Divinity

Program Overview

The PhD in Divinity at the University of Aberdeen is a prestigious program that offers students the opportunity to delve deeply into the study of Christian faith, life, and doctrine. With a focus on historical, institutional, and contemporary contexts, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of this complex and fascinating field. The program is designed for students who are passionate about exploring the depths of Christian faith and its impact on the world.

Program Outline

With a focus on historical, institutional, and contemporary contexts, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of this complex and fascinating field.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Equip students with advanced research skills and knowledge in the field of Divinity.
• Encourage critical thinking and analysis of theological issues.
• Foster independent research and the ability to contribute to the field of Divinity.
• Prepare students for a variety of careers in academia, ministry, and other fields.

Program Description:

This program is designed for students who are passionate about exploring the depths of Christian faith and its impact on the world. The program offers a rigorous and stimulating academic environment, with a strong emphasis on research and independent study. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with world-leading academics and benefit from their expertise and guidance.

Outline:

Program Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Systematic Theology
• Theological Ethics
• Church History and Historical Theology
• Practical Theology
• Old Testament and Hebrew Bible
• New Testament

Structure:

The program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis, with both September and January start dates available. Full-time students can choose between a 36-month or 48-month option. The 48-month option allows students to take 12 months of classes before commencing on the 36 months of research leading to their dissertation.

Course Schedule:

The program consists of a combination of taught courses, seminars, and independent research. Taught courses are typically offered in the first year of the program, while seminars and independent research are the focus in subsequent years.

Individual Modules:

The program is divided into a number of modules, each of which focuses on a specific area of Divinity. Some of the modules offered include:

• Systematic Theology: This module explores the sources and norms of Christian doctrine and scripture, including creation, providence, soteriology, and ecclesiology.
• Theological Ethics: This module examines Scripture and ethics, political ethics, medical, social, and economic ethics, and ethical questions concerning disability, animal, and environmental ethics.
• Church History and Historical Theology: This module focuses on patristic history and theology, Augustine and Augustinianisms, Medieval church and theology, female spirituality, the Reformation, Scottish church history, the history of missions, and the interactions between literacy, perceptions of monastic space, and religious practices.
• Practical Theology: This module explores disability studies, healthcare, liturgics, homiletics, Christian responses to historical traumas, and the critical theory of religion.
• Old Testament and Hebrew Bible: This module investigates Deuteronomistic history, exilic and post-exilic prophecy, and texts such as Leviticus, the minor prophets, the psalter, monotheism, the Wisdom of Solomon, and the Septuagint.
• New Testament: This module examines New Testament theology, Second Temple Judaism, Apocalyptic, Philo, the Johannine corpus, Pauline literature, Christianity in the classical world, and early Christian writing practices.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Essays: Students will be required to write essays on a variety of topics related to their chosen area of study.
• Presentations: Students will have the opportunity to present their research findings to their peers and faculty.
• Dissertation: All students are required to complete a dissertation, which is a major piece of independent research.
• Originality: Students are expected to demonstrate original thinking and analysis in their work.
• Depth of Knowledge: Students are expected to have a deep understanding of the subject matter.
• Critical Thinking: Students are expected to be able to think critically about the issues they are studying.
• Writing and Presentation Skills: Students are expected to be able to communicate their ideas clearly and effectively in writing and orally.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Lectures are used to introduce students to new concepts and ideas.
• Seminars: Seminars provide students with the opportunity to discuss their work with their peers and faculty.
• Supervisions: Students are assigned a supervisor who will provide them with guidance and support throughout their studies.