Religious Studies

Entry requirements

Normally a 2:2 honours degree in a Humanities subject is required. Applicants with a degree in another discipline should contact us for advice. Those with appropriate relevant experience but who do not have a degree will also receive consideration.

Please note, applicants for Theology and Religious Studies MA may be invited to attend an interview.

Months of entry

October

Course content

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.

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.

We have 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.

Information for international students

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

Please note, applicants for  Theology and Religious Studies MA may be invited to attend an interview.

Fees and funding