If you already know whether you want to pursue vocational or higher ed studies you can click to the links on your right for course details. However, if you need help deciding you should think about your answers to the following questions:
1. Are you more interested in practical study or do you want to learn the theory as well?
2. Do you already have a degree or other qualification (prior learning)?
Practical or Theoretical (Vocational or Academic)
It is important to understand there are two broad categories that study can fall under in adult education: vocational or academic (often called “Higher Education”).
Vocational studies are the types of courses typically offered at technical colleges and night schools. Vocational learning is more practical and hands-on. For instance, when someone does an apprenticeship they are required to attend a vocational school to supplement their on-the-job training. It’s not that vocational courses ignore the theory behind the practice, they just don’t go into as much depth as High Ed or more academic studies might. For this reason, assessment in vocational courses is competency based and usually requires the student to demonstrate a particular skill. A student will therefore receive a mark of either “competent” or “not yet competent”.
Academic studies are those we would usually associate with universities. Where vocational studies focus less on theory and more on practice, academic studies focus less on practice and more on theory. It’s not that academic studies ignore practical issues, they just don’t go into as much detail as vocational studies might. Assessment for students of Higher Ed courses usually involves writing essays or presenting reports. Students will receive one of the following grades for their assessment: high distinction, distinction, credit, pass, or fail. Academic courses are usually considered more mentally rigorous than vocational ones. Those considering a career in ministry are usually required to have a higher education qualification (in a relevant field, such as Theology).
Prior Learning
Some of us have already graduated with a degree, in which case, our pathway for further education may be altered. If you already have a degree in a non-ministry discipline, this prior learning is acknowledged and your study pathway will be different. To see the options available go to our Higher Ed Courses page.