Faculty of Theology - University of Oxford · tions as may from time to time be prescribed by the Board of the Faculty of Theology. 5. Part-time students for the above mentioned qualifications

UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

Faculty of Theology

Handbook for

Certificate in Theological and Pastoral Studies (CTPS) and

Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies (DTPS)

2013–2014

2 CTPS/DTPS Handbook 2013-2014

University of Oxford Faculty of Theology Handbook for the Certificate in Theological and Pastoral Studies (CTPS)

and the Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies (DTPS) 2013–2014

1. Introduction

The Certificate and Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies — the CTPS and the DTPS — are courses offered by the Faculty of Theology of the University of Oxford. These courses are operate under the oversight of the Supervisory Committee for the degree of Bachelor of Theology (BTh). If the Supervisory Committee, or the Faculty or University, determines any alteration to the operation of the courses as indicated in this edition of the Handbook for the CTPS and DTPS, students will be notified in writing of such changes.

1.1. Aims and objectives These courses are intended to be of use to candidates seeking to deepen their knowledge of Christian theology and practice, many of whom will go forward for some form of recognised ministry within the church. They offer a combination of rigorous ac-ademic study and the opportunity for some practice-based learning.

1.2. Structure of the qualifications Students will take papers from the BTh syllabus, as outlined in the Examination Regula-tions of the University. A list of these papers is given in section 1.3 below. Candidates for the one-year Certificate in Theological and Pastoral Studies (CTPS) will take at least four papers, including at least one of A1 and A2. Candidates for the two-year Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies (DTPS) will take at least eight papers, including at least one of A1 and A2, and at least one of C1 and C4. Part-time students for these qualifications will pursue their course of study for twice the number of terms required for an equivalent full-time student.

CTPS/DTPS Handbook 2013-2014 3

1.3. List of papers The following papers are available to candidates for the CTPS and DTPS. For fuller syllabus details, please consult the BTh section of the University’s Examination Regulations.

Section A. Foundation Studies A1. Old Testament A: Pentateuch and Prophets. A2. New Testament A: Matthew and 1 Corinthians. A3. Christian Life and Thought, with the option of either A3a (Foundations of Christian

Thought: foundational issues involved in the study of Christian theology, including faith, revelation, Scripture, authority and tradition) or A3b (Development of Christian Life and Thought: first to fifth centuries, with the option of another period as well).

A4. Christian Witness and the Contemporary World: the relationship between Christian faith and contemporary culture, including reflection on the practice of mission and pastoral care.

Section B. Biblical Studies B1. Old Testament B: Historical books and the Writings. B2. New Testament B: at least two of John, Romans, and Hebrews; and broader issues of

New Testament theology, ethics, and interpretation. B3. Biblical Interpretation: central themes in both testaments; and/or the history and

practice of biblical interpretation.

Section C. Doctrine and History C1. Christian Doctrine: the central doctrines of the Christian church. C2. Church History: one period, different to any period(s) studied in Paper A3b. C3. Ecclesiology: the theology of the church, including ministry and the sacraments. C4. Study of Theology: major issues involved in the study of Christian theology (not open

to those who have taken Paper A3a).

Section D. Practical Theology D1. Mission and Ministry: a supervised placement involving study and reflection on issues

of mission and ministry. D2. Christian Ethics: the foundations of Christian moral thought and practice; contempo-

rary moral and social problems; and the relationship of morality to faith, witness, and worship.

D3. Christian Worship: the history and theology of liturgy and worship. D4. Christian Spirituality: major traditions and figures, and relationship with liturgy and

doctrine.

Section E. Other Subjects E1. Christian Mission: theological foundations; history; role of the Church; contemporary

factors. E2. Christian Faith and Other Religions: methodology; Christian approaches; one other re-

ligion. E3. Christian Faith and Philosophy: the relationship between Christianity and the Western

philosophical tradition. E4. Christian Faith and Science: the relationship between theology and the development

of modern science. E5. Christian Faith and Social Sciences: the relationship between theology and the social


sciences. E6. Christian Faith and Psychology: the contribution of psychological theory to pastoral

theology and pastoral care. E7. Canon Law: the sources, history, and theology of Western canon law or the Eastern

canonical tradition. E8. Confessional Study: the tradition of a Christian denomination. E9. Special Subject: the opportunity for more detailed research in a particular subject or

for further language study.

1.4. HE levels and notional CATS points ratings Each paper in the CTPS or DTPS carries a notional 30 CATS (Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme) points. Thus the successful completion of the full CTPS, or of the first year of the DTPS, carries a notional 120 points at HE Level 4 (as defined in the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications [2008]), while the successful completion of the full DTPS carries a notional 240 points: 120 points at Level 4 plus 120 points at Level 5.

