Theology Summer School
Dive into Theology Beyond the Syllabus: A Summer of Thoughtful Inquiry
Embark on an illuminating exploration of Theology at Minds Underground's Theology Summer School, designed for Year 12 students eager to delve into philosophical and theological theories and ideas.
Uncover the profound mysteries: Does God exist within the constraints of time? Can we establish the existence of God through reason alone? Is there a perfect ethical theory to live your life by? If these enquiries captivate your curiosity, our Theology Summer School is the perfect setting for your intellectual journey. Join Minds Underground™ for a tailored University Preparation Summer School, designed to elevate your understanding of theology and enhance your applications to top UK universities.
Immerse yourself in dynamic online group sessions led by our Oxbridge-educated Theology tutors, gaining insights into pivotal theological topics and debates. This course fosters the development of critical thinking skills within a challenging academic environment, laying a great foundation for crafting a compelling UCAS personal statement and excelling in Theology Oxbridge interviews.
Location: Online
Student Age: 15 - 18
Duration: 8 Weeks
Hours: 12 hours (Weekly 1.5hr session)
Dates: July - August
Why Join the Minds Underground Theology Summer School for Top UK & Oxbridge Theology Applicants?
Strengthen Theological Knowledge For University Application Success
Gain exposure to fundamental theological theories and concepts, challenging you beyond school curricula and providing a solid groundwork essential for successful university applications and studies in Theology and Philosophy.
Guidance from Oxford and Cambridge-educated Theology Graduates
Participate in interactive online sessions led by experienced Oxbridge-educated Theology tutors, offering invaluable insights and mentorship to enhance your Theology education. Our tutors are experienced in all aspects of Theology university application preparation.
Hone Analytical Thinking and Debate Skills To Excel in University Interviews & Beyond
Sharpen your analytical and debating skills through engaging discussions on intricate theological concepts, preparing you for the academic rigour of university studies. Each session is structured like an Oxbridge seminar to stimulate high level debate and analysis.
Hone Key Skills Such as Ethical Reasoning and Logical Reasoning
Students will learn how to hone skills in logical reasoning, enabling them to identify and construct sound arguments, and assess the validity of claims. This will set students up for success in Oxbridge (Oxford and Cambridge) Theology interviews, which are designed to assess a range of skills and qualities in candidates, including ethical and logical reasoning skills.
Benefit From a Carefully Tailored and Current Curriculum
Our Oxbridge Theology tutors will ensure you gain exposure to cutting edge university level ideas and contemporary debates. Students will leave the course with a deeper understanding of ethical theories and principles, fostering the ability to critically evaluate ethical dilemmas and current debates in Theology.
Craft an Exceptional Theology Personal Statement
Students will be able to develop a compelling personal statement through exposure to high-level topics and ideas, ensuring their university application showcases their passion and aptitude beyond school studies. Each session comes with a wealth of further reading ideas for students to delve deeper into topic areas covered.
A Taster of Theology Summer Course Topics
Life and Thought of Religious Hinduism and Buddhism
This session provides an introduction to the life and thought of religious Hinduism and Buddhism through an examination of the historical context, to provide an overview of the key beliefs and practices. The session will be thematic, analysing key concepts such as karma, rebirth and reincarnation from a historical and contextual perspective. These practices have ethical, religious and philosophical insights which are mutually challenging and additionally interrogate many of the presumptions of the Abrahamic faiths.
Ethics and Faith: Is There a Perfect Ethical Theory to Live Your Life By?
An overview of the major ethical theories as developed by western theology and philosophy, including utilitarianism, Kant's deontological ethics and moral argument, Fletcher's situation ethics and Aristotle's virtue ethics. We shall question whether it is possible to live your life according to one ethical theory, and if there even exists such a concept as a holistic ethical theory - questioning the very essence of actions based on an ethical theory and the 'blind-spot' of ethics.
Islamic Mysticism (Sufism)
Through several examples of Medieval Sufi poetry and writing, we shall open the discussion of Islamic mysticism and what this entails; including the development of the Sufi movement from a historical perspective. We shall particularly focus on the texts of al-Ghazali and Ibn Arabi, reflecting on theories of knowledge, renunciation and metaphysical systems.
The Ontological Argument: Can We Establish the Existence of God Through Reason Alone?
Ontological arguments attempt to establish the existence of God a priori, relying on claims we can know by reason alone. Arguments of this kind have attracted a lot of attention because, despite their aura of trickery, they are strangely difficult to unpick. Here, we will examine various styles of ontological arguments (from Descartes, Anselm and Plantinga) and see whether any of them succeed in establishing the existence of God through reason alone.
If There is a God, Does God Exist in Time?
According to theism, God is an eternal being. There are two ways to cash out this notion of eternality. Either God is an eternal being that exists outside of time, or God is eternal and exists within time, at every moment of time. Atheists argue that inconsistencies in God’s nature arise by positing him as either temporal or atemporal, and that therefore God cannot exist. How might the theist resist this claim? Here, we will try and reconcile God’s relationship with time, demonstrating that if God exists, it is far more plausible that he exists within time.
Tackling Key Theological Questions
In this final session we will look at how to approach and tackle potential Theology university interview questions using the knowledge we have gained. This will be an opportunity to employ all the knowledge of the previous sessions into a sustained debate. The session will cover examples of commonly asked interview questions (and answers!), and strategies for answering difficult questions across various formats with a particular focus on theoretical/ abstract questions.
