The CCRS is awarded by the Board of Religious Studies on behalf of the Bishop's Conference of England and Wales. It is recommended for any teacher who wishes to teach in a Catholic school as well as anyone seeking to deepen their knowledge and understanding in Catholic faith and theology. Any person who is or wishes to be involved in Catholic education and formation may apply for this course. This includes those involved in Religious Education in schools, Parish Catechesis and other ministries in the Church and anyone who wishes to follow the course for faith development or personal interest.
CCRS Online brings together distance learning and online education. Modules are hosted in the university’s virtual learning site and there is no requirement for campus attendance. Media-rich learning resources invite independent study and reflection together with interactive and collaborative exchange among tutors and students.
This online course allows for flexible, modular study to suit the needs of adult learners. Modules run throughout the academic year. Most students opt to study one module each term and so complete the course over two years or longer unless prior agreement has been reached with the course leader. Some students study the whole course online while others enter the course having completed previous modules elsewhere. It is possible to transfer into the CCRS Online from another CCRS centre providing that the entire Certificate (all eight units) is completed within a period of five years following registration with the Board of Studies.
Find out more at the Board of Religious Studies website.
The CCRS course requires successful completion of eight online modules of which six are core theological modules and two are specialist modules chosen from a range available.
Additional specialist modules will become available in due course.
1. When can I apply for the course?
Currently we split the year into three terms, commencing: January, May and September. We accept applications at any time in the year and will register you for the next available intake date.
2. How much is the course?
Each module is £75 and there are 8 modules to complete. There is also a one off charge of £25 to register with the Board of Religious Studies.
3. How do I apply?
Please email ccrsonline@hope.ac.uk to request a registration form. You will then be asked to fill it in and email it back as an attachment.
4. What if I am unable to finish the course?
Since CCRS Online is set out as a 5 year 'roll on, roll off' course it is likely that you would be able to complete all modules. If however you have to withdraw, any modules you passed will be saved for when you are able to continue.
5. What if I want to skip a term?
It is possible to defer your studies for a short time and your student account with us will be made dormant.
6. Can I study two modules at once?
Our normal policy is for students to study one module per term. This is unless they have applied to take two modules simultaneously and have demonstrated that their personal circumstances allow them to do so. Approval is needed for this from the Course Director.
7. How is the course assessed?
Each module carries online attendence and participation requirements which means completing the weekly study topics and activities. Each module also has a short final written assessment of approximately 1500 words.
8. I have studied CCRS with another provider, what do I do?
We need a letter or written communication from your previous CCRS centre which clearly states your Board of Studies registration number (if known) and gives confirmation of the dates and modules passed.
Please email ccrsonline@hope.ac.uk to request further information and a course registration form.
For other enquiries please ring 0151 291 3363 or 0151 291 3093.