2. Course regulations

The official regulations governing these qualifications, as published in the Oxford University Gazette (no. 4889 [16 July 2009], pp. 1362-1363) and amended in no. 4926 [22 July 2010], p. 1358, are as follows:

General regulations 1. The Board of the Faculty of Theology shall have the power to grant the following awards to candidates who have satisfied the conditions prescribed in this section and any further conditions which the board may prescribe by regulation:

Certificate in Theological and Pastoral Studies Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies

2. The examinations for these qualifications shall be under the supervision of the Board of the Faculty of Theology. 3. Candidates who have been admitted under such conditions as the Board of the Faculty of Theology shall prescribe, to courses at Blackfriars, Campion Hall, Harris Manchester College, Mansfield College, Regent’s Park College, Ripon College Cuddesdon, St Benet’s Hall, St Ste-phen’s House, and Wycliffe Hall may be admitted by the board to the examinations for the above mentioned qualifications, provided that they have paid to the Curators of the Univer-sity Chest, through their colleges or other institutions, the fees prescribed in the appropriate regulation. 4. The supervision of the arrangements for the above mentioned qualifications shall be the responsibility of the Supervisory Committee for the Degree of Bachelor of Theology. The committee shall have such powers and duties in respect of the above mentioned qualifica-tions as may from time to time be prescribed by the Board of the Faculty of Theology. 5. Part-time students for the above mentioned qualifications shall in each case be required to pursue their course of study for twice the number of terms required of an equivalent full-time student. 6. On successful completion of the Certificate in Theological and Pastoral Studies, candidates


may offer the remaining papers necessary to complete the Diploma in Theological and Pas-toral Studies.

Special regulations Admission requirements Candidates will normally be expected to have five GCSE passes at grades A-C, one of which must be in English Language, and two passes at Advanced Level (A2); they will normally be expected to meet University residence requirements. Exemptions from these requirements for mature student candidates or those otherwise qualified may be made at the discretion of the BTh Supervisory Committee. Candidates must demonstrate aptitude and vocation for ministry or other church work. Students who can demonstrate completed and accredited previous academic achievement equivalent to the Certificate in Theological and Pastoral Studies may, at the discretion of the Supervisory Committee for the Bachelor of Theology, be admitted directly to study for the Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies.

Course requirements Candidates for the Certificate in Theological and Pastoral Studies will take at least four pa-pers at Level 4 [as defined in the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (2008)] from the syllabus as outlined for the Bachelor of Theology, including at least one of A1 and A2. Candidates who have satisfied the examiners in four papers including A1 or A2 may suppli-cate for the Certificate or may take at least four further papers at Level 5 [as defined in the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (2008)] from the syllabus as outlined for the Bachelor of Theology, including at least one of C1 and C4. Candidates for the Certificate or Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies may not trans-fer to the CTh or BTh courses, or to any other University of Oxford degree programme. Examinations Examination will take place by continuous assessment within colleges, supervised and mod-erated by the BTh Supervisory Committee and a Faculty Board moderator on behalf of the Faculty Board. Two summative pieces of work will be assessed for each paper. These will take the form of two essays or, alternatively, one essay plus one project. Essays at Level 4 should not exceed 2500 words, and essays at Level 5 should not exceed 3000 words. Guide-lines for the project will be published in the course handbook issued by the Faculty of Theol-ogy. In addition to submitting these two moderated pieces of work for each paper, candi-dates must complete a form, countersigned by a college officer, stating that they have at-tended the relevant course of instruction and passed the required formative, internally as-sessed work for that paper.

3. The nature of assessed work for the CTPS/DTPS

Two pieces of work will be submitted for summative assessment in each paper. These will take the form of one essay plus one project or one further essay. It will be a requirement that the subject matter of these two pieces should be clearly distinct from one another.


So as to ensure coverage of the breadth of the syllabus, candidates will also be required to complete a form, indicating that they have attended a course of instruction and passed the required formative work for that paper. (The form may be found at the end of this hand-book.) This will include a record of the number of teaching hours received, normally equiva-lent to sixteen hours of lectures, although fewer hours will be required for papers taught by tutorial. It may also include details of formative shorter pieces, marked or presented inter-nally, but not submitted for moderation, e.g. book reviews, seminar presentations, practice-based exercises.

4. Details of summative coursework

4.1. Essays Definition An essay is a focused piece of academic writing, which addresses a specific issue. Essays for assessment should address the problem posed by the set question or title, developing a co-herent argument which leads to a clear and well-founded conclusion. Examples of essay types The following is an indicative list of essay titles. It is not intended to be exhaustive, but to in-dicate the nature and scope of summative essays:

Discuss the history and theology of a particular book of the Bible.

