Diploma in Applied Theology
The Diploma in Applied Theology is our most popular programme and aims to provide a framework in which Christians can grow as able communicators of the Christian message, competent leaders in Christian work, and as spiritually mature believers.
Our Diploma programme offers a combination of theology courses, ministry modules, and practical experience and can either be completed full-time over 2 years or part-time over 4 years.
Diploma in Applied Theology (2 years, full-time)
Year 1
Old Testament in Contexts
New Testament in Contexts
Biblical Interpretation
Global History of Christianity
Christian Theology
Christian Ethics
Ministry Modules (x4)
Memory Verses 1
Ministry Placement 1
Camp Placement 1
This course introduces students to the literature of the Old Testament (Torah; historical books; writing prophets; Psalms and ‘wisdom’), exploring its key trajectories and theological themes. [20 credits]
This course introduces students to the literature of the New Testament (gospels and Acts; Pauline epistles; non-Pauline epistles; Revelation), exploring its key trajectories and theological themes. [20 credits]
This courses introduces students to biblical hermeneutics (i.e. biblical interpretation) in historical and theological perspective; including case studies and practical exposition. [20 credits]
This course introduces students to the global history of Christianity from the first to twenty-first centuries with a focus on the developments in theology, exegesis, and missions. [20 credits]
This course enables students to explore major theological themes affirmed in the central summaries of the Christian faith (i.e. creeds and confessions), and to examine them in relationship with biblical exegesis. [20 credits]
This course inducts students into the nature Christian living, moral awareness, and ethical judgments, informed by theological reflection, scriptural exegesis, and cultural awareness. [20 credits]
Students will complete four ministry modules in their first year (these modules are offered every other year):
Year A (2026/27):
– Prayer & Revival [5 credits]
– Children & Youth Ministry [5 credits]
– Christian Character & Biblical Relationships [5 credits]
– Pastoral Care [5 credits]
Year B (2027/28):
– Evangelism [5 credits]
– Apologetics [5 credits]
– Discipleship [5 credits]
– Leadership [5 credits]
Students learn and are tested on 100 memory verses across the year.
In May/June, students spend 5 weeks on a ministry placement. Typically, this will be in the UK or Ireland with Faith Mission evangelists.
In July/August, students spend 2 weeks on a camp placement. Typically, the camp placements will be in the UK or Ireland serving at a Faith Mission summer camp.
Year 2
Old Testament Texts
New Testament Texts
Homiletics
Moments in Christian History
Doctrines in Depth
Foundations for Christian Mission
Ministry Modules (x4)
Memory Verses 2
Ministry Placement 2
Camp Placement 2
Bible Reading
This course builds on Old Testament in Contexts, offering a close reading of two Old Testament texts (e.g. Genesis and Job). [20 credits]
This course builds on New Testament in Contexts, offering a close reading of two New Testament texts (e.g. John and Galatians). [20 credits]
An in-depth exploration of the theory and practice of Christian preaching. [20 credits]
This course builds on Global History of Christianity by exploring two “moments” of Christian History in depth (e.g. the pre-Constantinian church and Puritan revolution). [20 credits]
This course builds on Christian Theology, offering an in-depth investigation of two central Christian doctrines (e.g. the trinity and the atonement). [20 credits]
This course provides an integrative investigation into the understanding of the “missio Dei” in the life of the church. [20 credits]
Students will complete the remaining four ministry modules in their second year (these modules are offered every other year):
Year A (2026/27):
– Prayer & Revival [5 credits]
– Children & Youth Ministry [5 credits]
– Christian Character & Biblical Relationships [5 credits]
– Pastoral Care [5 credits]
Year B (2027/28):
– Evangelism [5 credits]
– Apologetics [5 credits]
– Discipleship [5 credits]
– Leadership [5 credits]
Students learn and are tested on 100 memory verses across the year.
In May/June, students spend 5 weeks on a ministry placement. Typically, this will be in the UK or Ireland with Faith Mission evangelists.
In July/August, students spend 2 weeks on a camp placement. Typically, the camp placements will be in the UK or Ireland serving at a Faith Mission summer camp.
All students read through the whole Bible at least once during their time at FMBC.
As well as academic study, all of our full-time students engage in devotions, outreach, and practical service on a weekly basis as an integral part of their studies at the Faith Mission Bible College.
