About distance learning

If you wish to start on 1 October, you must submit your application by 1 August. Delays in applications being processed are usually caused by the late arrival of references (letters of recommendation). Please encourage your referees to write as soon as possible.

At present, distance learning courses are not eligible for US federal loans.

US students on distance learning programmes may still apply for private loans. Our Federal Aid team can provide contacts and advice - federal-aid@nottingham.ac.uk.

In common with most UK universities, there are very few scholarships and bursaries to assist with fees. Find out more about scholarships and studentships.

Ideally, university tutors who knew you when you were studying for your first degree. However, we know that this may not be possible or appropriate if you studied a long time ago. In that case, ask a colleague, minister or friend who currently knows you well, and can comment on your academic interests and reasons for wanting to pursue the course.

It must be clearly stressed that the University puts considerable weight on the content of references, so it is worth asking your referees to focus their comments on your academic abilities and aptitude for further study. It should be noted that the University has had to reject references; in one case when the applicant asked his wife to write on his behalf, and in others when the referee commented on the applicant in a purely social or religious capacity: 'I attended his wedding 25 years ago....' 'I have been her vicar for the past 5 years...' with no further academic observations.

• Studying over 2 years - you will study a minimum of 80 credits in your first year, and 100 credits in your second year (40 credits of modules and a 60 credit dissertation).
• Studying over 3 years - you will study a minimum of 60 credits per year.
• Studying over 4 years - you will study a minimum of 40 credits per year, and 60 credits in your final year for your dissertation.

Yes, though you will need to have paid all fees prior to graduation.

Yes, though it should be noted that there are no circumstances under which the University would grant a registration of more than four years.

Yes. We know life can intervene in any study plans so we have awards if you complete a certain amount of work but not the complete MA.

• Postgraduate Diploma - if you complete 120 credits worth of modules

In theory, a 20-credit module should equate to 200 notional study hours, and a 30-credit module to 300 notional study hours. In practice, the amount of time taken to complete modules successfully does vary. Once you've started your degree, you should get into the habit of always having relevant reading 'on the go'. Whether you are working on one module every three, four or six months, it is essential you set aside regular periods for concentrated study, particularly as you move from reading the course materials to writing your essay.

There is no definitive answer on this. Obviously, the more work that goes into your essay, the more you will get out of it, and the higher the mark is likely to be. A lot depends on the nature of the question. If you were doing a close analysis of a particular text, you would be likely to use fewer sources than if you were answering a broader question on a larger topic or period, in which you might be making relatively brief reference to a larger number of sources.

Students pursue an MA for many reasons. Sometimes students move onto a PhD. The distance learning Masters courses provide excellent preparation for doctoral studies.

The admissions requirements suggest a 2:1 or first class degree in theology or a cognate discipline (eg, history). However, every application is considered individually on its merits. If you believe that you have developed personally and academically since achieving your first degree and can show good reasons why you are enthused by the academic study of theology, it is certainly worth applying.

The standard entry requirement for US students is a GPA of 3.3 or above with a major in a relevant discipline (eg, philosophy, history or religion). However, every application is considered individually on its merits.

You should consider the very considerable challenges of launching into a new subject at masters level. For example, you may be unfamiliar with the practice of researching and writing long essays. You'll have to become familiar with the concepts, language, method and history of Systematic and Philosophical Theology.

If you don't have an existing qualification in Theology and Religious Studies but believe that you have aptitude, determination and prior experience we suggest you contact the course director for advice. If you submit an application you'll need to explain in that why you think you'll succeed on the course.

It is not necessary, however, we are always happy to hear from prospective applicants and offer further advice.