Theology and Religious Studies MA

Program Overview

The MA in Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Chester explores the influence of religion, theology, and spirituality in contemporary and historical contexts. Students delve into biblical studies, Christian theology, ethics, and global religions, developing critical thinking skills and religious literacy. The program emphasizes research and offers opportunities for field research in the UK and overseas, preparing graduates for careers in various sectors, including education, business, and social care.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This course is designed for individuals seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the influence of religion, theology, and spirituality in both the contemporary world and key historical periods. The program aims to cultivate critical thinking skills within students. Students will delve into a wide array of key topics within the study of religion and theology, with the option to explore both textual and hermeneutical approaches, as well as social scientific methods. The program provides opportunities for field research within the UK and overseas. The MA in Theology and Religious Studies offers a chance to explore topics in biblical studies, the social scientific study of global religions, Christian theology, and ethics. The program emphasizes a strong research culture which directly informs its teaching methods. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), 88% of the department's submission was judged world-leading (4 ) or internationally excellent (3 ), placing it 7th in the UK by this measure. Professionals in both the private and public sectors utilize this program to enhance their "religious literacy" and to demonstrate their acquired transferable skills to their employers. Many students enroll because they find the study of religious beliefs, texts, histories, and practices fascinating and relevant. The course also attracts individuals seeking ministerial development.

Outline:

Year 1

All students complete an introductory core module providing an overview of Theology, Biblical Studies, and Religious Studies. Students then select four specialist modules from a range of options, including:

• Independent Biblical Study (Optional): Students independently study a topic that builds upon their previous or current biblical studies, focusing on an area of personal interest.
• Research Dissertation (60) (Compulsory): Students select a topic related to their program aims and interests and conduct guided, independent research.
• Qumran and the Dead Sea Scrolls (Optional): The module examines the Dead Sea Scrolls (specifically, the Qumran Dead Sea Scrolls) and their significance in understanding the social, cultural, political, and religious diversity of the Second Temple period.
Topics covered include: discovery, publication, historical and archaeological context, content of the manuscripts, relation to biblical texts and known apocryphal/pseudepigraphal literature, the community behind the texts, relationship with early Christianity, and the modern impact and reception of the discovery within both academia and popular culture.
• TRS Conference Study (Optional): Students attend an academic conference or seminar and write a research assignment based on an aspect of the conference theme.
• Contemporary Islam (Optional): This module traces the development of various trends in modern and contemporary Islam, including movements and individuals from pre-modernist reform movements to contemporary forms of globalized Islam.
• Key Texts in Christian Theological Ethics (Optional): The module consists of the study of a number of extracts of texts in Christian theological ethics, drawn from a variety of perspectives in Christian theology both contemporary and historical.
• The Book of Revelation (Optional): Students engage in a systematic and critical reading of the Book of Revelation, covering key critical issues in its interpretation, such as its social, historical, and political setting; its key themes and theological content; its place in the development of early Christianity; and its influence and reception.
• Studying Theology and Religion (Compulsory): This module equips students with academic study skills required for Level 7 Theology and Religious Studies, provides an introduction to the three sub-disciplines in the field: Theology; Biblical Studies; and Religious Studies.
Students learn how established research and inquiry techniques are used to create and interpret knowledge in Theology and Religious Studies.

Assessment:

Assessment is through a combination of coursework and a dissertation.

Teaching:

Teaching is delivered through research skills seminars and individual supervision. The program is primarily designed for in-person study. Some online learning activities may be included.

Careers:

This course develops skills in empathy, cultural sensitivity, and religious literacy valued by employers. Students may go on to work in a number of professions, including:

• Teaching
• Banking and financial business
• Marketing and advertising
• Publishing
• Civil service
• Health and social care
• Counseling
• Customer service

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Home Students:

• £8,505 per year (2024/25)

International/EU Students:

• £14,750 per year (2024/25)

Additional Costs:

• Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees.
This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees.
• If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills.