Research Degrees
MPhil and PhD
These degrees are suitable for ordinands, clergy and others who wish to pursue advanced research under the guidance of one or two specialist supervisors. Where this offers the best option for the individual student, supervisors will be drawn from academic staff in the University of Sheffield’s Biblical Studies Department and the College of the Resurrection. In other cases, supervisors are drawn from other UK universities.
Admission to the MPhil normally requires a good honours degree (first or upper second class) or a good postgraduate diploma in Theology and/or Religious Studies, or equivalent qualifications in a relevant area of study.
In line with that of most British universities, Sheffield’s normal admissions practice is to accept students into the MPhil programme initially and then transfer them to the PhD programme at the end of the first year of research, if their progress has been satisfactory and they show evidence of ability to complete a doctoral thesis. The standard period of research is three years for full-time students, including time spent in the MPhil programme.
Research degrees for ordinands
In most cases, ordinands who wish to take one of these courses as part of their formation for ordained ministry will need to be sponsored (and funded) by Ministry Division as a potential theological educator. For further information, you should speak with your DDO and the College. If you would like to speak with someone informally about this option, please contact the Academic Registrar through our enquiry form.
Research degrees for clergy and Independent Students
If you are a UK resident in full-time or part-time employment you may choose to study for a research degree at the College on a part-time basis.
In addition, the College regularly welcomes clergy and other Christian ministers who wish to study at postgraduate level during sabbatical leave. For more information on this option, click here.