Give an account of the development of a particular Christian doctrine, outlining its de-velopment and its relevance for today.

Discuss and evaluate the theological perspective of a particular theologian or group of theologians.

Analyse a particular practice in the Church’s mission and ministry and show how it con-tributes to Christian life today.

4.2. Projects Definition A Study Project should be a piece of work requiring equivalent reading, preparation and production time and effort as an essay. It should be carefully designed in consultation be-tween student and tutor to enable the demonstration of relevant theological knowledge and understanding, as well as competence in an appropriate form and genre of communication. Elements within study projects Each submitted study project should be made up of four elements: 1. The piece of work itself (for examples of types of work, see below under Examples of pro-

ject types). Written pieces will usually be shorter than an essay (see below under Word limits for moderated pieces). For no more than one out of the four pieces in the CTPS or no more than two out of the eight pieces in the DTPS, the piece of work may take the form of a non-written piece, e.g. a picture or a DVD.

2. A rationale of approximately 1000 words. This should provide a clear statement of the

candidate’s aims and objectives for the piece of work, an account of its intended audience


or context, and a rehearsal of the choices that have been made, both theological and practical, in designing and presenting it. This is crucial, as it will provide the context against which the piece of work will be marked. A poor account of the planning process will detract from the mark of an otherwise good piece of work.

3. A reflection of approximately 500 words. This should consider the extent to which and

manner in which the stated aims and objectives have been met, and reflection on how the production (and execution) of the piece of work has increased the student’s theologi-cal and practical knowledge and understanding. In cases where the piece of work has ac-tually been used as intended (e.g. a preached sermon, a delivered workshop, a published leaflet), this should also include an account of its reception and the candidate’s reflec-tions on that. Poor reflection on an otherwise good piece of work will affect the final mark significantly; likewise, good reflection on poorer work will enable a candidate to demonstrate some of what might have been lacking (and an appreciation of what was lacking) in the work, and thus contribute more to the final mark for the piece.

4. A bibliography and list of other sources. All four of these are essential parts of the piece of work; no piece of work can be marked un-less all four elements are present; poor work in any of these four elements will be reflected in the final mark awarded; inadequate work in any one of these four elements may result in the piece of work being failed, despite good work in the others.

A study project may also be accompanied by additional helpful and explanatory material in Appendix form. Examples of project types The following is an indicative list of types of project. It is not intended to be exhaustive, but to indicate the nature and scope of summative projects:

A series of sermons.

A series of teaching sessions for group study.

A series of articles for a parish magazine, or equivalent.

A series of radio talks.

A mixture of genres which might include one from any of the above series and might also include, for example, a book review or a reflective piece on a piece of learning that has been undertaken, whether in an academic or pastoral setting.


4.3. Word limits for moderated pieces

The CTPS and Year 1 of the DTPS

1 x Essay 2000–2500 words or 2 x Essay 2000–2500 words (each)

1 x Project 4000 words (max.)

Total for each paper: 4,000–6,500 words Grand total across 4 papers: 16,000–26,000 words

Year 2 of the DTPS

1 x Essay 2500–3000 words or 2 x Essay 2500–3000 words (each)

1 x Project 5000 words (max.)

Total for each paper: 5,000–8,000 words Grand total across 4 papers: 20,000–32,000 words Grand total for the DTPS across 8 papers: 36,000–58,000 words Note that the word limit for projects allows for the increased number of words that may be required for the ‘presentation’ part of the project. Also note that the word limits given here are for summative assessment only; the formative coursework set for internal assessment will be in addition to the above word counts.

4.4 A note on plagiarism Plagiarism is the copying or paraphrasing of other people’s work or ideas into your own work without full acknowledgement. All published and unpublished material, whether in manu-script, printed or electronic form, is covered under this definition. Collusion is another form of plagiarism involving the unauthorised collaboration of students (or others) in a piece of work. Cases of suspected plagiarism in assessed work are investigated under the disciplinary regu-lations concerning conduct in examinations. Intentional or reckless plagiarism may incur se-vere penalties, including failure of your programme of study or expulsion from the Universi-ty. For further guidance on this subject, please consult the important webpages at <www.admin.ox.ac.uk/epsc/plagiarism>.

