The MPhil, DMin and PhD research degrees offered through Mattersey Hall are higher degrees of the University of Wales, supervised in association with the Centre for Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies and the School of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Wales Bangor. 

Both MPhil (Master of Philosophy) and PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) degrees are examined entirely by dissertation and oral examination (or ‘viva’). The MPhil dissertation runs to approximately 60,000 words and the PhD dissertation to 80,000-100,000 words. The MPhil is awarded to candidates who have undertaken research, and who have critically investigated a topic and undertaken a systematic analysis of data, resulting in a contribution to knowledge in their general field of scholarship and demonstrated understanding of appropriate research methodologies. PhD candidates must have undertaken original research resulting in an independent and original contribution to knowledge. In both cases the thesis must be a work of substance.

The DMin requires a dissertation of 50,000 words (which will be defended at a viva) and the completion of six taught modules in leadership, ministry and practical theology. Candidates who already hold an appropriate and relevant Master's degree may be exempt from at least some of the taught modules.
 
Supervision, which is offered jointly by appropriate members of academic staff at Mattersey Hall and at the University of Wales Bangor, is available in the areas of:

Biblical Studies

Pentecostal History and Theology

Leadership and Ministry Studies

Missions

Music and Worship

Within these areas it is possible to carry out research on topics that are of particular interest to Pentecostals and charismatic. For example, studies on healing, the exercise of spiritual gifts, theologies of baptism or communion, church growth, leadership, church administration and structure, children’s work, youth work, musical ministry, preaching, prayer, denominational or missionary society history and Pentecostal/charismatic biography are all feasible research topics.
 
The library at Mattersey Hall contains a rich variety of Pentecostal and charismatic publications. In addition the Donald Gee Research Centre located at the college gives access to a unique range of valuable archival documentation spanning the twentieth century; it is particularly strong on the early years of Pentecostalism in the UK.
 
Potential research students should normally have a good honours degree and have completed a master’s degree that includes a substantial dissertation. Variation in these requirements may be possible where the student has already demonstrated research competence in other ways (e.g. by publication). As a first step prospective students are encouraged to contact Mattersey Hall Graduate School to discuss these matters informally - we will then help you work out a research proposal for formal submission. As part of the application process we will ask you to attend at least one of our doctoral seminars, which are held annually in September and during the Easter vacation.

Please note that we have massive demand for a limited number of places on our doctoral programme and we therefore have to limit ourselves to accepting only the very best applicants.