THE University of Worcester and the diocese of Hereford are teaming up to offer a new course that will enable students to use their religion in daily life.

The Bishop of Hereford and the vice chancellor of the university will sign a partnership agreement at a special ceremony on Tuesday, May 8, so they can offer a new qualification from September.

Peter Massey, lay training officer for the diocese, said: "This is great moment for all of us involved. The new Certificate in Higher Education will be offered to people in our churches and from outside the church if they want to give it a go, with a course that is religious and practical."

The course, called Education And Christian Discipleship, is aimed at encouraging ordinary people to be more active in their church and the community it serves.

It comprises six theoretical modules over two years alongside two locally based independent study modules. The course is accredited at Higher Education level one by the University of Worcester.

Mr Massey said the emphasis of the course would be on practical matters and would help people to learn and explore the Bible.

The course will be taught at the Bishop Mascall Centre in Ludlow and students who sign up for it will use the BMC Library, the Cathedral Library and the facilities of the University of Worcester on a part-time basis.