5. Research Ethics

5A.1 University Research Integrity and Ethics Policy

Paper D.1 is based on a supervised placement. The essay, and any documentation attached, is likely to describe people encountered, and include details of interviews or conversations. Although the “core” of the essay consists of theological reflection, the work done for Paper D.1 is true, if usually “qualitative”, research. A Project (Paper F.2), and on occasion work to-


wards other Papers, may also include “research involving human participants”. Students engaged in such work must attend to the following Research Integrity and Ethics Policy: http://www.admin.ox.ac.uk/researchsupport/integrity/.

This website provides links to the relevant University policies, guidelines and procedures which are intended to promote the responsible conduct of research in the University's ongo-ing research activities.

All students carrying out research involving human participants must adhere to the universi-ty Policy on the Ethical Conduct of Research Involving Human Participants and Personal Da-ta: http://www.admin.ox.ac.uk/curec/policystatement/. In order to comply with this policy such students must fill out the form CUREC/1A checklist, for use by staff and student re-searchers primarily in the Social Sciences and Humanities (Form available here: www.admin.ox.ac.uk/curec/oxonly/checklistsandapplicationform/)

For a complete set of principles, follow the links above. However, the following summary of principles & good practice should suffice for most students on the BTh and related courses.

5A.2 When a CUREC/1A Form is Needed

The CUREC/1A form, mentioned above, requesting formal advance ethical approval of the research, will be needed if, for example, your research involves:

children and young people, or vulnerable adults, or people whose ability to consent to the research is in some way compromised;

the use of personal data that is not in the public domain;

interviews that are in some way “personally probing”, involving for example people’s reli-gious or political opinions when these are not public knowledge, their sexuality, their moral or psychological problems, or their family life;

any details about people that could have serious repercussions for them, such as criminal behaviour, or opinions deemed dangerous in their family or society.

If your D.1 placement is an integral part of your pastoral training, and the material on which your theological reflection is based consists simply of an audit of the practice in a parish or similar setting, practice that is already publicly known, then the CUREC/1A form will not be needed. However, you must follow the principles and procedures here set out, and all other relevant rules for good pastoral practice and courtesy.

Likewise if your research for an essay or project simply relies on published literature and da-ta, the CUREC/1A form will not be needed.

You should consult your pastoral studies tutor not only when planning your placement for Paper D.1, but also when planning any research that involves the participation of other peo-ple. The tutor will advise whether your research requires ethical approval in advance.

5A.3 Basic principles

Research activities involving human participants must be conducted in a way which respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and which minimises risk to participants, researchers, third parties (such as family members, carers or the wider community), and the University itself.

Research must avoid harm to people involved in, or affected by it, hence any risk must be identi-fied early on and carefully assessed.

Research must comply with current legislative requirements.

http://www.admin.ox.ac.uk/researchsupport/integrity/

http://www.admin.ox.ac.uk/curec/policystatement/

http://www.admin.ox.ac.uk/curec/oxonly/checklistsandapplicationform/


Research should be designed and undertaken in a manner that evinces commitment to accounta-bility and quality. Research must be independent and impartial.

Participants’ informed written consent is essential, so that they clearly participate voluntarily.

Research respondents’ confidentiality and anonymity must be respected.

5A.3.1 Research involving children and vulnerable adults

[For definition of “vulnerable adult” put “safeguarding vulnerable adults – a tool kit for general prac-titioners” into your search engine, which should lead you to the relevant item on the bma.org.uk website. Card 4 discusses the term helpfully.]

If your research involves children and young people, or vulnerable adults, then you must have Criminal Records Bureau Clearance. See http://www.ethicsguidebook.ac.uk/Criminal-Records-Bureau-Clearance-115 . This is a key requirement. If you have been accepted for ministerial train-ing, this clearance should have been obtained already.

Children, young people under the age of 18, and vulnerable adults, should not be interviewed by you alone, whether individually or in a group; a responsible adult such as a parent, carer or

teacher must be present.5A.3.2 Permission for using personal data, etc.

If your research involves minors or vulnerable adults, you must obtain the prior written permis-sion of the parents or carers or others responsible for them.

The people involved in your research must be fully informed about its purpose and intended use, about what their participation involves, and about any risks. In this way their consent will be in-formed, valid and freely given.

You must respect participants’ right to withdraw from research at any time.

Take special care when inviting people to participate in your research who are vulnerable (e.g. in relation to their capacity to understand the research), or whose freely given consent may be compromised because of their professional role, or who may be over-burdened in that role if asked to participate in your research.

3A.3.3 Anonymity

The confidentiality of information provided by individual participants must be observed, hence it may only appear in an essay and any accompanying dossier in an anonymous way, for example by the use of a fictitious name & the absence of details that may enable a reader to identify the par-ticipant, unless the participant has given express written permission for him/her to be identified.

Care should be taken in a Long Essay Title Form, an essay, and its cover sheet, to anonymise the name of any institution, such as a parish, where a pastoral placement or research was undertak-en, e.g. by giving it a fictitious name. Its location should be described in general terms.

If it seems necessary to include in an accompanying dossier something such as a parish bulletin that will identify the place where the research was undertaken, permission must be obtained from the officials of the place, and from anyone whose character, opinions, etc., feature in the es-say, and who can be identified by means of the material in the dossier.

Appropriate safeguards should protect data access and data use, according to the terms under which data were collected.

5A.3.4 Etiquette in interviews

Explain to the interviewee the nature and purpose of your project;

Explain how the interview is to be used;

Assure the interviewee of anonymity, or (if it will be difficult to ensure this) obtain permission for him/her to be identified in your essay and supporting dossier;

http://www.ethicsguidebook.ac.uk/Criminal-Records-Bureau-Clearance-115

http://www.ethicsguidebook.ac.uk/Criminal-Records-Bureau-Clearance-115


Obtain permission for the interview to be recorded, if this will be necessary;

Allow the interviewee to terminate the interview at any time, or to withdraw consent for its use;

Do not be impolite, judgmental or aggressive in the interview, or make a show of superiority; ob-viously there will be occasions when a theological or philosophical debate is appropriate, for ex-ample when discussing an issue of theology or policy with a pastor or fellow academic.

Any consents necessary should be obtained in writing;

If prior research ethics approval needs to be sought, the CUREC/1A form must be accompanied by the participant information sheet, etc., as detailed below.

5A.3.5 Approval for Research

In many cases, a pastoral placement will involve observing a parish or similar institution, and reflect-ing on “data” that are in the public domain, such as events in the parish’s life – services, social events, talks – and its bulletins or magazines. In such cases, your pastoral studies tutor may advise that there is no need to seek ethical approval. You must still exercise the respect and discretion de-scribed above, obtain the informed written consent of the relevant parishioners and clergy, and anonymise what you report in your essay and any accompanying dossier.

If your pastoral studies tutor judges that prior research ethics approval is needed, for example be-cause you will be asking people personally probing questions, or using personal data that is not in the public domain, follow the procedure given below:

In accordance with its policy on research activities involving human participants, the University re-quires that all such research be subject to ethical review. For the BTh and related programmes, this is done by completing the CUREC/1A form mentioned above, using the most up-to-date version, acces-sible from https://www1.admin.ox.ac.uk/curec/oxonly/checklistsandapplicationform/ .

Forms should be typewritten, checked with your pastoral studies tutor, and then submitted to the Secretary of the BTh Supervisory Committee at the same time as the Long Essay Title Form, to-gether with any appropriate supporting documentation. He or she will consult the Standing Com-mittee and inform you whether the research proposal seems acceptable, and will submit the form to the Social Sciences and Humanities Inter-Divisional Research Ethics Committee.

Note that much of what is in the CUREC/1A form is not relevant to many BTh students. Nevertheless it is important to read it in full, and to ensure all fields are completed, so as to show, for example, that your research does not need the kind of vetting required for medical research and the like.

Supporting documentation should include:

A participant information sheet you have written, explaining the study;

A consent form for participants agreeing to take part, covering Data Protection, consent to audio recording (if relevant), acknowledgement that they know how to make a complaint to the Social Sciences and Humanities Ethics committee if they are unhappy with their experience in the study;

Any questionnaires issued to participants;

A brief account of how you propose to conduct your research, of how you propose to use it, and of any foreseen risks, if this is necessary so that the Standing Committee or Ethics Committee may assess the request for ethical approval.

An on-line course is available at http://www.admin.ox.ac.uk/researchsupport/integrity/human/ , which should be undertaken if the research is more personally probing than merely spending time in a parish or similar institution, and talking in a relatively unstructured way with people involved. You can record in the CUREC/1A form whether you have taken this course, and whether you have read any other guidance on research ethics.

https://www1.admin.ox.ac.uk/curec/oxonly/checklistsandapplicationform/

http://www.admin.ox.ac.uk/researchsupport/integrity/human/


5A.3.6 Some Advice on Research

It is important to demonstrate awareness of the limitations of your research. For example, if you are questioning people in one place, do not assume a similar answer would be obtained elsewhere. Do not suppose a small sample of answers, or a small collection of data, is statistically significant. You may be able to support your data by reference to other scholars’ studies on larger and more widely representative bodies of participants. Otherwise you must treat your data as “indicative”, and show that you are aware of ways in which it might be unrepresentative.

