MPhil/PhD Religious Studies

Program Overview

The MPhil/PhD Religious Studies program at Goldsmiths, University of London, provides students with a comprehensive understanding of religion in the modern world. Through interdisciplinary study, advanced research skills, and expert supervision, the program equips graduates to become leading researchers and scholars in the field. The program emphasizes connections between religion and public policy, faith and public professions, and offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as religious education and religion and globalization.

Program Outline

MPhil/PhD Religious Studies at Goldsmiths, University of London

Degree Overview:

• Program Focus:
The MPhil/PhD Religious Studies program at Goldsmiths is designed for students with a strong interest in any aspect of religion, belief, and spirituality in the contemporary world, particularly as studied interdisciplinarily.
• Objectives:
• Provide students with a thorough understanding of the complexities of religion in the modern world.
• Equip students with advanced research skills in the field of Religious Studies.
• Help students develop their own research interests and projects under the guidance of expert supervisors.
• Program Distinctions:
• Focus on interdisciplinarity, connecting theology, religious studies, and the sociological study of religion.
• Connection between religion/belief and public policy.
• Engagement between faith and public professions (social work, teaching, youth work, health, community work).
• Structure:
• One-to-one supervisory sessions.
• Methods training courses in both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Thesis and viva voce assessment.
• Overall Aim:
To equip students with the knowledge, skills, and tools to become leading researchers and scholars in the field of Religious Studies.

Outline:

• Program Content:
Covers a wide range of topics, including but not limited to:
• Theology and religious studies
• Sociology of religion
• Contemporary religious trends
• Religion and public policy
• Religion and social justice
• Religion and education
• Religion and health

Assessment:

• Methods:
• Thesis: Students are required to produce a substantial piece of original research in their chosen area of specialization.
• Viva voce: An oral examination conducted by a panel of experts, focusing on the thesis and related research.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
One-to-one supervision, individual and group tutorials, lectures, seminars, and workshops.
• Faculty:
The program benefits from a diverse and internationally renowned faculty with expertise in various areas of religious studies.
• Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes interdisciplinary study and engagement with real-world issues through collaborations with external organizations and researchers.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Academic research and teaching
• Policy analysis and research
• Non-profit work
• Interfaith dialogue and community engagement
• Journalism and media work
• Work in public relations and communications
• Work in education and healthcare settings
• Graduate Opportunities:
Graduates are well-positioned to pursue further research careers through postdoctoral positions or fellowships.

Other:

• Program Highlights:
• Strong emphasis on research and individual supervision.
• Excellent facilities and research resources.
• Access to an extensive network of academics and research institutions.
• The program also welcomes applications from students with non-traditional backgrounds and relevant experience.
• Students who do not meet the English language requirements can undertake pre-sessional English language courses at Goldsmiths.

Summary:

The MPhil/PhD Religious Studies program at Goldsmiths offers a comprehensive and engaging learning experience for students who are passionate about exploring the complexities of religion in the contemporary world. The program combines rigorous academic study with real-world applications, preparing graduates for successful careers in a variety of fields.

Annual tuition fees These are the fees for students starting their programme in the 2024/2025 academic year. Home - full-time: £TBC Home - part-time: £TBC International - full-time: £TBC Additional costs There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme.