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Christian Theology (Full-time) (MRes)

Distance Learning
2 Years Full-time

Theology is one of the broadest and most comprehensive fields of study. Though it is sometimes assumed to be a discipline reserved for clergy; in reality, theology addresses questions that are ultimately of interest to everyone. Why do we exist? What is the good life, and how can we live it? Is there a God? And if there is a God, what is God like?


Theology asks the biggest human questions in order to better understand our every-day lives. Theology is unique as a discipline, because it is a conversation about everything. And students in theology at UWTSD will have the opportunity to study everything – from history and philosophy, to hermeneutical theory and sociology, to culture and ethics.
 

Course details

Start date:
Study modes:
  • Full-time
  • Distance Learning
Language:
  • English
Course length:
2 Years Full-time

Why choose this course?

01
UWTSD is home to the oldest faculty of Theology and Religious Studies in Wales, established in 1822.
02
The University boasts a vibrant and active postgraduate research culture, particularly in Theology and Religion.
03
The University is also active in Interfaith Studies.

What you will learn

The MRes in Christian Theology allows students to conduct guided research on the teachings and practices of the Christian tradition, from both historical and constructive perspectives. But the programme as a whole is broad-minded and open to people of all religious persuasions.


Students will take 60 credits of taught modules as well as undertaking a thorough piece of independent research in agreement with their supervisor. Their final dissertation will be 30,000 words.


The MRes is delivered as a full-time and part-time programme of study for distance learners.  All module content is available through the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), and students will be supported throughout their studies with regular access to their module tutors, either one-to-one (by email, Skype, phone), in groups (using media such as Skype), or via VLE module discussion forums or wikis.


In Part I, students study one compulsory 30 credit module and one optional 30 credit module (60 credits in total).


In Part II, students undertake a 30,000-word dissertation under the guidance of a seasoned academic with a proven record of research in the field of Christian theology. Whether your goal is to develop the beginnings for further doctoral research, or just to indulge curiosity, the dissertation provides you the chance to develop and explore your own research interests.
 

Compulsory

MRes Dissertation (Religion)
The Study of Theology

Optional

The Gospel of John
The Bible: Text and Transmission
The Doctrine of the Trinity
Political Theology
The Cloister and the World: Studies in Medieval Cistercian history

(30 credits)

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 place 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

  • Applicants are expected to have a good first degree (a first or upper second), although every application is considered in its own merit, so places may be offered on the basis of professional qualification and relevant experiences.
     

    Candidates with a lower degree classification or no degree may be admitted at Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma level, with an opportunity to upgrade to Master’s level if satisfactory progress is made.

  • The modules are assessed by a variety of assessment methods: short essays (2,500 words), longer essays (4,000-5,000 words), comparative analyses, literary reviews, short assignments, oral assessments and one 30,000-word dissertation.

  • 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.

  • The programme has been designed to attract students interested in developing both their generic and their subject-specific skills. It offers opportunities for students who have recently graduated to move on to work at level 7 in their specialist field of study and help prepare them for careers in education, ministry and research.

    •    Refine your research skills
    •    Sharpen your ability to reason critically and analytically
    •    Expand your knowledge of history and religion
    •    Explore the development and inner logic of the Christian faith
    •    Specialise in a dimension of theological studies
    •    Develop a plan for further doctoral research
    •    Acquire a qualification to teach

    Career Opportunities:
    •    Any with interest in Christian studies or Theology
    •    Educators instructing in history or religious education
    •    Training ministers and leaders within the Christian Church
    •    Aspiring professional academics and researchers

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