6. Grade descriptors

6.1. Essays The grade descriptors below indicate the standard that will be required for essays in the CTPS to score within each range of marks. The particular qualities that will be required to ob-tain marks in the three higher ranges for essays submitted for the DTPS is indicated in italics below.

Excellent (70% and above) Excellent work, which shows a confident and wide-range of knowledge of key facts and is-sues, an excellent understanding of relevant theology, and an insightful and thoughtful ca-pacity to address and present the topic in a structured, direct, effective and appropriate manner. In the DTPS, marks in this range will be awarded to essays that display signs of originality and a grasp of the wider theological implications of a particular subject. There will be clear evidence that the candidate has read widely around the subject of the essay and dealt in-sightfully with the literature that has been read. The structure and presentation of essays marked in this range will always be of a very high standard. Good (60-69%) Good work, which shows a good knowledge of key facts and issues, a good understanding of relevant theology, and a capacity to address and present the topic in a structured, effective and appropriate manner. Distinguished from ‘excellent’ by a less insightful or less compre-hensive approach. In the DTPS, marks in this range will be awarded to essays that display a sense of the wider implications of theological issues under consideration. There will be evidence that the candi-date has read and interacted with a range of relevant literature. The structure and presenta-tion of essays marked in this range will always be of a high standard. Clear Pass (50-59%) Competent work, which shows secure knowledge of a limited range of key facts and issues, some understanding of relevant theology, and a reasonable capacity to present the topic in a structured, coherent and appropriate manner. In the DTPS, marks in this range will be awarded to essays that display a firm grasp of some of the immediate theological issues under consideration. There will be evidence that the can-didate has read and understood more than one piece of relevant literature. The ability effec-tively to communicate important facts and concepts must be shown. Bare Pass (40-49%)


Adequate work, which shows some knowledge of a limited range of key facts and issues, a basic understanding of the relevant theology, and some attempt to present the topic in a structured, coherent and appropriate manner. Recoverable Fail (35-39%) Inadequate work, which attempts to draw on key facts and issues, but demonstrates inade-quate knowledge of them. Some basic understanding of relevant theology is presented, but some important factors are omitted, or there are significant errors, and/or the work is pre-sented in an inadequate or inappropriate structure or format. Clear Fail (25-34%) Poor work, which shows little understanding of key facts and issues, a poor understanding of relevant theology, or a poor attempt to present the topic in any structured, coherent or ap-propriate manner. Complete Fail (below 25%) Very poor work, which shows almost no knowledge of key facts and issues, little or no un-derstanding of relevant theology, and little attempt to present the topic in any structured, coherent or appropriate manner. A few marks may be awarded for some components which might form part of an acceptable submission if developed.

6.2. Projects The grade descriptors below indicate the standard that will be required for projects in the CTPS to score within each range of marks. The particular qualities that will be required to ob-tain marks in the higher three ranges for projects submitted for the DTPS is indicated in ital-ics below. Excellent (70% and above) Excellent work, which shows a confident and wide-range of knowledge of key facts and is-sues, an excellent understanding of relevant theology, and an insightful and thoughtful ca-pacity to address and present the topic in a structured, direct, effective and appropriate manner. Clear and good decisions will have been taken and explained in the planning pro-cess; concluding reflection on the piece of work will include careful consideration of the rela-tionships between subject material, context and genre and the success (or otherwise) of the project. In the DTPS, marks in this range will be awarded to projects that display signs of originality and a grasp of the wider theological implications of a particular project. The structure and presentation of projects marked in this range will be of a very high standard. Good (60-69%) Good work, which shows a good knowledge of key facts and issues, a good understanding of relevant theology, and a capacity to address and present the topic in a structured, effective and appropriate manner. Clear decisions will have been taken and explained in the planning process; concluding reflection on the piece of work will include careful consideration of the relationships between subject material, context and genre and the success (or otherwise) of the project. Distinguished from “excellent” by a less insightful and/or less comprehensive approach.


In the DTPS, marks in this range will be awarded to projects that display a clear grasp of the theological issues under consideration. The structure and presentation of projects marked in this range will be of a high standard.


