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Tailored study options

Tailored units

At PTC, as well as there being online (off-campus) units, we are very happy to tailor units to suit your individual requirements. The most flexible option is what is called a ‘directed study’. A directed study is even more flexible than an online unit, since you get to have input into what the assessment items will be, in some cases what the content of the unit will be, and when assessment items are due.

For a directed study, regular on-campus attendance is not required. As part of the individualised experience of a directed study, your lecturer will personally discuss your work and progress with you over the duration of the unit.

A typical directed study takes an existing unit (see PTC’s list of units), replaces on-campus lectures with set reading or lecture videos, and adds assessment items that often follow what on-campus students undertake but adjusted to suit you.

Some examples of recent directed studies:

H. wanted to enrol in a theology unit, but was going for an overseas holiday in the middle of semester and so would not meet attendance requirements. She enrolled in the unit as a directed study. The lectures were video recorded and she watched them when she was able. She chose to undertake the same assessment items as on-campus students (2 essays), but a straightforward assignment was added in which she had to draw up a summary of the lecture recordings, to help her to engage fully with the overall unit material. We allowed H. to attend on-campus lectures, too, when she could and if she wanted.

F. had time constraints and could not enrol in Continental Reformation when it was offered. Instead of attending lectures, He was required to read through the lecturer’s notes for the unit and draw up a summary. He was also very pleased that he did not have to sit the exam that is usually required for this unit - he completed two essays rather than one essay and an exam. He performed well in the unit and won a Church History prize that year.

You may undertake up to 4 directed studies in any one course of study (and no more than 2 in any one field). Speak to the relevant lecturer and the Academic Dean to make arrangements.

Capstone experiences and projects

Rather than undertaking the usual assessment items for a unit (multiple essays, exams, etc), you can complete a capstone experience or a project. A project is an extended piece of writing, ranging from 6,000 words (12cps) to 16,000 words (36cps). You will design the project topic or research question in interaction with the lecturer. The MDiv and MTS require at least one capstone experience or project.

Speak to the relevant lecturer and the Academic Dean to make arrangements.

Online

As part of the flexible study options for you at PTC, online study is available.