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Study of Religions (Part-time) (MA)

Distance Learning
4 Years Part-time

The Study of Religions (MA) has a distinct methodological emphasis drawing on the expertise of staff. The aim of the programme is not to focus on any one tradition, but to enable engagement with different traditions in a manner that is free, fair, accurate and open to correction.

This programme has a distinctive focus on contemporary religions. Its range of modules, exploring different aspects of religion today, has been designed by staff members with a background in sociology, anthropology, and religious studies.

The modules enable students to explore not just the theoretical, but also the practical lived aspects of religious faith and practice in different contexts.

The Study of Religions (MA) at UWTSD is a unique programme that enables students to develop research skills in case they want to continue on a PhD but also prepares them for a career in Religious Education.

Course details

Start date:
Study modes:
  • Part-time
  • Distance Learning
Language:
  • English
Course length:
4 Years Part-time

Why choose this course?

01
Distinct methodological emphasis drawing on the expertise of staff.
02
All our staff are research active, and on hand throughout to guide you in the right direction.
03
Opportunity to study a wide range of different religious traditions.

What you will learn

Students will usually start the Study of Religions (MA) with the compulsory module on Theory and Methodology in the Study of Religions. It will provide them with knowledge and understanding of key areas in the study of religions. Students then can select their other three modules from a list of optional modules. These modules will enable students to specialise on distinct aspects of religion and on distinct methodologies. This flexibility allows students to develop their own research interest within the Study of Religions from the start.

Students have the choice to study in-depth an aspect of Buddhism (Buddhist Philosophy), China (Chinese Religions at the Grassroots) and / or Celtic Spirituality (Celtic Spirituality, Sanctity and Hagiography).

Additional modules are available in the area of Islamic Studies (Islam Today) and aspects of alternative spirituality (e.g. in the modules Sacred Geography and Western Esotericism). Some modules allow students to look at religion in a comparative approach such as Religion and the Environment and Interreligious Encounter.

Students can also explore the phenomenon of religious and spiritual experience (Religious Experience Today) – a subject area which the Institute considers is important given the location of the Alister Hardy Religious Experience Research Centre on the Lampeter campus.

In choosing their options, students should consider which modules are most relevant to the topic of their dissertation and will receive advice on this from the subject specialist.

Part II consists of a 60-credit dissertation of 15,000 words. Students will be able to apply the skills and knowledge gained in Part I when undertaking this sustained piece of personal research.

Compulsory

MA Dissertation (Religion)
Theory and Methodology in the Study of Religions

Optional

Sacred Geography

(30 credits)

Chinese Religions at the Grassroots
The Islamic Intellectual Tradition: Medieval, Modern and Contemporary Developments

(30 credits)

Religious Experience Today
Islam Today
Interfaith Encounters: Religious Interaction in a Complex World

Disclaimer

  • We listen to student feedback and insights from industry and from professionals to ensure that course content is high-quality and up-to-date, and that it offers the best possible preparation for your future career or study goals. 

    For this reason, there might be modifications to the content of your course over time, to keep up to date with changes in the subject area or in the sector. If a module is no longer running, we’ll make sure to keep you informed, and work with you to choose a different suitable module.

Ratings and Rankings

Staff

Our People

You will be taught and supported by a wide range of professional staff and teams here to help you get the university experience you are looking for. Our teaching staff were ranked 2nd in Wales for assessments and feedback (NSS 2023) meaning the comments you get back from your work will help you learn. Our commitment to your learning has seen our students us as Top 10 in the UK for Lecturers and Teaching Quality. Find out more about our academic staff who teach across our courses. 

Further information

  • Normally the entry requirement for this degree is a first class or upper second class undergraduate degree. In addition, enquiries are also welcome from students with an equivalent and appropriate professional qualification or significant and relevant professional experience. If you are unsure whether you would be accepted onto the MA you should contact the Programme Co-ordinator for an informal chat. Each application is assessed on its own merits.

  • Assessments include long essays (usually 4,000 words), shorter critical reviews, research proposals, and other shorter tasks. There are no examinations. The dissertation is a single piece of work comprising 15,000 words.

  • Estimates are on the assumption that students buy new copies of the books. Students may also choose to spend money on printing drafts of work.

    Students may spend up to £300 per year on books and additional related materials.

  • You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available, please visit our Bursaries and Scholarships section.

  • This course develops core transferable skills in religious literacy, intercultural sensitivity, and self-reflection valued by employers. Students typically go on to work in a number of professions, including teaching, banking and financial business, marketing and advertising, publishing, civil service, health and social care, counselling, and customer service.

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