Clear Pass (50-59%) Competent work, which shows secure knowledge of a limited range of key facts and issues, some understanding of relevant theology, and a reasonable capacity to present the topic in a structured, coherent and appropriate manner. Some appropriate decisions in preparing the piece of work will have been taken, and some adequate explanation offered; reflection on it will have made a reasonable attempt to consider some of the relationships between subject material, context and genre; there may be some consideration of the success (or otherwise) of the project. In the DTPS, marks in this range will be awarded to projects that display a firm grasp of some of the immediate theological issues under consideration. The structure and present work of projects marked in this range will indicate an ability to communicate key concepts and facts clearly and effectively. Bare Pass (40-49%) Adequate work, which shows some knowledge of a limited range of key facts and issues, a basic understanding of the relevant theology, and some attempt to present the topic in a structured, coherent and appropriate manner. Some key factors or issues may be missing. Some decisions in preparing the piece of work may have been weak or badly explained; re-flection on the piece of work may be weak and might only barely consider the relationships between subject material, context and genre. There may be little attempt to assess the suc-cess (or otherwise) of the project. Recoverable Fail (35-39%) Inadequate work, which attempts to draw on key facts and issues, but demonstrates inade-quate knowledge of them. Some basic understanding of relevant theology is presented, but some important factors are omitted, or there are significant errors, or the work is presented in an inadequate or inappropriate structure or format. There may be little awareness or ex-planation of the planning process or only a weak reflection on the relationships between subject material, context and genre, or on the success (or otherwise) of the project. Clear Fail (25-34%) Poor work which shows little understanding of key facts and issues, a poor understanding of relevant theology, a poor attempt to present the topic in any structured, coherent or appro-priate manner. Inadequate awareness and explanation of the planning process and little or weak reflection on the piece of work. Complete Fail (below 25%) Very poor work, which shows almost no knowledge of key facts and issues, little or no un-derstanding of relevant theology, and little attempt to present the topic in any structured, coherent or appropriate manner; little or no awareness of the planning process; little or no reflection on the piece of work. A few marks may be awarded for some components which might form part of an acceptable submission if developed.


7. Process of assessment

7.1 Assessment Procedure Long essays and projects must be entirely the candidate’s own work. Candidates may receive tutorial guidance in the early stages of composition, and tutors may read and comment on a first draft. Candidates must submit two copies of each essay and project (marked A and B). Each copy must:

be printed on one side only with 1.5 or double spacing

have pages numbered consecutively

have a secure binding or cover, which does not need to be removed to read the essay

be submitted with a standard title sheet (page ? of this handbook) indicating essay title

and candidate number (but not name or college) and word count (including footnotes

but not bibliography).

be within the stipulated length and indicate the word count (including footnotes but

not bibliography) have a bibliography of all works consulted.

Use a consistent referencing system

These documents must be placed together in a sealed envelope, marked with the number and title of the paper and the candidate’s examination number and addressed to the Chair of Examiners, CTPS / DTPS, Examination Schools, High Street, Oxford OX1 4BG. Long essays and projects must be submitted by noon on: : 7th April 2014 and 15th September 2014 Approval must also be obtained for research involving human participants, as outlined above in section 4. Assessment is conducted by the C/DTPS Examination Board, and the process takes about six weeks. All work is marked by two examiners independently, and the examiners then meet to agree marks and grades. The process is convened by a chair of examiners appointed through the Faculty and includes an external examiner. When the assessment process is complete and all examiners have signed the official results sheets, the overall results are placed on Or-acle Student System(OSS).

7.2. Final classification A mark will be awarded for each paper. This will be the average of the two marks awarded for the work submitted for summative assessment, after moderation. Both pieces of summa-tive work for each paper must gain a mark of 35 or more for that paper to count towards the final qualification. A candidate gaining a mark below 35 may have one opportunity in any paper to submit a new piece of summative work, with a different title, to replace a piece that has failed. Papers that are awarded marks in the 35-39% (recoverable fail) range, although unsatisfac-tory in themselves, may be balanced by higher marks so as to count towards a Pass (or


above) in the overall qualification. The marks for each paper will be added up, and an average mark will be calculated across all papers (four for the CTPS and eight for the DTPS). Fractions of marks will be rounded up. Final classification will be on a Distinction/Merit/Pass scale: Classification Average mark Distinction 70% and above Merit 60-69% Pass 40-59%


University of Oxford Certificate and Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies Essay and Project Title Sheet

This cover sheet must be bound into both copies of the essay, and must be completely visible through a transparent cover. Write or print clearly. Do not reformat this form by computer.

Paper No. Paper Title Candidate No. Year course was started: Do not give your name or college Course (tick as appropriate) Course: □ Certificate in Theological and Pastoral Studies Essay □ 2000-2500 words

Project □ 4000 words (max)

□ Diploma in Theological & Pastoral Studies Year 1 Essay □ 2000-2500 words Project □ 4000 words (max)

□ Diploma in Theological & Pastoral Studies Year 2 Essay □ 2500-3000 words Project □ 5000 words (max)

Essay or Project Title Word Count including footnotes but excluding bibliography Submission Date Copy [ ] A

[ ] B Research Ethics Approval (please tick one box only) [ ] My essay is not based on a pastoral placement, or on any research involving human participants, or on any personal data not already in the public domain. [ ] My essay is based on a pastoral placement, but of a kind for which my director of pastoral studies advised no research ethics approval was needed. [ ] I submitted a CUREC/1A form seeking approval for research involving human participants or personal data, and obtained approval from the BTh standing committee, which passed on the form to the Inter-Divisional Research Ethics Committee.


University of Oxford Certificate and Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies

Assignment Declaration Sheet

This declaration sheet must be completed and signed for each Paper and must be enclosed with the essays submitted for summative assessment, but must not be bound into any copy of the es-says. It must be placed in the sealed envelope, marked with the number and title of the paper and the candidate’s examination number, that contains the essays sent to the Chair of Examin-ers, C/DTPS, Examination Schools. Write or print clearly. Do not reformat this form by computer. Paper Number: Paper Title: Surname: Forename(s): College: Date of Starting Course: Course: (tick one) CTPS DTPS Title of assignment 1: Title of assignment 2: Declarations: Candidate: ‘This is my own work, and it has not been submitted for any other qualification.’ Signed by Candidate: Date:

College Officer: ‘An appropriate course of instruction has been satisfactorily completed.’

Signed by Tutor/Officer: Date:


University Examination Entry Form – Specimen for C/DTPS

Examination for the CTPS DTPS

OSS Person Number: «Oss_Person_Number» «Surname», «Forename» «College» «Programme_Code» «Programme_Title»

X

Please indicate, by placing a CROSS in the appropriate box, which session you are entering for. (A separate entry is required for each session)

TRINITY TERM LONG VACATION

Please indicate the subjects offered, by placing a CROSS in each appropriate box on the left.

ESSAYS

PART 1 Section A. Foundation Studies

THEO0270 9T50 A.1 Old Testament A

THEO0272 9T52 A.2 New Testament A

THEO0273 9T53

A.3 Christian Life and Thought Either

THEO0238 9T03 A. Foundations of Christian Thought

or

THEO0239 9T05 B. Development of Christian Life and Thought

THEO0243 9T09 A.4 Christian Witness and the Contemporary World

PART 2 Section B. Biblical Studies

THEO0244 9T11 B.1 Old Testament B

THEO0246 9T13 B.2 New Testament B

THEO0248 9T15 B.3 Biblical Interpretation

Section C. Doctrine and History

THEO0249 9T18 C.1 Christian Doctrine

C.2 Church History: Indicate the period offered:

THEO0250 9T20 (a) First to fifth centuries

THEO0251 9T21 (b) Sixth to eleventh centuries

THEO0252 9T22 (c) Eleventh to fourteenth centuries

THEO0253 9T23 (d) Fifteenth and sixteenth centuries

THEO0254 9T24 (e) Seventeenth and eighteenth centuries

THEO0255 9T25 (f) Nineteenth and twentieth centuries

THEO0256 9T26 C.3 Ecclesiology

THEO0257 9T27 C.4 Study of Theology

Section D. Practical Theology

THEO0292 9T30 D.1 Mission and Ministry

THEO0342 9T31 D.2 Christian Ethics

THEO0260 9T33 D.3 Christian Worship

THEO0261 9T34 D.4 Christian Spirituality

Section E. Other subjects

THEO0262 9T36 E.1 Christian Mission

THEO0314 9T41 E.2 Christian Faith and Other Religions

THEO0263 9T42 E.3 Christian Faith and Philosophy

THEO0264 9T43 E.4 Christian Faith and Science

THEO0265 9T44 E.5 Christian Faith and Social Sciences

THEO0266 9T45 E.6 Christian Faith and Psychology

THEO0267 9T46 E 7 Canon Law

THEO0301 9T47 E.8 Confessional Study


Certificate and Diploma in Theological and Pastoral Studies – Dates Easter Vacation Examination Round 2013: Exam Entry Forms to University offices by noon by 31st January 2014 Long essays to be submitted to Schools by 12noon by 7th April 2014 Long Vacation Examination Round 2013: Exam Entry Forms to University offices by noon by 13th June 2014 Long essays to be submitted to school by 12noon by 15th September 2014 Joint Consultative and Supervisory Committee meetings (2.15 and 3.00 pm respectively): Michaelmas Term: 24th October, 2013 Hilary Term: 30th January, 2014 Trinity Term: 8th April, 2014 (TBC)

Documents

Faculty of Theology - University of Oxford · tions as may from time to time be prescribed by the Board of the Faculty of Theology. 5. Part-time students for the above mentioned qualifications