It provides training and theological education to those preparing for lay and ordained ministries in the Scottish Episcopal Church.
[1][2] The SEI was formally launched in October 2015,[1] and replaced the Theological Institute of the Scottish Episcopal Church.
Since 2016, the Scottish Episcopal Institute has been involved in the Common Awards, and as such has its academic qualifications validated by Durham University.
[3] As of 2021[update], the SEI has three formation pathways over the first three years of ministerial education:[4] The Common Awards programmes lead to a 240-credit Diploma of Higher Education, equivalent to the first two years of an English undergraduate degree (Durham University being an English university).
As ordinands headed for incumbency are expected to have a degree in theology by the end of their sixth year of training, the SEI offers the 360-credit Common Awards BA in Theology, Ministry and Mission in years four to six, requiring a further 120 credits of study (equivalent to one year full-time) on top of the diploma.