MA History/Theology & Religious Studies

About this course

History and theology and religious studies is a combination that brings two of the humanities' most significant disciplines into productive dialogue. History is the study of change and continuity in human societies through time, developing the skills to analyse sources, evaluate competing interpretations, and construct arguments about how and why the past unfolded as it did. Theology and religious studies examines the beliefs, practices, texts, and institutions of religious traditions, as well as the broader philosophical and ethical questions that religion raises about the nature of reality, value, and human experience. The two disciplines are deeply connected: religious belief and practice have been among the most powerful forces shaping human history, and historical understanding is indispensable for anyone seeking to engage seriously with religious traditions. The part-time History and Theology and Religious Studies programme at the University of Glasgow draws on a wide-ranging history programme spanning medieval to modern times and covering Scottish, British, European, American, and global history, with particular strengths in slavery studies, gender history, and studies of war, intelligence, and genocide. Your theology and religious studies component develops your understanding of religious traditions and the intellectual questions they raise, from close reading of primary texts to broader thematic and comparative approaches. A year abroad gives you the opportunity to study at a partner institution with relevant research strengths, broadening your historical and theological perspectives. Graduates from history and theology programmes pursue careers in education, heritage, journalism, the civil service, the charitable sector, religious organisations, community work, and a wide range of roles where the combination of historical understanding and engagement with religious and ethical questions is valued. Many also pursue postgraduate study in history, theology, religious studies, or related humanities disciplines.

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