Theology

MA

The MA in Theology offers a solid grounding in the classical tradition of Christian thought, as well as helping students to ask cutting-edge questions of contemporary theological significance.

Campus Chester
Course MA
Length 1 year full time or 3 years part time
Start dates February 2012
September 2012

Why study this course:          

This course is ideal for those seeking a deeper understanding of Christian doctrine, informed by an in-depth engagement with figures and texts throughout the history of the Christian tradition. It will appeal to those looking to extend their undergraduate studies in theology and related fields, those seeking professional development, those interested in furthering their knowledge of the Christian faith and its effects on society and culture, and those considering pursuing a research degree in theology.

Features:                                

Studying theology as a postgraduate at Chester provides both a solid grounding in the texts and thinkers that have shaped the Christian tradition and the opportunity to work with theologians and biblical scholars working at the cutting edge of the new questions that confront theology in the 21st century.

Alongside a core module on ‘Key Theological Texts’, you can take options in areas of biblical theology, doctrine, historical theology, systematic and philosophical theologies, contextual theologies and theological ethics.  You also have opportunities to engage in the study of a range of approaches to biblical study and church history.

Next: Modules

Programme Structure:

Core module: Key Theological Texts (40 credits)

Three optional modules, chosen from the list below (20 credits each)

Dissertation (80 credits)

Core module: Key Theological Texts

This module gives you the chance to engage with in-depth study of key texts and thinkers that have shaped the Christian tradition in the company of other students and staff.

Optional modules:

Contextualized Approaches to Biblical Interpretation

Contemporary Issues in Contextual Theology

Contemporary Issues in Public Theology

Feminist Theology and Literature

Qur’anic Hermeneutics

Secularization and the Futures of Religion

Jews, Christians and Pagans 168BCE - 132CE

Religions and Disability

Urban Theology

Bodies, Gender and God

Environment: Theology and Ethics

Independent Study

Next: Assessment

Assessment for each module is through a written essay. The subject of the essay will normally be negotiated with the module tutor. For a single module, essays are normally 4,000 words. For a double module, essays are normally 8,000 words and the dissertation is normally 16,000-20,000 words.

Next: Careers

This programme is geared towards graduates seeking opportunities for advanced study in theology, biblical studies and theological ethics. It provides opportunities for:

  • Preparation for those seeking to study at doctoral level (e.g. PhD or DProf, though see also the MRes degree)
  • Continuing professional development in a variety of contexts.
  • Graduates wishing to pursue Masters study as an end in itself.
Next: Entry requirements

The academic ability, motivation and potential of a student required for entry to the programme can be established from a number of forms of evidence:

  • an upper second or first class Honours degree in Theology and/or Religious Studies
  • an upper second or first class honours degree in another subject, together with evidence of certificated learning in theology  and/or religious studies or substantial related experience;
  • evidence of a lower qualification plus substantial appropriate professional experience (such as teaching), evidenced in a summary of non-certificated and experiential learning.

Students can demonstrate achievement and potential and use one level 6 module (20 credits) for ‘conversion’, admitting them with credit onto the postgraduate programme.

Where applicants present qualifications or experience that are not included in the University’s stated entry criteria, an Admissions Equivalence Form is completed and signed by two members of the programme team, outlining the basis upon which an offer can been made

How to apply

Beginning: Overview

Who to contact

  • For admission enquiries

    Postgraduate Admissions

    University of Chester

    Parkgate Road

    Chester

    CH1 4BJ

    T:
    01244 512456
    postgrad@chester.ac.uk

  • For enquiries about course content

    Professor David Clough, Professor of Theological Ethics and Acting Head of Department
    T:
    01244 511044
    d.clough@chester.ac.uk

  • Cath Rogers, Postgraduate Administrator
    T:
    01244 511518
    cathryn.rogers@chester.ac.uk