MA Religions and Theology / Course details

A ‘Directed Reading’ course-unit allows you to explore a particular topic in Religions and Theology which is relevant to your wider research interests but is not covered by the regular menu of course-units offered by the department. This is an independent study unit, supported by regular supervision (on a one-to-one or small-group basis) from a member of academic staff with expertise in your chosen field. It is assessed by an extended essay on a topic devised by you, in consultation with your supervisor.  Where appropriate, Directed Reading study will be further supported by ‘auditing’ (that is: attending lectures and seminars of) a relevant higher-level undergraduate course-unit. Capacity on Directed Reading units is limited: if you are interested in taking this option, you should discuss your plans with the Programme Director at the earliest possible opportunity. 

• To explore a particular topic in the study of religions, theology, or philosophy independently and in depth. 
• To develop skills in independent research, and in writing up the results of that research. 
• In particular, to enhance students’ skills in synthesising, and critically engaging with, current scholarship on a particular topic in the study of religions, theology, or philosophy , and their skills in close reading of ancient texts and other evidence. 
• To prepare for and enhance your knowledge and research skills as preparation for your MA dissertation project. 

• Detailed knowledge of a particular topic in the study of religions, theology, or philosophy  
• Detailed and critical understanding of the current state of scholarship on that topic, and the ways in which that scholarship might be developed. 
• Detailed knowledge and understanding of primary and secondary sources relevant to the chosen topic. 

• the ability to define a research problem and devise a solution to it 
• the ability to organise complex arguments 
• the ability to demonstrate advanced analytical skills, to evaluate ancient texts, and to engage critically with secondary scholarship 

• independent research skills  
• the ability to design and write a lengthy (3,000 words)  piece of work;  
• skills in finding and use a wide range of research materials, including pertinent scholarly works.