Diploma in Applied Theology (4 years, part-time)
We recognise that not everybody’s circumstances are the same. Due to family, work, and/or church commitments some people may not be in a position to move to Edinburgh to complete the Diploma in Applied Theology full-time. So we offer the opportunity to complete the Diploma in Applied Theology part-time over 4 years.
Part-time Diploma students complete exactly the same classes as full-time Diploma students, but simply spread their academic studies out over four years (this normally means two days in-person study in Edinburgh per semester).
The biggest difference is with regards to how students gain their practical ministry experience. Instead of completing weekly practical service, weekly outreach, spring ministry placements, and summer camp placements organised by the Faith Mission Bible College, part-time Diploma students are responsible for organising and completing an equivalent number of hours of practical ministry experience (normally in a local church and/or in conjunction with a para-church ministry). In order to gain the Diploma in Applied Theology, students must sign off on a total of 1,000 hours of practical ministry experience (i.e. approximately 5 hours per week throughout their studies).
If you’re thinking about studying the Diploma in Applied Theology part-time, but want to find out more, we’d love to explore what this could look like for you. To arrange a conversation with a member of staff please email admin@fmbiblecollege.org.uk
FAQs
Who is this course for?
The Diploma in Applied Theology is for people who desire to go deeper in their study of God’s word and to be equipped for gospel ministry.
How is the course delivered?
The Diploma in Applied Theology is delivered in person at the Faith Mission Bible College in Edinburgh. The Diploma can be completed either full-time over 2 years or part-time over 4 years, but classes cannot be completed remotely.
When does the course run?
Typically, full-time Diploma students are in Edinburgh studying from September – December (Semester 1), January – April (Semester 2), and late April/early May (language and evangelism intensives). Students go on their ministry placements in May/June and camp placements in July/August.
Who will be teaching the course?
The majority of modules are taught by our expert and experienced faculty. A small number of modules are taught by sessional lecturers, with relevant expertise and/or ministry experience.
Can I stay at the Faith Mission Bible College?
Yes. We have a good number of single rooms available for full-time students, which are available for term-time use. We also have a small number of flats available for married couples and families, which are rented for the full year. Part-time students may be able to book a room to use when studying at the college, subject to availability.
What does it cost?
Details of the current costs can be found on the Fees page.
There is no application fee, but a £100 non-refundable deposit is payable on acceptance to the course.
What sort of assessments do I have to complete?
Our modules are assessed by a variety of methods including essays, examinations, presentations, weekly tests, reflective exercises, and group discussions.
How can I fulfil the practical ministry requirements as a part-time student?
Part-time Diploma students have to complete an equivalent number of hours of ministry experience as those completed by full-time Diploma students. This means 1,000 hours across 4 years (approximately 5 hours per week). Possible activities might include preaching, teaching Sunday School/Bible class, leading a small group Bible study, serving with a Boys’ Brigade /Girls Brigade / Scripture Union group, leading/serving at a holiday Bible club or youth camp, street outreach, and practical service with your church or another mission organisation. When you start with us we will meet with you to agree a programme of ministry experience that will allow you to fulfil the requirements of the course. There may be the option to complete short ministry placements with the Faith Mission.
Is there the possibility to join the Faith Mission upon graduation?
Yes. Students participate in the work of the Faith Mission during their time at College and many apply to serve with the Faith Mission upon graduation, although this is not guaranteed. However, there is no expectation to join the Faith Mission after graduation if God is calling you elsewhere. The Faith Mission Bible College has always trained people for a variety of Christian ministries at home and abroad.
Is the Diploma in Applied Theology externally validated?
No, the programme is not externally validated. However, we have a formal agreement with Highland Theological College, which means that they recognise the Diploma in Applied Theology from FMBC as equivalent to the learning outcomes of SCQF Levels 7 and 8 (Levels 1 and 2 of their BA Theology programme). As such, those graduating from the Diploma in Applied Theology with an overall grade of 50% or higher are eligible to apply for direct entry into Level 3 of the BA (Hons) Theology programme at Highland Theological College, which can be completed remotely.
What can I do after graduating with the Diploma in Applied Theology?
Those graduating from FMBC’s Diploma in Applied Theology programmes go onto a variety of destinations. Many join the Faith Mission as evangelists. Others enter other forms of Christian ministry, including with churches and other mission organisations. Still others go on to further theological studies, whether with Highland Theological College or another institution.