Welcome Theology and Religious Studies Postgraduate Courses

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1 Welcome Theology and Religious Studies Postgraduate Courses With the increasing prominence of religion in public life and as faiths of all kinds navigate their way through a period of great social change, the postgraduate study of religion is an important exercise in analysis, contemplation and enlightenment. I m delighted that the four masters programmes on offer at the University of Roehampton consider what it means to follow the teachings of ancient traditions and texts in our rapidly changing world. You can find out more about these MAs in this fold-out poster or on our website. If you wish to explore matters of religion, theology and society, then I encourage you to consider choosing the University of Roehampton. Our history, with the Christian origins of three of the four University of Roehampton colleges, is reflected in the large network of expertise and support that students receive on our beautiful campus near Barnes, just 20 minutes from London. Please do not hesitate to contact our team to arrange a visit or enquire further about our postgraduate programmes. Best wishes, Professor Tina Beattie Digby Stuart Research Centre for Religion, Society and Human Flourishing Department of Theology and Religious Studies, University of Roehampton

2 Why undertake postgraduate study at Roehampton? Whether it is for professional or personal development our diverse range of postgraduate programmes offer a dynamic learning and research experience. They include: n MA in Theology and Religious Studies n MA in Contemporary Catholicism n MA in Religion and Gender n MA in Christian Ministry >> Fold out this brochure to find out more about these course programmes These programmes are especially beneficial for those hoping to work in faith based organisations or similar areas, or for anyone interested in religion and theology. The flexible delivery of these courses means you can study at a pace convenient to you. These degrees are an essential step for those interested in pursuing a PhD or conducting specific research. Learning and teaching Our team of academics are highly esteemed in the fields of humanities, theology and religion. Many have practical experience in ministry and pastoral work with religious communities, while others have focused mainly on the textual study of religious tradition. Postgraduates benefit from close contact with various course teachers including: n Professor Tina Beattie n Dr Julian Gotobed n Thomas Lynch n Dr Andrew Rogers n Revd Augusto Zampini n Dr Simonetta Calderini n Revd Dr Robert Kaggwa n Dr Neil McDonald n Dr Lynn Thomas Visit Teaching methods include small-group seminars, one-to-one tuition and supervision, and a range of online activities. Students will engage in seminar presentations, source analyses, essays and a dissertation. Students are also encouraged to attend regular research seminars where they have the opportunity to meet and converse with leading scholars, community organisers and representatives of different religious traditions.

3 First among London universities for the environment on and around campus (Times Higher Education 2010 Student Experience Survey) Research student benefits n Research students belong to the Graduate School in addition to their Academic Department n All researchers, including research students, are members of Research Centres n Research Student Development Programme n Research events, seminars and funding opportunities

4 MA in Theology and Religious Studies This MA creatively balances the close study of particular traditions and a broad understanding of the subject area. Students on this course will study research skills needed in the field of religious studies and produce an independent dissertation, making this master s programme a perfect entry point to a PhD of your choice. Elective modules will be taught by specialists in Hinduism, Islam and Christian theology, guiding you through contemporary discussion topics, historic narratives and diverse global theologies. Contemplate questions such as: n What s the role of religion today? n Do we live in a secular society? n What does religion mean to different groups of people? n How do we read the bible and other texts in a contemporary context? MA in Contemporary Catholicism Based in Digby Stuart College, an institution with a rich Catholic heritage, the MA in Contemporary Catholicism gives you the opportunity to focus on Roman Catholicism since the Second Vatican Council. You will explore doctrinal, theological and ethical issues, including the diversity of Catholicism today, internal and external debates, the significance of Catholic social teaching, and Catholic influences and expressions in material culture (art, literature, music).students on this MA will also be encouraged to apply this learning to their own study projects and participate in the Digby Stuart Research Centre s activities. Analyse and explore: n How has the Catholic Church historically dealt with key social issues? n What does it mean to be a Catholic today? n What role does the Church play in human rights campaigns, gender narratives, our relationship with nature and other religions?

5 MA in Religion and Gender The MA in Religion and Gender offers a unique degree focused on questions of religion and gender and their implications for wider political, cultural and ethical issues. This course serves the interests of those who seek to widen their general understanding of the relationship between religion and gender, as well those who want to undertake more focused research on a particular tradition or topic. In addition to module work, students are encouraged to join the flourishing postgraduate culture by attending research seminars, public lectures and study days. Study approaches to and theories on: n Religious constructs of masculinity, femininity and gendered roles and identities n Religions and women s rights n Religious influences on wider political, cultural and ethical issues concerning sexuality and gender MA in Christian Ministry This established masters programme produces highly-skilled and educated professionals capable of adapting to the needs of the Christian church in the 21st century. The programme encourages students to integrate the intellectual skills of biblical and theological studies into an overall ministerial perspective to enable informed reflection on what makes for practical expertise (eg pastoral and missiological) and a vocation in the realm of the church. This course is ideal for those who: n Seek a practical, integrated framework for theology and biblical studies in the context of Christian ministry n Are already working in the Christian church who would like more expertise in their field n Have professional and vocational needs in practicing mission or ministry or those who wish to pursue this vocation in the future

6 Involvement in events and conferences The research active department of Theology and Religious Studies holds a number of public seminars, readings and events each year. There are opportunities for postgraduate students to be involved and the programme of events contributes to the vibrant and inclusive academic community that postgraduates experience at Roehampton. Here s a sample of the department s events: n Conference on Women, Leadership and Authority in Christianity and Islam (including workshops with area community organisations and advocates) n Conference on Borders and Boundaries in the Study of Religion n Debate between Andrew Copson (Chief Executive of the British Humanist Association) and Tina Beattie on the Future of Faith Schools n Conference on Amartya Sen and Catholic Social Teaching n Study day on the figure of Mary in Islam and Christianity n Symposium on the Role of Lay Catholic Theologians Scholarships The University of Roehampton has a number of potential scholarships for postgraduate students. In conjunction with Santander the university has awards of 250 5,000 for UK and international postgraduate students. We also have the University of Roehampton 2025 Scholarship which offers a 4,000 fee reduction in the first year of study, the Vice-Chancellor s Scholarship Scheme for international students and a 20% reduction in fees for Roehampton Alumni applying to study within 7 years of graduation.

7 Study and research experience 33% of research internationally excellent or world class (RAE2008) The 2008 research Assessment Exercise (RAE) found that 78% of research at Roehampton was of an internationally recognised standard and our 29 research centres (including the Digby Stuart Centre for Religion, Society and Human Flourishing) attract students from all over the world. They offer the chance for Masters, MPhil and PhD students from all research programmes to engage in the cross disciplinary exchange of ideas and socialise with other members of the graduate school. Within the library we have a designated research study room, subject specific librarians and graduate focused research training sessions.

8 For more information Masters course information can be found at Open days are a great opportunity to see the campus and meet the staff for yourself. Visit to register for the next event. How to apply To apply for an MA course visit Contact us For further information or to arrange a visit to the campus, please do not hesitate to contact the MA programme convenor, Dr Lynn Thomas on lynn.thomas@roehampton.ac.uk or our general enquiries team on enquiries@roehampton.ac.uk or The university is popular with students and performs strongly in terms of retention and employability. There is a broad range of expertise across the arts and humanities, social sciences and the human and life sciences. Guardian, 29th May 2012