We are able to offer two full-fees scholarships for British or British-resident* GMH/UKME PhD students who are called to work in theological education within the Church of England, to start in October 2025, covering tuition fees for the full period of study (full- or part-time). For the right candidate, the scholarship may be extended to cover accommodation**.

The aim of the scholarships is to contribute to a greater diversity of theological educators and ensure that a plurality of voices is firmly embedded in the training of the next generation of Christian leaders. We will have more, similar scholarships to offer in subsequent years.

Who are we?

Trinity College Bristol is a theological college in Bristol, teaching theology and training candidates for ordination in the Church of England. We have a flourishing postgraduate research programme. As a postgraduate student, you can study full-time, part-time, in residence at Bristol, or by distance learning. Trinity’s research degrees are fully validated by the University of Aberdeen, an ancient Scottish university with a globally recognised reputation for excellence in the study of Christian theology.

The expertise of the faculty, the confessional nature of the college, and our flourishing community of more than 60 postgraduate researchers make Trinity an excellent context in which to take one’s first steps into the academy.

Candidates must:

be British or British-resident* and of GMH/UKME heritage
meet the criteria for our existing PhD programme; and
have a calling to work in theological education and scholarship within the Church of England.

Their research may be on any theological topic.

Potential Theological Educators track

The scholarships are part of our new Potential Theological Educators track. This track will include a Level 8 seminar module running for all three years, which will cover, inter alia, classroom teaching experience, weekly or bi-weekly seminars on pedagogy, and topics in DEI. The PTE track is open to all research students of any background or heritage; the above requirements apply only to the scholarships.

How to apply

To apply for a scholarship, go to the PGR page of our website via the 'Apply' button above and follow the application procedure for a PhD. In addition to the regular supporting documents, you will need to provide a reference supporting your suitability for the scholarship. Applications for this year’s scholarships close at midday on 30 May 2025.  

* to qualify, the candidate must have lived in the UK for at least three years before starting.

** single-occupancy accommodation as a full-time resident at Trinity College for three years, for full-time study only. Applications to be assessed on need and on the strength of the application. 

Trinity College Bristol

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PhD Scholarships for GMH/UKME Potential Theological Educators