Learn From Inspiring Oxbridge Theology Graduates
Example Cambridge Theology Tutor: Dan
Dan graduated from St John’s College of Cambridge University with a degree in Theology and Religious Studies, having been awarded the prestigious Sheikh Zayed prize for distinction in Islamic Studies. He specialised in Buddhism and Islam, particularly Islamic mysticism, whilst also writing a thesis examining and comparing the philosophies of Ramanuja and Augustine. He has a particular interest in Sufism and Sufi poetry, as well as the practicality of reincarnation and the teachings of Augustine on original sin. Dan is an experienced tutor and university application mentor, supporting students in application for both Theology and Philosophy courses.
Booking the Theology Summer School
Book now to ensure your spot in the Summer School. Our booking page includes 2025 dates and pricing. We limit class sizes to facilitate group discussion, tailored support and individual feedback.
Are You Looking For Further Support For Your Theology University Application?
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The Summer School is designed to provide exciting talking points for your personal statement. If you are looking for some one-to-one tuition tailored to your specific application, contact us to arrange sessions with an Oxbridge Theology tutor!
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Are you preparing for future interviews at Oxford, Cambridge or other top universities? Our Oxbridge Theology tutors prepare students for all formats of interview question, hosting preparatory sessions and mock interviews. Learn more here.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ – Theology Summer School
What are the benefits of attending the Theology Summer School?
Attending the Theology Summer School aims to enhance critical thinking, communication, logical and ethical reasoning skills, and analytical skills—attributes highly valued in university admissions. The online course also offers networking opportunities, guidance for university applications, and a broader understanding of the rich field of Theology.
Are there prerequisites or prior knowledge required to attend the summer school?
While prior knowledge of Theology is beneficial, it is not a prerequisite. The program is designed to cater to a range of knowledge levels, from beginners to those with a foundational understanding of Theology.
Can the Theology Summer School help with university applications?
Yes, indeed. This academic programme includes guidance on writing a compelling personal statement, preparing for university interviews, and gaining a deeper understanding of what universities seek in prospective Theology students. This can significantly enhance your university application process.
Who can attend the Theology Summer School?
The summer school is open to Year 12 students with an interest in Theology, aspiring to pursue higher education in Theology-related disciplines. It offers valuable insights and guidance to aid in making informed decisions about future academic and career paths. Our programme is also open to ambitious and curious Year 10 and Year 11s.
What is the focus of the Theology Summer School?
Our Year 12 Theology Summer School is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of theological principles, theories, and their real-world applications. Participants will explore diverse topics such as Functionalism, Sufism and Ontology.
How can I register for Minds Underground’s Theology Summer School?
The steps to join us for our Theology Summer School 2024 are simple. Registration details and enrolment information can be found on the Summer School booking page. Complete the registration process and we will send you logistical details a month or so before the course commences.
What is the schedule for the virtual sessions?
The Theology Summer School sessions take place weekly, with each session lasting 1.5 hours. The course runs from July to September, providing a flexible and comprehensive learning experience.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of the Theology Summer School?
Participants who successfully complete the programme are able to request a certificate of participation, which can be a valuable addition to your academic achievements and university applications.
Can I expect personal guidance and support during the Theology Summer School?
Absolutely. Our Summer School is designed to provide personal guidance and support. We keep class sizes small to ensure lots of interaction and individual attention. You'll have the opportunity to interact with our team of experts, ask questions, and receive assistance with your academic and university preparation needs.
Is there an option to follow the Theology Summer School offline if I can’t attend the live sessions?
How does the offline programme work, and what materials will I receive?
Students choosing the offline programme for the Theology Summer School will receive access to recordings of all online sessions, lecture notes, assignments, and resources tailored to the topics covered. This ensures that even if you cannot join the live classes, you’ll have everything needed to fully explore the theological themes and discussions.
Can I still interact with instructors and ask questions if I choose the offline option?
While the offline Theology Summer School doesn’t provide live interaction with instructors, we encourage participants to email their questions. Our Theology tutors are committed to supporting your learning and will respond to help you deepen your understanding of the course material.
Are there specific deadlines or timelines to follow for the offline programme?
The Theology Summer School’s offline programme is designed to offer flexibility, allowing you to progress through the theological studies at your own pace within the overall course duration. To maximise your learning experience, we recommend staying aligned with the suggested schedule so you have ample time to complete assignments and submit follow-up questions.
How do I enrol in the offline programme, and is there a separate registration process?
Enrolling in the offline Theology Summer School programme is simple. Use the same registration process as for the live online sessions, available on our website. When registering, you can select the offline programme option. Access to recorded lectures and Theology materials will be provided after each session.
Is there a difference in the cost between the live and offline programme options?
The cost for both the live online Theology Summer School and the offline programme is the same. This ensures all students, regardless of their chosen format, can access a comprehensive theological education without additional costs.
Can I switch from the live programme to the offline programme (or vice versa) if my circumstances change?
Yes, you can switch between the live online Theology Summer School and the offline programme if your situation changes. Contact our team to arrange adjustments to your participation in the course.
How do I access the recorded sessions and materials for the offline programme?
Once you’ve registered for the Theology Summer School offline programme, you’ll receive clear instructions on how to access the recorded sessions and materials through our online platform. These details will be shared with you before the start of the Theology course.
Will there be any assessments during the Theology online summer school?
The Theology online summer school primarily focuses on immersive learning and skill development rather than formal assessments. The emphasis is on exploring advanced topics, problem-solving, and honing essential skills for future academic pursuits.
How do I contact Minds Underground for further enquiries?
If you have any questions or require additional information, please feel free to contact us through the contact form on our website or send an email to enquiries@mindsunderground.com, quoting your contact number in case your email ends up in our Spam folder! Our team will be happy to assist you with any queries.