Work in progress

Theological Field Education (TFE) is the opportunity in the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree and the Master of Arts in Public and Pastoral Leadership (MA-PPL) degree for students to intentionally reflect on the practice of doing ministry.

Resources for Learning Communities - those who support theological students

  • TFE Program: Goals, Organization, Descriptions

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  • Assessment and Evaluation

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  • Assumptions and Definitions

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  • Constructive Feedback

    What are the key characteristics and importance of constructive feedback in theological field education?

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  • Description of the Mentor/Supervisor Role

    Vancouver School of Theology is indebted to ministry leaders in congregations and organizational leaders in social agency placements who volunteer their services as mentors/supervisors of students in their field placements.

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  • Educational Philosophy

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Answers to Learning Communities FAQs

  • I’m taking PT551 “Pastoral Identity and Practice” which includes supervision. Does this count for TFE units?
    No. This course includes supervised experience arranged by the instructor of that course and is separate from the TFE credits.
  • If a conflict emerges in my field education, what do I do?
    If any part of the teaching, learning or evaluation process breaks down, the Director of Theological Field Education must be notified immediately. Upon notification, a consultative process will be initiated to resolve the differences or to terminate the field placement agreement.
  • Do I register for TFE?
    Yes, just as you would for another course in any other term.

Learning Communities & Theological Field Placements

Vancouver School of Theology students in the Master of Divinity and the Master of Arts in Public and Pastoral Leadership programs participate in a wide range of dynamic learning communities through their field education. Placements are available in The United Church of Canada, Anglican Church of Canada and Presbyterian Church of Canada congregations, with additional placements having taken place in Lutheran, Episcopal, PC-USA, and Catholic communities of faith.

Students also engage in ministry beyond congregational settings, including placements with regional and national offices of the United Church of Canada, the Anglican Church of Canada, and the Presbyterian Church in Canada.

Our students also learn within a variety of ministry contexts such as summer church camps, campus ministries, and initiatives like Sanctuary Mental Health. Many have also found deeply meaningful experiences with community-based organizations including First United Community Ministry and Union Gospel Mission.

These diverse placements offer students the opportunity to integrate theological learning with practical ministry experience in contexts that reflect the breadth of the Church’s life and witness.

Partner With Us

We are always seeking new and continuing partnerships with communities interested in supporting theological education through field placements.

If your community or organization is interested in welcoming a student and becoming part of this formative work, we invite you to connect with our Director of Theological Field Education.

We would be delighted to hear from you.