Degree
Degree in Biblical and Intercultural Studies
(BA Hons Degree)
What Is The Degree Programme?
The Degree is an in-depth programme that provides you with holistic preparation to be an effective, reflective practitioner in Christian mission. It develops and enhances your communication skills and your ability to analyse, evaluate, design and apply suitable approaches in diverse cultural contexts. This Degree builds spiritual maturity and personal development: this is achieved through a deeper Biblical and theological understanding, enhanced cross-cultural engagement, and the development of relevant ministry and practical skills.
If you are taking the three-year degree, the first year of study is the same as the foundational level 4 Certificate and the second year (the first year for those taking the BA in two years) is the same as the final year of the Diploma programme. In the final year, students take three core modules. One of these is Research in Mission, in which you can write an extended research thesis or an extended arts project. In addition, you may select seven elective modules from a wide choice of vocational specialist areas.
Why Choose The Degree Programme?
The Degree in Biblical and Intercultural Studies is aimed at those who want to get to the heart of intercultural mission. This unique programme takes a holistic approach to learning, vocational training, and understanding the Christian faith in different contexts. It provides excellent, practice-based learning through participation and engagement within our friendly learning community and can be completed over two or three years full-time, or four to six years part-time depending on previous experience and education.
How Can I Access The Programme?
The Degree Programme is very flexible. It can be accessed either residentially on campus, or remotely from anywhere in the World by joining live classes via Zoom, and either full time (2 to 3 years) or part-time (usually 4 to 6 years). The programme makes use of a variety of learning approaches ensuring an engaging and vibrant intercultural learning community of people from all around the World. Learning approaches make use of cutting-edge digital learning technology, live interaction with tutors, workshops, practical placements, tutorials and interactive discussion forums.
If you would like to discuss how this might work for you, please contact us.
What Will I Study On The Degree Programme?
Further down the page you can see a list of the modules available on the Degree Programme.
What Qualification Will I Get?
A BA (Hons) Degree in Biblical and Intercultural Studies which is validated by The Open University.
Where Can This Lead?
Our international Christian ministry and missionary training is a springboard for wherever God wants to take you. Although students often do not know exactly what God is calling them to do when they enrol, most put their ministry and missionary training into practice as soon as they complete their Biblical and Intercultural Studies course. Here is a selection of the roles that our past students have taken up:
Going into full-time ministry.
Bible teaching.
Working for Christian mission organisations.
Working in aviation or engineering for Christian causes.
Helping to translate and publish Bibles.
Helping to plant and develop new churches.
Ministering as a doctor or a nurse.
Founding or co-founding new organisations and projects.
Working as a Christian in a secular organisation.
Creative arts ministry
Christian development work
Leaders of Christian mission networks
What Are The Entry Criteria?
Qualifications: A minimum of two A Levels or equivalent, and relevant experience.
Minimum age: You much be at least 21 years of age for an OU-validated degree (although the College will consider applicants who are 19 and 20 years old).
English language: OU-validated courses are taught in English, and you will need to meet the academic English entry requirement which applies to your individual circumstances. However, if you are coming to study in the UK from overseas you will also need to meet UK visa and immigration criteria.
If you are an international student, this could mean you have to sit a B2 SELT (Secure English Language Test). However, you might be exempt if you are from, or have studied a degree in, a Majority English speaking country, as defined by UKVI. Approved SELT test service providers often offer an online option.
If you are an international student in need of a SELT test, UKVI approved providers include:
If you do not need a visa, you could also consider these test providers:
For full details of other language eligibility criteria, the minimum test score requirements for those who have to take a language test, and all other entry criteria, please see the College Admissions Policy.
When Can I Start The Programme?
The OU BA programme begins in late September each year and finishes the following July.
Start Dates
Wednesday, 24 September 2025
Wednesday, 23 September 2026
Fees
Fees vary depending on how you choose to study. A full breakdown of fees is available here.
Please contact us if you need any support or guidance.
Handbooks
Undergraduate Programme Specification
All Nations Regulations for Validated Awards of The Open University
OU Student Guide: The aim of this guide is to introduce you to The Open University (OU) and explain what being registered on a programme validated by the OU means to you.
Who Leads The Programme?
Our Biblical and Intercultural Studies programme is led by Rev Dr V. J. Samkutty, along with a team of experienced and well-qualified tutors. As a team we believe in providing excellent academic training that is biblically centred, theologically reflective, culturally engaged and practically relevant.
Further Support
If you haven’t studied for a long time, it’s natural to feel a little concerned. But do not worry: throughout your time at All Nations Christian College, you will benefit from our unique blend of pastoral care and a learning support team who will help you and guide you through. If you have any questions please do get in touch.
