ObjectivesThe course will give you the opportunity to: -explore and understand the interaction between philosophy and theology; -acquire the skills to engage in philosophical reflection within or upon religious traditions; -acquire the skills required for study at research degree level (MPhil or PhD). You will be encouraged to understand and analyse aspects of Biblical texts, Christian theology and Religious Studies at a significantly deeper level than in undergraduate studies.
Entry requirementsIt is very suitable for RE teachers and Christian (or other) religious ministers who would like to upgrade or update their undergraduate studies. It is also an ideal degree if you wish to pursue a one-year MA as preparation for a research degree (either MPhil or PhD), as suggested by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).
Academic titleMA Theology and Religious Studies
Course descriptionTheology and Religious Studies (MA)
Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 to 4 years part-time
Course Content
This is a flexible MA, allowing you to choose modules in the topics that interest you. You will take a core compulsory module in Research Methods and Resources in order to develop the skills necessary when undertaking a major piece of independent research. In addition, you will take three modules in topics such as:
-Old Testament Interpretation in History, Theory, and Practice
-Religion, Identity and Conflict in the Middle East
-Texts from the Hebrew Bible
-Dante, Religion and Culture
-The Theology of Paul
-The World of Islam and The West
-Continental Philosophy of Religion
-The Jewish World in the Hellenistic-Roman Era
-20th Century Theology: Barth, Rahner and Balthasar
-Phenomenology and the Turn to Religion
-Central Issues in New Testament Theology
-Islamic Thought
-Hermeneutical Theory: an Interdisciplinary Approach
-Theology and Postmodernism
-Religion, Identity and Violence in Northern Ireland
-Aesthetics, Philosohy and Religion
With the permission of the Course Co-ordinator, you may even take 30 credits’ worth of undergraduate modules instead of this additional MA module.
Please note that all module details are subject to change.
Course Structure
This course can be taken on a full-time basis over 1 year (September to September) or part-time over 2 years.
You will be required to take 120 credits of taught modules (including one compulsory module), as well as undertaking a 60-credit Dissertation on the subject of your choice.
Modules are typically assessed through a written piece of coursework.
Key facts
-The Department of Theology and Religious Studies has a long and distinguished history.
-It was awarded the highest national research rating of 5*A in the latest Research Assessment Exercise – this grade reflects the high quality of publications which the staff have produced.
-You will be part of a thriving postgraduate community that welcomes students from all over the world