Course summary
This Ecology and Spirituality Masters course offers a unique look at how spirituality, religion, and philosophy connect to the natural world, providing you with tools to examine some of today’s biggest questions. Together, we will consider whether spirituality and religion contribute to ecological crises or if they hold potential solutions for a healthier, more sustainable planet. This is a chance to explore how spiritual and philosophical ideas about nature and our planet shape our personal values and decisions in life. Through your studies, you’ll learn to use critical thinking to consider your own values and beliefs and how they impact the world around you. This course is designed to be a personal and experiential journey, inviting you to explore your inner landscape and how it connects to your actions in the outer world. By looking closely at our planetary connection, you’ll learn ways to shape your own path in contributing to a more resilient, connected, and harmonious world. This programme goes beyond traditional environmental studies, extending its focus to a cosmic environment. You’ll have the chance to study our wider universe, exploring our connection to the sky, planets, and stars. This exciting module brings together ecology and the cosmos, letting you explore our place in the wider universe. Through this programme, you’ll gain knowledge of both personal and collective solutions for sustainable living, taking an informed approach to finding balance between humanity and nature. The course’s combination of academic skills, self-exploration, and cosmic perspective offers a meaningful approach to sustainability and resilience in today’s world.
Modules
At UWTSD, our approach to learning and teaching for the Ecology and Spirituality (MA) prioritises critical thinking and exploration. We believe in combining academic rigour with personal growth, supporting each student’s unique journey as they investigate their relationship to ecology, spirituality, and the cosmic environment through expert guidance and a rich array of resources. Year 1 In the first year, you will explore core topics in Ecology and Spirituality, engaging with discussions on how spiritual and cultural beliefs impact ecological understanding. Compulsory modules introduce contemporary approaches to cosmology and environmental thought, helping you build a foundation in spiritual ecology and its role in today’s world. Optional modules offer deeper insight into areas like Sacred Geography and Environmental Philosophy. Year 2 The second year is devoted to independent research, allowing you to deepen your expertise in ecology and spirituality through a dissertation on a topic of your choice. You will work closely with a supervisor, applying the skills and knowledge acquired in the first year to conduct meaningful, original research. This research contributes to scholarly insights on spirituality, culture, and sustainability. Compulsory Researching Contemporary Cosmologies (30 credits) Ecology and Spirituality (30 credits) MA Dissertation: Ecology and Spirituality (60 credits) Optional Sacred Geography (30 credits) Cosmology, Magic and Divination (30 credits) Sacred Skies (30 credits) Environmental Philosophy (30 credits) Religious Experience Today Directed Independent Study (10 / 20 credits) Religion and the Environment (30 credits)
Assessment method
The main mode of assessment in Part I is via essays (two per module). The assessment for the Part II module is via a 15,000-word dissertation.
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
How to apply
International applicants
If you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency here, you may need to apply for a visa. For courses of more than six months’ duration you will require a Student visa. International students who require a Student visa should apply for our full-time courses as these qualify for Student visa sponsorship. For full information read our visa application and guides. Please note students receiving US Federal Aid are only able to apply for in-person, on-campus programmes which will have no elements of online study.
Entry requirements
2:2 honours degree or UWTSD recognised equivalent.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in each of the sub-tests. We also accept other English language tests.
Acceptable Evidence of English
https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/apply/international-applications/english-language-requirements
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £6800 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £6800 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £6800 | Whole course |
| Wales | £6800 | Whole course |
| Channel Islands | £6800 | Whole course |
| Republic of Ireland | £6800 | Whole course |
| EU | £10500 | Whole course |
| International | £10500 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Access to your own digital device/the appropriate IT kit will be essential during your time studying at UWTSD. Access to wifi in your accommodation will also be essential to allow you to fully engage with your programme. See our dedicated webpages for further guidance on suitable devices to purchase, and for a full guide on getting your device set up.
You may face additional costs while at university, including (but not limited to):
Travel to and from campus
Printing, photocopying, binding, stationery and equipment costs (e.g. USB sticks)
Purchase of books or texts
Gowns for graduation ceremonies
Provider information
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
College Road
Carmarthen
SA31 3EP