The Certificate in Mission Studies Diploma Course

Tainan Theological College and Seminary (TTCS) is the oldest theological institution in Taiwan, established in 1876.

The TTCS community consists of 280 students enrolled in various programmes plus 18 full-time faculty members. Though most students and all full-time faculty members are from Taiwan, the college has a handful students from Africa, the Pacific and elsewhere in Asia and a few adjunct faculty from other countries.

The PCT/CWM Scholarship Programme

A scholarship programme initiated by the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT) in collaboration with TTCS and the Council for World Mission (CWM) in 1994 eventually developed into the Certificate in Mission Studies Diploma Course.  More than 50 students have completed this programme. They have come from around the world. They bring a mosaic of interests and experiences. Some have been ordained experienced pastors, a few theological teachers and others recent graduates from varied theological faculties. 

A candidate for the Certificate in Mission Studies is expected to successfully complete all courses offered in English and to participate in practical training organized during the semester break. Four of the courses are regarded as “core” covering Theological Methodology, Contextual Theologies, Reading the Bible in People’s Context, and Introduction to Theological Development in Taiwan.  The remaining courses vary from term to term. Less formal instruction in Taiwan’s languages, culture and history is frequently offered on a non-credit basis. According to Taiwan’s law, an international student must maintain a “full time” schedule or risk losing her or his visa.

Certificate students attend class alongside other students who undertake scholarly research and reflection for pastoral or teaching ministries through broadening theological knowledge to gain research skills for more advanced research degrees. 

Depending on the nature of the scholarship award, one may receive a stipend, book allowance and homeward shipping allowance.

 

Student Life

Students who receive scholarships through the Council for World Mission are expected to participate in experiential learning programmes outside of class time. Those who have scholarships from other agencies are welcome to join these activities, though  payment of transportation and other fees may be required.

Meals are arranged through the Student Association operated meal plan, which provides board from Monday through Friday. The college dining facility does not operate on weekends.  Limited access to weekend meals for international students is provided through a generous contribution to TTCS from the Chia-yi Presbytery Ecumenical Work Committee and other agencies.

Library

The TTCS library contains more than 60,000 books, 36,000 of which are in English. More than 80 of the Journals available are also in English. The computerized cataloging system is maintained for easy access. The computer catalogue can be accessed from anywhere in the world at http://61.221.202.244/library/ 

Admission Requirements                                         Applicants who are members of CWM churches apply through their national church headquarters to CWM for admission to the programme. Applicants who are from non-CWM churches apply directly to Tainan Theological College and Seminary.

1. Eligible candidates must be endorsed by their national churches for participation in the programme.  Ordinarily a candidate will already hold a 4-year (or equivalent) university or Bible College degree from a school recognized by a regional accrediting agency.                                                                2. Certificate students must have sufficient proficiency in the English language to undertake graduate level coursework in that language. (TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required at the discretion of TTCS.)                                          3. Those who apply without CWM sponsorship must pay the application fee of 1,800 New Taiwan dollars (approx US$57, Euros 47).

Application Procedure                                                 The application form for the course is identical to that for the Master of Theology degree, and can be obtained from the office of the TTCS registrar. Applications must be supported with the following documents:                                     1. A recent curriculum vita;                                                2. Official Transcripts of marks and photocopies of diplomas;                                                              3. An essay of at least 400 words detailing the applicant’s perspective on theology and Christian ministry.                                                          4. Two letters of recommendation assessing suitability of the applicant for graduate level study.                                                                           5. TOEFL or IELTS Exam report sent directly from the test administering organization (copies sent by applicants are NOT acceptable.)                                                         6. Payment of the application fee.         

Completed application forms and all supporting documentation must reach the admissions office before 31^st May to be considered for admission in September. 

Costs

Set fees:                                  Tuition and academic fees:              US$ 5,000

Housing:                            US$ 1,000

Estimated Expenses

Board and local travel:                 US$ 2,300

Books and miscellaneous expenditures:   US$   700

Visa and Residence Permit             US$   300

 

Attendance

In many countries, class attendance may not be a requirement at the university level. However, learning, discussing, and sharing during class time is crucial to the education system of Tainan Theological College and Seminary. Therefore, attendance is expected and failure to attend classes can affect one’s final grade. Formal description of attendance requirements is set forth in the TTCS Academic Regulations section on Class Attendance

 

Financial Aid

Awards and travel grants may be available through a student’s church, National Council of Churches.

PCT/Pacific Island Church Scholarships                         Available to endorsed members of Pacific Island Churches.  Apply to the ecumenical committee of the General Assembly ecu@mail.pct.org.tw AFTER admission is granted.

CCA Travel Grants                                              Available to students endorsed by the central office of their CCA member churches. Contact the CCA  egy@cca.org.hk after admission is granted.