
TH7820 Research Methods*
TH7811 Principles of Christian Leadership*
Biblical Exegesis* - English Text (TH7812) or Greek Text (TH7813) or Hebrew Text (TH7814)
TH7817 Popular Culture and the Christian Worldview
TH7816 Ministry in an Urban World
TH7815 Contemporary Church Issues
TH7811 Aspects of Modern Mission
* Core modules
DMin Part 1b
In Part 1b students must complete a further 120 credits, as detailed below:
TH8801 Reflective Practice*
TH8802 Literature Review*
TH8803 Thesis Proposal*
TH8804 The Theology of Pastoral Care
TH8805 Contemporary Missiology
TH8806 Pastoral Response to Trauma
TH8807 Spirituality
* Core modules
All modules are worth 20 credits, except 'Reflective Practice', which counts for 40 credits.
A student may choose to exit with an MProf (Master of Professional Studies) after attaining a total of 180 credits (120 credits from Part 1a and 60 credits from Part 1b).
Part 2
Part 2 of the DMin consists of a 50,000 word thesis.
Successful completion of Parts 1a, 1b and 2 results in the award of DMin.
Assessments
All modules are written, taught and marked by WEST lecturers. The University of Chester appoints an external examiner, in liaison with WEST, who moderates all assessments. Most modules are assessed by means of coursework, though Greek and Hebrew Exegesis also involve an exam. Coursework assessment papers are given to students in the relevant teaching week and are usually submitted 6 - 8 weeks later (sometimes a little later in Semester 1). The deadlines always fall before the next set of teaching weeks. The thesis is examined by means of a viva (oral examination).
Awards
Each module (with the exception of the 40-credit Reflective Practice modules) is worth 20 credits. he DMin thesis carries the equivalent of 300 credits.
The attainment of the award of DMin is achieved on successful completion of 540 credits.
Students on the DMin programme may qualify for the award of Master of Professional Studies (180 credits).
Duration
The DMin programme is only available on a part-time basis. The entire programme of 540 credits normally involves a minimum of six years’ registration and a maximum of seven years’ registration. Whilst the programme is technically deemed to be part-time, it does require a significant time-commitment, by completing, on average, four modules each year.
Teaching dates and schedule
Intensive teaching weeks are held in late August/September, January and March each year.
The timetable for 2011/2012 is available here as a PDF file.
Programme costs
Please see tuition fees.
Who to Contact
Rev Iwan Rhys Jones (MA & DMin Programme Leader)
E: pgadmissions@west.org.uk
T: +44 (0)1656 645411
Application process
For an application form please contact pgadmissions@west.org.uk