Theology, Imagination and the Arts

The BA (Hons) in Theology, Imagination and the Arts at the University of St Andrews offers a unique interdisciplinary exploration of the ways in which religious beliefs, theological concepts, and spiritual ideas have historically influenced and continue to shape the creative expressions across various artistic disciplines. This programme invites students to examine a broad spectrum of artistic forms—including literature, visual arts, music, drama, and film—through the lens of theological thought and religious experience. By integrating critical analysis with creative engagement, students develop a nuanced understanding of how faith and spirituality intersect with human imagination and artistic innovation.

Throughout the course, students will engage with key themes such as divine symbolism, spiritual narratives, religious iconography, and the role of imagination in religious practice and artistic creation. They will explore a diverse range of theological traditions, from Christianity and Judaism to other world religions, analyzing their influence on cultural expressions across different historical periods and geographical contexts. The programme emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to think critically about the ways in which religion and arts inform and challenge each other.

The curriculum combines core modules in theology, philosophical inquiry, and cultural studies with specialized courses on the arts and imagination. Students have opportunities to consider topics such as religious storytelling, sacred space and architecture, the aesthetics of worship, and contemporary religious art and media. This inclusive approach aims to foster a deep appreciation of the richness and diversity of religious artistic expression, as well as to develop students’ analytical, creative, and communication skills.

Students on this programme are encouraged to pursue independent research projects, participate in practical arts workshops, and engage with visiting scholars and artists. The course prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, including arts and cultural management, education, religious leadership, and further academic study. Emphasizing both theoretical understanding and creative practice, the programme nurtures thoughtful, innovative thinkers who can critically engage with the role of religion and spirituality within the arts and broader society.

The programme consists of three taught modules taken over two semesters followed by a 15,000-word dissertation written over three months during summer. Modules are interdisciplinary in nature, integrating various artistic media and theological themes and are taught through weekly lectures and seminars with class sizes typically ranging from 6 to 12 students. Assessment comprises a combination of coursework and written examination. 

Students attend ITIA’s weekly research seminar, and may, if they wish, enrol in language classes and attend other lectures, seminars and reading groups as appropriate. The School offers classes in Hebrew, Greek and Latin, which are open to all students. 

Modules

Each module typically comprises:

• four hours of weekly lectures and seminars
• coursework assessment
• a three-hour written exam

Compulsory modules

• Christian Doctrine and the Arts: examines key Christian doctrines and their artistic presentation throughout the centuries.
• Theological Engagements with the Arts: Rationales, Methods and Texts: addresses theological questions about human artistry and introduces students to different ways of engaging the relationship between Christian theology and the arts.
• Religious Experience and Aesthetic Theory: explores how historical and cultural contexts through the ages have shaped religious art, and examines critically how different art forms - painting, music, literature, drama, architecture, film - and different styles within those forms mediate different kinds of religious experience.

Dissertation

Student dissertations will be supervised by members of the teaching staff who will advise students in their choice of subject and provide guidance throughout the research process. The completed dissertation of 15,000 words must be submitted by a date specified in August.

If students choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MLitt, an exit award is available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma. By choosing an exit award, you will finish your degree at the end of the second semester of study and receive a PGDip instead of an MLitt.

Requirements

• Postgraduate candidates will be expected to hold a Russian Bachelor’s degree - Diplom Bakalavra/ Bakalavr Diploma or a Specialist Degree issued by the Russian Federation -  Specialist Diploma / Diplom Specialista.  In either case, students should have completed their degree with an average mark (grade) of 4 or higher on the Russian 5-point marking scale.  Students with higher level qualifications such as Magistr, the Kandidat Nauk, would also be considered for postgraduate study.
• CV
• Sample of academic work (2,000 words)
• Letter of intent (300 to 500 words)
• Two original signed academic references
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates 
• IELTS 7.0

Scholarships

• Russia Global Education Program (GEP)
• Accommodation Award
• Chevening Scholarships 
• Thomas and Margaret Roddan Trust Bursary 

The programme in Theology, Imagination and the Arts at the University of St Andrews offers students a unique interdisciplinary approach to understanding the relationship between religious thought, creative expression, and cultural representation. This innovative course explores how theological ideas have influenced and been influenced by various artistic mediums, including literature, visual arts, film, and performance. Students are encouraged to critically examine texts and artworks through theological, philosophical, and cultural lenses, fostering a deep appreciation for the interplay between faith and creativity. The programme aims to develop students' analytical skills, contextual understanding, and interpretative abilities, enabling them to engage thoughtfully with both scholarly discourse and contemporary cultural expressions. It combines core modules that cover fundamental theological concepts and historical developments with specialized options in arts and imagination, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. The teaching staff comprises experts in theology, religious studies, and the arts, providing a rich, multidisciplinary learning environment. Assessment methods include essays, presentations, and project work, emphasizing critical thinking and original analysis. The programme also offers opportunities for practical engagement with the arts through visiting exhibitions, performances, and collaborative projects. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in education, arts administration, cultural analysis, religious leadership, and further academic research. The University of St Andrews, renowned for its historic reputation and vibrant academic community, provides an inspiring setting for exploring the profound connections between faith, imagination, and artistic expression. Students benefit from access to extensive library resources, galleries, and cultural events within the university and the wider community. The programme encourages a global perspective, examining how different cultural contexts shape religious and artistic practices across history and geography. Overall, the Theology, Imagination and the Arts programme combines rigorous academic study with creative exploration, aiming to produce well-rounded scholars and practitioners capable of contributing meaningfully to discussions at the intersection of religion, culture, and the arts.