Our one year validated 'Professionals in Mission' Certificate (PIM) addresses the big issues surrounding living and working cross-culturally, while allowing you time to prepare personally for your future ministry, through study, reflection and practical placements. On graduation you will receive a Cert(HE) in Intercultural Studies.Who is this course for?
Our PIM students have diverse careers and come from varying backgrounds. A number are married and have children. Families benefit greatly from our family-friendly facilities, including a well-equipped crèche which is available during lectures.
Some Professionals in Mission students have links already with a particular mission agency or organisation and know what they will be doing after study. We are increasingly working with mission agencies to structure a training agreement between them and the College, to ensure that we tailor the training experience to the specific needs of students and their ministry.
Course Structure
During the first two semesters, between September and April, choose from a selection of mission-focused
Certificate and
Diploma modules and study alongside students on these courses. There are seven compulsory modules: Introducing applied theology in a global perspective, Spiritual formation for life and ministry, Transforming teams, Interpreting the Bible in intercultural contexts, Thrive! Equipping for cross-cultural life and ministry, Personal Development and your weekly placement.
You will choose a further six modules - see the download opposite for your available options. These modules will help you:
- deepen your knowledge of the Bible and how to contextualise its message for the environment you are working in;
- understand world religions, secularism, ethics and justice
- develop your practical skills in areas such as integral evangelism and discipleship, communication skills and planting and establishing churches.
Your weekly placement in the local community provides unique opportunities to use your professional skills in a cross-cultural setting or to stretch your faith and skills by trying something new.
The final semester is specifically designed to allow PIM students to explore in greater depth the topics you have already encountered, in a small group setting with an experienced couple acting as hosts and facilitators. You also complete a personal study project on a topic of particular interest to you.