Making theological education accessible
Making theological education accessible
Affordable fees and bursaries for CMS’s African Christianity programmes
by Joseph Ola,
The landscape of global Christianity has transformed dramatically – today, Africa leads the world with the largest Christian population.
As eloquently expressed by British historian Andrew Walls, “If you want to learn something about Christianity today, you must know something about Africa.”
With Christianity’s declining presence in Western nations alongside the flourishing growth of African-led churches worldwide, there’s an urgent need for theological education that addresses this new reality in mission and ministry.
For those yearning to explore the richness of African Christianity and understand its worldwide mission impact, Church Mission Society (CMS) Pioneer Mission Training offers an affordable and flexible pathway.
Many ways in to study
You can choose to study anything from an undergraduate Certificate to Bachelor (BA) and Master of Arts (MA) in Theology, Ministry and Mission, with an African focus.
Delivered in partnership with Missio Africanus, CMS equips students to engage in mission while learning from diverse global voices.
With a focus on shared learning, mutual dialogue, and real-world application, this programme prepares you to actively participate in God’s mission in your context.
With flexible online learning, prestigious Durham University validation, and generous bursary opportunities, CMS Oxford has made quality theological education more accessible than ever.
If you are new to theological study, our one-year undergraduate Certificate in Theology, Ministry and Mission with a focus on African Christianity may be the perfect starting point for you, with opportunity to transition onto the MA programme upon successful completion depending on your previous academic experience.
Undergraduate Certificate modules include:
- Introduction to Black and African Theology
- Foundations for Theology and Reflective Practice
- Mission and Evangelism
- Introduction to Church History
- Introduction to the Bible
- Global Pentecostalism
- Spirituality and Discipleship
MA modules include:
- Advanced Topic in African Church History
- Mission and Ecclesiology in Contemporary Contexts
- Research and Reflection: Resources and Methods
- Theologies in Global Perspective
- Reflective Practice: Mission and Evangelism
- Reflective Practice: Leadership and Collaboration
- Political Theology in Mission
- Dissertation
Affordable and accessible education
One of the biggest barriers to formal theological education is cost. CMS is committed to keeping fees competitively low, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder those who feel called to further their studies. For the 2025 to 2026 academic year, the programme fees are as follows:
- Undergraduate Certificate (UG Cert) in Theology, Ministry, and Mission: £3,200 (120 credits) or £4,800 (180 credits)
- Master of Arts (MA) in Theology, Ministry, and Mission: £6,600
- Durham University student fee: £302 (or £86 for Church of England Licensed Lay Ministers)
Compared to many other theological institutions, these fees remain significantly lower, making the programme accessible to a wider audience of aspiring theologians, church leaders, and missionaries.
Generous bursary opportunities
To further remove financial barriers, CMS offers a range of bursaries to help students afford their studies. These include:
- Anglican student bursaries: Anglican students worldwide can apply for bursaries covering up to 50 per cent of tuition fees, making these programmes even more affordable for those serving within the Anglican tradition.
- Non-Anglican student bursaries: Recognising the diversity of the student body, CMS can also provide some financial support for non-Anglican students, ensuring that everyone can benefit from this unique programme.
- Additional support: Other funding options may be available for those engaged in mission and ministry, and students are encouraged to enquire about further possibilities for financial aid.
Investing in your calling
The CMS African Christianity stream is more than just an academic programme – it is a movement aimed at equipping post-colonial missionaries for effective cross-cultural engagement.
As Dr Harvey Kwiyani, the African Christianity Programme Lead, puts it: “We’re hoping to create a movement of post-colonial missionaries who will be able to work across cultures and races.”
Dr Sheila Akomiah-Conteh, lecturer on the undergraduate programme adds, “Whether you’re seeking specialist knowledge, personal growth, ministry preparation, or an academic challenge, our African Christianity programmes offer a rich, rewarding experience for students at any stage of life.”
With online study options, world-class faculty, and a strong community of learners from diverse backgrounds, this programme provides an unparalleled opportunity to grow in knowledge and practical mission experience without financial worries holding you back.
Take the next step
If you are considering joining this transformative learning community, don’t let cost be a barrier. Apply for a bursary and take the next step towards equipping yourself for effective mission and ministry. With CMS Oxford’s commitment to affordability and accessibility, there has never been a better time to engage with African Christianity in a global context.
Browse the website for more information on fees and bursaries and the application process. Do register for any of our upcoming open evenings, which run online from 7pm to 8.30pm (UK time) on 22 April and 3 June 2025.
