Course summary

This course is ideal for anyone seeking to gain greater understanding of the impact of religion, theology, and spirituality in the contemporary world and at key points in history, and to develop critical thinking skills. You will study a wide range of key issues in the study of religion and theology, with options for engaging textual and hermeneutical as well as social scientific approaches, and opportunities for undertaking field research both in the UK and overseas. Our academic staff are specialists in their fields with recognised excellence in teaching. In the latest Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey, 91% of respondents were satisfied with the teaching they received (PTES 2021). "MA students in Theology and Religious Studies at Chester benefit from a diverse and exciting selection of specialist modules, which are taught according to staff research specialisms. Our academic staff all produce cutting-edge, world-leading scholarship, and this scholarship directly informs our teaching." — Dr Caroline Tee, Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer in Anthropology of Islam Why study this course with us? The Department of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Chester is distinctive for the breadth of expertise offered by our academic staff. On the MA in Theology and Religious Studies, you will have the opportunity to explore topics in biblical studies, the social scientific study of global religions, and Christian theology and ethics. The Department has a strong research culture which directly informs our teaching. In the most recent evaluation of our research in the Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), 88% of our submission was judged world-leading (4) or internationally excellent (3), placing us 7th in the UK by this measure (REF2021 Results Analysis – Elsevier). Professionals in both the private and public sectors engage in this course to increase their 'religious literacy' and to demonstrate to their employers the many transferable skills fostered by the study of theology and religions. Many students take this course simply because they consider studying the world's religious beliefs, texts, histories, and practices fascinating and relevant. The course also attracts those seeking ministerial development. School teachers may qualify from assistance with fees from the Culham St Gabriel's Trust. Learn more at: www.cstg.org.uk/grant-giving/masters-scholarship