Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2026-2027

Module TMMC1321: Foundations in Theology

Department: Theology, Ministry and Mission

TMMC1321: Foundations in Theology

Type Tied Level 1 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2026/2027 Module Cap Location Durham
Tied to Common Awards Framework

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • TMMC1207
  • TMMC1211

Aims

  • This module aims to:
  • Introduce students to the study of theology as a reflective, and communal activity rooted in Scripture, tradition, and prayer and/or spirituality.
  • Develop students’ confidence in reading, discussing, and responding to theological concepts in accessible and informed ways.
  • Encourage students to articulate connections between theology, ministry, mission, and everyday Christian practice.

Content

  • Introduction to the subject of Theology
  • Introduction to Scripture and to the Interpretation of Scripture
  • Introduction to one or more Christian doctrines
  • Introduction to connections between theology and Christian discipleship, ministry and mission

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Outline different ways Christians understand and engage with Scripture
  • Investigate and describe competently one or more Christian theological doctrines
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Make connections between theological study and ministry, mission and discipleship.
  • Communicate theological ideas clearly in a range of contexts
  • Begin to use appropriate theological vocabulary with confidence.
Key Skills:
  • Identify, gather and evaluate source materials for a specific purpose
  • Evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches, communicating their findings sensitively and respectfully, showing self-awareness about their own beliefs, commitments and prejudices;
  • Carry out a guided task that involves: independent inquiry, management of time and resources; using IT; meeting deadlines; evaluating the task and learning from it.
  • Reflect on personal learning and development in relation to Christian formation.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lectures provide content, a conceptual framework and a survey of approaches within a subject area that enable students to locate their learning in a wider context, to make connections with other disciplines, and to evaluate and apply their learning to different contexts.
  • The module will be assessed by a written assignment and a presentation.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours Attendance Monitored
Lectures 16 1.75 32
Independent Study 168
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Written Assessment Component Weighting: 50%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Assignment 2500 words 100%
Component: Presentation Component Weighting: 50%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Presentation 20 minutes 100%

Formative Assessment:


â–  Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.