The MA (Hons) in Theological Studies provides an introduction to the rich theological traditions of Christianity, covering the history, belief, practice, and implications of Christian theology from the early church to the present day. You will explore ways in which Christianity is being expressed and lived out today in different areas of the world, and you will learn about the distinctive challenges to faith presented by modern secular culture and, as importantly, how Christian theology engages with these challenges.

Given its status as the founding subject of the University, theology is inherently interdisciplinary and its methods of inquiry and practices of interpretation have profoundly shaped subjects across other disciplines. You will therefore engage with theology in conversation with a diverse range of complementary subjects, including (but not limited to) philosophy, psychology, the sciences, anthropology, the arts, classics, and history.

Course details

The MA (Hons) in Theological Studies is a four-year course run by the School of Divinity. The course combines three distinct but closely related fields of study: theology, church history and practical theology. It also provides opportunities for optional modules within and outside of the School. Many of our elective modules take an interdisciplinary approach to theological studies.

Modules in theology consider key topics (God, salvation, Jesus Christ, Trinity, creation, anthropology) in relation to the contexts in which they emerged and developed throughout Christian history, and some of the key thinkers who developed those concepts. They also consider some of the distinctive challenges to faith in the modern world.

Careers

A degree in divinity gives you the opportunity for significant intellectual and personal development, and you will acquire a wide range of transferable skills. Those who have studied theology or biblical studies have learnt a range of skills including:

• textual
• historical
• analytical
• creative
• interpersonal.

Graduates are in demand with employers who need rigorous but flexible thinkers with a broad knowledge base and an understanding of people and their religious, historical, cultural, and social contexts.