Master of Studies (MSt) in Theology

The Master of Studies in Theology (MSt) is a nine-month course. This will include an element of scholarly research and writing, which can constitute part of the training for a future research degree. The purpose of the MSt is to offer specialist postgraduate education in theology for able students, and to provide training in research methods, general education in a chosen field of research, and experience in a controlled piece of research.  It is now the standard mode of entry into the doctoral programme alongside the MPhil. 

Students applying for the MSt may choose from a wide variety of specialisations, including Old Testament, New Testament, Biblical Interpretation, Christian Ethics, Modern Doctrine, Judaism and Christianity in the Graeco-Roman World, Ecclesiastical History, Science and Religion, Reformation Theology, and Patristic Theology.

The MSt at Wycliffe Hall offers:

  • Student-centred learning, with an emphasis on student initiative and exploration
  • All the intellectual rigour of the University of Oxford, combined with the pastoral and ministerial insights of Wycliffe tutors
  • Sustained personal interaction with and support from tutors
  • An evangelical ethos with the opportunity to participate in formational activities and the life of the worshipping community
  • Learning within an environment in which the integration of spiritual formation and academic learning is paramount
  • The opportunity to be members of the wider Wycliffe community, but also of the Wycliffe Hall Graduate Society, which offers a wide range of additional academic, social, and spiritual support. For more information on Wycliffe’s graduate provision, please see the Graduate Study webpage on the Wycliffe Hall website

The MSt is mainly taught by seminars and supervisions. The course of study for the MSt lasts nine months from October to June in one academic year. It offers an intensive period of advanced study in a specific field with rigorous training in relevant research methods.

For a general overview of the course, please see the MSt in Theology webpage on the University of Oxford Admissions website.  

Full details on the course structure can be found in the Course Regulations for the Master of Studies in Theology

Wycliffe has one of the largest graduate theological communities in Oxford, and specialises in integrating ministerial formation with the academic studies of its graduate ordinands.  Each student is overseen by the Tutor for Graduates to discuss their particular needs and to ensure that all graduate ordinands leave Wycliffe academically, spiritually, and pastorally prepared and confident for their future ministry.

Ordinands are expected to participate in the life of the worshipping community through participation in daily chapel services and a weekly fellowship group led by a Wycliffe tutor.   Ordinands participate in weekly placements with a church or other ministry organisation, as well as one 5-week summer placement.  Ordinands also serve in 1-2 church missions.  

Integrated study weeks provide ordinands with a chance for in-depth study of key topics such as baptism, communion, Islam, and ethics.  Preaching classes are taken throughout the course with supervised preaching engagements.

Students applying to Wycliffe Hall must be at least 21 years old.

For further entry requirements, please see the ‘Entry Requirements’ tab on the MSt in Theology webpage on the University of Oxford Admissions website. 

Church of England ordinands must have received recommendation for training from the Church of England.

For tuition fees, please see the ‘Funding and Costs’ tab on the MSt in Theology webpage on the University of Oxford Admissions website.  

Accommodation fees can be found on the Wycliffe Hall Accommodation webpage.

In addition, Wycliffe Hall students pay a termly Common Room fee, the amount of which is decided on a yearly basis but usually approximates £50.00.    

Out-of-pocket expenses incurred for travel related to placements and missions will be reimbursed up to a fixed limit.

Ordinands should consult with their sponsoring body regarding arrangements for payment of fees.

Students must apply to the University of Oxford; candidates for ordination in the Church of England should also complete a separate Wycliffe Hall application form.

All graduate applications are made to the relevant faculty through the University of Oxford online application system.  For detailed information, please see the ‘How to Apply’ tab on the MSt in Theology webpage on the University of Oxford Admissions website.  Once students have been accepted onto their course by the University, their applications are then sent on to Wycliffe.  Students must indicate their preference to join Wycliffe Hall on their online application.  For detailed information, please see the University of Oxford Choosing a College webpage.