How long is the AT3 Apprenticeship?
2 Years
Is there a deadline for applying?
For the AT3 Apprenticeship Program, you can apply at any point during the year but there are deadlines for each projected departure date (this is the date on which you would be deployed to the UK).
Projected Jan 2027 Departure Application Deadline: 19 March 2026
Projected Aug 2027 Departure Application Deadline: 23 October 2026
What are the education options during the AT3 Apprenticeship?
Most of the theological training AT3 offers is delivered by Union School of Theology (UST). Union is for anyone who wants to grow both spiritually and academically – in their understanding of the Christian gospel, in their ministry skills, and in personal formation.
You will need to be open to discussion about which course meets your needs best, based on your apprenticeship start date and previous theological education.
Each UST course varies in fees, although it is fundraised as part of your total apprenticeship cost. Current costs and break down of fees can be found on their website.
Union Masters of Theology (MTh)
The Master of Theology is designed to strengthen leaders in their gospel ministry. It deepens leaders’ biblical and theological knowledge while strengthening their pastoral, preaching and leadership skills. It’s designed for those who already have a theology undergraduate degree or significant vocational ministry experience (typically around 8 years).
The MTh format includes online lecture days, independent study, course work, and intensive residential learning weeks,
Union Graduate Diploma (GDip)
The Graduate Diploma in Theology is for those who already have a university degree (other than theology) and a good biblical foundation. It is equivalent to the final year of a BA, providing robust education in biblical, theological and pastoral studies to equip students for fruitful ministry.
The learning format for the Union GDip includes one lecture day per week for two semesters per year, with independent study and course work. It is delivered through local Learning Communities, so students benefit from world-class teaching and resources in their own local context and study part-time.
Union Master of Arts (MA)
It is a degree aimed at those with a bachelor's degree in another subject (or equivalent - please get in touch to discuss this if you’re unsure) and amounts to about two-thirds of an MDiv. The Master of Arts is a US-style MA, combining theological depth with a focus on growth in your spiritual life and ministry skills. This qualification is not a UK MA qualification, instead it is an American MA accredited by Kairos University.
The content is taught via learning communities (Zoom) every week, with independent study and course work, primarily delivered via recorded lectures. Students are required to have a vocational mentor who gives oversight to their ministry
Other education options are available. Fill in a 'Let's Talk' form and someone from our staff team would be happy to discuss them with you.
How much does it cost?
In addition to course fees you’ll need to raise enough money to cover your cost-of-living while in the UK, which can vary depending on where you are placed. AT3 will provide you with a budget for the total amount you'll need to raise. This will cover your visas, flights, course fees and cost of living. Those who will be placed in more expensive city centres will likely need to raise more. For more information about costs please get in touch!
Are there scholarships available?
Not yet, but we hope to develop a scholarship programme in the near future.
How will I get paid?
This is a fully self-funded programme. This means you will develop your own network of financial supporters to support you for the 2 years you’ll be serving and training in the UK. All funds are raised through one of our partner organizations.
Is there any help in raising my support?
AT3 will train and coach you on support raising but does not have any funds to contribute to your support. All funds will be raised through one of our partner organisations.
Where does it take place?
We have opportunities for church placements across the UK (England, Scotland & Wales), we will work with you to determine the best possible church placement for you. Placements will be based on your gifts, skills, prior training, and long-term ministry goals. Where your theological training happens depends on the degree course you take. Graduate Diplomas will be delivered in regional learning communities across the UK. Master’s level training will be delivered at the Union School of Theology campus in South Wales.
Where will I live?
Housing arrangements are to be made in conjunction with your placement church. For some that may mean being given a room in the house of a church member, for others that will mean finding your own apartment or house. We are asking each local church to help US recruits cover the cost of their housing, but there is no guarantee that churches will be able to help.
Will I need a visa?
Yes. We will help you through the entire process. The cost of visas comes out of your fund raised money.
Is the theological training accredited?
All degrees delivered by Union School of Theology are fully accredited. There are also other accredited and non-accredited education options available, please get in touch if you'd like to find out more.
Will AT3 help me plant a church?
AT3 will not be initiating church plants. Our conviction is that local churches plant churches. Being part of AT3 means you are part of a much larger network of church planting churches and organisations.
