Foundational Apologetics (Thurs Autumn 2024)

The course consists of weekly, online sessions which begin with an encouraging bible devotional and prayer. The main part of the live session is divided into two seminars:

• a foundational apologetics issue, based on a pre-recorded lecture that students are required to watch in advance, exploring topics such as: critical thinking, the existence of God, science & religion, worldviews and human value.
• a frequent apologetics question (FAQ) talk which we will watch together based on a question such as: How can we have meaningful conversations about faith? Do science and faith mix? Why would a good God allow suffering? How can anyone believe in a dead man rising?

The seminars are highly interactive, with space for questions and discussion on the issue where students are invited to engage with and respond to the topics and questions that were raised in the talk. We’ll dig into the topic further and talk through practical advice for tackling objections and questions that may come up in conversation.

As part of this course, students will learn within an online community, providing an opportunity to share ideas and challenges, pray together, and connect with others with a passion for apologetics from all over the world.

To encourage you to put what you’ve learned into practice, there is a practical assignment set in the mid-course break.This consists of a conversational interview with a friend, with a short written reflection to submit.

The cost of the course is £380.

You can pay upfront in total, or in three instalments.

We offer a 10% discount to each person signing up as part of a group of 3 or more. Email courses@theocca.org to find out more.

If finances are a barrier to joining the course, please do get in touch as we are able to consider offering limited bursaries. Please be aware that we cannot offer full bursaries, and the amount offered is unlikely to be over 50% of the course price.

What are the requirements of this course?

This course is open to anyone over 18, with no specific educational requirements. However, in order to complete the course please be aware that you need to attend at least 75% of live contact time sessions (Thursdays 9:30am-12:00pm UK time) and complete all pre-required material including watching pre-recorded lectures, and assignment.

What is the weekly time commitment?

The total time commitment per week is 3 hours: 30 minutes in preparation watching a pre-recorded lecture, and 2.5 hours live contact time.

If I can’t attend the live sessions, can I still sign up?

Unfortunately the live sessions are a required part of the course – you’re expected to attend 75% of them. If you can’t make these, keep an eye out for our other courses and events that will be coming soon!

What is the assignment?

The assignment is a conversational interview with a friend, with a short written reflection to upload.

Can I sign up as part of a group?

We do offer group discounts – contact us to find out more! We’d love for you to take part along with your household or church group. Every member of the group will still need to register individually, using a special link.

Is there an age limit on the course?

Anyone over the age of 18 is welcome! We have a whole mix of backgrounds so please don’t think this course isn’t for you – if you have any specific queries about whether this course is right for you, please do contact us.

If I don’t get a place on this course, will there be another chance to do it?

Yes there will! We run this course in Autumn, Spring and Summer. There are also some alternative timeslots which may suit you better – take a look at our upcoming dates page.

Is this the only course you run?

It isn’t! Check out our website to see more courses and events, including our Confident Faith series for small groups, the One Year Hybrid course, and our summer events in Oxford.