Course summary

Are you looking for a flexible, research-driven MA which invites you to critically engage with key debates, texts, and traditions in the study of theology, philosophy, and religion? Do you want to be part of a vibrant and inclusive scholarly community, led by leading academics with internationally recognised research expertise? Our Master's in Theology and Religious Studies course allows you to explore your own areas of interest, which could be anything from biblical studies to the social scientific study of global religions, under specialist one-to-one supervision. Our strong research culture drives our teaching and ensures that you work directly with experts at the forefront of their fields. With the opportunity to undertake taught study in optional topics such as God and Philosophy in the 20th Century, Contemporary Islam, The Book of Revelation, or Qumran and the Dead Sea Scrolls, you can tailor your studies to match your academic and professional interests. Alongside these taught options, you can choose to undertake independent study under specialist supervision, drawing on the areas within Theology and Religious Studies that most interests you. Examples of possible areas of study (indicative rather than exhaustive) include the following: religion and existentialism; queer theologies; Christology; the Hebrew Bible and the Dead Sea Scrolls; religious ethics and asceticism; political theologies; violence in early Christianity; the anthropology of Islam; religion, feminism, and gender; and contemporary apocalypticisms. The dissertation module gives you the opportunity to develop your own research interests further and will equip you with the necessary skills to do so. Examples of recent, successfully completed projects include: 'A Textual and Hermeneutical Analysis of the Biblical Exodus Narrative'; 'A Fieldwork-driven Exploration of Prayer in Jehovah's Witness Communities'; and 'A Study of Contemporary Catholic Social Teachings on Gender'. You will first discuss and develop your initial ideas with the course leader, before starting work with a specialist academic who will guide your research and writing on the dissertation from start to end. Whether you are looking to advance your career, enrich your ministerial development, or simply explore the fascinating complexities of religion in today's world and in history, this MA equips you with valuable critical skills and specialist subject knowledge to do so.