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Introduction
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 ultimate 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. It 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.
Why choose this course?
1. UWTSD is home to the oldest faculty of Theology and Religious Studies in Wales, established in 1822.
2. The University boasts a vibrant and active postgraduate research culture, particularly in the study of Theology and Religion.
3. The University is also active in Interfaith Studies. (NOTE: Make sure this is linked.)
4. The MRes in Christian Theology is delivered as a full-time and part-time programme of study for distance learners.
5. Participate in local research seminars and engage with other research students at our annual residential summer school for postgraduates in July.
Overview
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.
Modules
Part I
• Christology and Atonement (30 credits; optional)
• Political Theology (30 credits; optional)
• The Bible: Contemporary Approaches (30 credits; optional)
• The Doctrine of the Trinity (30 credits; optional)
• The Gospel of John (30 credits; optional)
• The Study of Theology (30 credits; compulsory).
Part II
• MRes Dissertation (Religion) (120 credits; compulsory).
Entry Criteria
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.
ENTRY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Home Office Share Code
For EU students only.
IF no Qualification
Please provide CV with at least 2 years of work experience, and employee reference letter.
Assessment
ASSESSMENT METHODS
1. INTERNAL ENGLISH TEST if you don't have an English accredited certificate
2. Academic Interview
Assessment
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.
Career Opportunities
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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