February 2, 2026
February 2, 2026
St Mark’s is pleased to offer two foundation subjects for audit in the first session of 2026: Early Church History and Introduction to Old Testament Studies.
Both subjects provide an excellent opportunity for those seeking to deepen their knowledge of the Bible and Christian history, without the pressure of assessment. Auditing students participate fully in classes but are not required to complete essays or exams.
Thursdays, 2–5pm | In-person or online | $400
Led by Dr Michael Gladwin, this subject traces the dramatic development of Christianity from the Apostolic Fathers through to the major councils of Nicaea and Chalcedon.
Students will explore the contributions of early Christian apologists, examine church-state relations during the Constantinian dynasty, and engage with the writings of major figures including Irenaeus, Origen, Athanasius, the Cappadocian Fathers, Jerome and Augustine of Hippo.
The subject also addresses early Christian monasticism, the persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire, heterodox movements, and questions of ethnicity and gender in the early church.
Mondays, 5.30–8.30pm | In-person or online | $400
Dr Amy Erickson introduces students to the contents of the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) and the basic scholarly tools used in Old Testament studies.
This foundational subject surveys the formation of the Old Testament canon while focusing on selected texts from the Torah (Pentateuch), Prophets, Writings and Apocrypha. Students will develop skills in exegesis and interpretation, exploring diverse literary genres including Hebrew narrative, poetry and rhetoric.
Particular attention is given to issues of oral and textual transmission, historical and geographical context, and theological perspectives within the Old Testament.
Both subjects are available for audit at $400 per subject. Classes will be offered in hybrid mode, with students able to attend either in person on campus or online.
For more information or to enrol, please complete this short form.