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Religious beliefs, behaviours and institutions are fascinating and powerful components in human societies. Understanding their motivations and structures can help the search for solutions to major challenges in the contemporary world.
This programme allows a deepening engagement with the methodological ramifications of the field, while at the same time encouraging in-depth study of one or more religious traditions.
Our focus extends beyond theory and method in religious studies to specific local, national and international religious traditions. We study Jewish, Christian, Islamic and Indian traditions, as well as indigenous religions of Africa, North America and East Asia, and new age and diasporic traditions.
This combination of theoretical know-how, with studies in specific traditions, equips you to compare, interpret and explain religion in cross-cultural perspective.
The programme also offers the opportunity to learn Sanskrit, Arabic or Persian (subject to availability) through our leading expertise in Asian Studies and in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies.
This MSc is run over one year full time (or two years part-time).
You will participate in seminars, tutorials and lectures. You will be given training in research methods and will receive individual supervision for your 15,000-word dissertation.
Compulsory courses:
- Theory and Method in the Study of Religion
- Selected Themes in the Study of Religion
- Approaches to Research in Divinity and Religious Studies
Option courses:
- Contemporary Theories of Religion
- Gender and Ethics in Islam
- New Age Spirituality in Contemporary Culture
- New Dimensions in Jewish Thought
- New Indigenous Religious Movements
- Religion and Nationalism
- Religion and the New African Diaspora
You can choose a further postgraduate course offered elsewhere in the School of Divinity, or a course or language from another School, at the discretion of the Programme Director and subject to availability.
Career opportunities
The programme is designed to give you a good basis for postgraduate research in religious studies, or for employment in a wide range of areas requiring critical analysis and empathetic understanding.
Want to improve your English level for admission?
Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.
- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.