Theology and Religious Studies are usually understood to be two quite different approaches to the study of religions but we see them as having a great deal in common. Through these two approaches you will study religion and religions in their contemporary as well as historical forms.
By applying the particular methodologies of Theology and of Religious Studies, you will explore and gain a clear understanding of major religious traditions and of issues facing them today. The course also provides opportunity to experience different approaches to learning, and to acquire subject-related and more general skills.
We are committed to widening access and therefore offer full-time study over three years or part-time study over a longer period, depending on a student’s circumstances. We are also committed to the open study of religion without prejudice and without privileging one religious tradition more than others.
At Level 1 you will take a second subject alongside Theology and Religious Studies. From the end of year 1, you may choose to continue on a combined route, taking TRS as a Main (75%), Joint (50%) or Subsidiary (25%) subject, or switch to a single subject route either in TRS or your other subject.
Programme Content
Theology and Religious Studies are usually understood as distinct ways of studying religion. However, their content and the methods used by each are similar. Religious Studies explores religions and ideologies, practices and ideas, and how they shape and have been shaped by past and contemporary culture. It does so by using methods drawn from cultural studies, phenomenology, sociology, and anthropology. Theology is primarily the critical reflection on the traditions of one religion, e.g. Christianity. It too draws on a number of methodologies including philosophy, history, politics, and contemporary theologies, as well as some of those used by Religious Studies.
Level 1 modules form essential foundations for years 2 and 3 and cover themes and issues in the study of religions, Christian theology, world religions (e.g. Judaism, Islam) and sacred texts, their significance and interpretation. These modules thus combine knowledge about selected religions with learning about the methods used to study them.
Level 2 involves more advanced study. It includes two core modules: Philosophy of Religion and Ethics and Religion. Optional modules include New Religions, Buddhism, Indian Religions and Culture, The Gospels, Liberation Theologies, Theology and Film, and Holy Land Studies.
Level 3 involves greater depth of study and encourages more independence on your part. It includes two core modules: Mapping Mortality and Integrated Spirituality. Optional modules include Contemporary Approaches to Biblical Literature, Contemporary Christian Theology, Contemporary Hinduism, and Women and Religion. Single and Main TRS students also research a topic of interest to them under one-to-one supervision and present their researches in a 10,000 word dissertation or final year project (FYP). Joint students may take their FYP in TRS or their other subject. This is an opportunity for students to pursue their own special interests which have not been covered or only briefly covered in the previous two years.
Assessment
Assessment is as much a part of the student’s learning experience as lectures and personal study. It may consist of coursework and examination or combinations of coursework e.g. essays, class presentations, website design, and group projects.
Career Opportunities
The critical thinking and skills learned in TRS are excellent preparation for a wide range of graduate entry careers. TRS graduates have gone into journalism, teaching, counselling, social work, law, religious ministry, and commerce. Others have gone on to postgraduate study including our own MA in Religion. Theology and Religious Studies is good preparation for life in a multi-cultural, multi-faith world. Mature students returning to study will find the subject of great benefit during a period of occupational change.
Assessing Us
TRS was awarded 23 out of 24 by the QAA in May 2001. The subject team were particularly commended for the academic and personal support given to students. In the most recent Research Assessment Exercise (2002), TRS were awarded a 4, which means that the research done by TRS staff is at a level of national excellence.