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Masters Degree in Religious Studies
Find postgrad programs in RELIGIOUS STUDIESThere is a wide range of degree options when it comes to choosing a religious studies degree program in the UK. Students on most masters degrees in religious studies come from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, including theology, humanities, social sciences and health or public services.
You may have an interest in one specific religion that you want to pursue – examples of these postgraduate courses include
- MA in Jewish Studies at UCL
- MA in Bible Studies at University of St Andrews
- MA in Islamic Studies at SOAS
Alternatively, you may be interested in religion in all its diversity as a global phenomenon, exploring how faith, belief and non-belief shape politics, ethics, culture and everyday life in different parts of the world.
Some students will be taking time out of their busy professional careers to undertake a higher degree course, while many students use a masters in religious studies as ideal preparation for research PhD degrees. Others will see it as a way to deepen their understanding of contemporary debates around identity, migration, interfaith dialogue and social justice.
Masters degrees in religious studies are a thought‑provoking, academically vigorous challenge to all students who pursue them. It is a postgraduate degree program that can become highly specialist depending on your needs, and one that can be highly satisfying.
Religious studies masters – the lowdown
Most masters in religious studies take one year of full‑time study to complete in the UK. However, it is also possible to undertake the program on a part‑time basis over two or three years – this is a popular option for students who are working alongside their degree.
Some institutions also allow you to study by completing a module at a time, choosing specifically when to undertake these, so that you complete the whole program over several years around your busy lifestyle.
Distance learning programs also exist, with study done exclusively online or in blended formats that combine campus blocks with virtual learning. With many universities now offering flexible, online and evening teaching options, it should be relatively easy to choose a masters degree program that complements your learning style and life commitments.
Religious studies MA entry requirements
Most masters in religious studies require you to hold an upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent, in a relevant subject. This is usually one of the social sciences or humanities, such as sociology, theology, religion, psychology, history or English. Some departments will consider candidates with degrees from outside these subjects if they can show a strong interest in religion or relevant professional experience, so it is advisable to contact the admissions team at your chosen university.
If English is not your first language, then you will have to provide the university with evidence of English language competency via an IELTS or TOEFL certificate that meets their current entry scores.
Religious studies specialisms
There are many areas of religious studies that you may wish to specialise in as part of your masters degree, and it is worth taking your time to look at the various options and modules on offer in different programs.
Most masters in religious studies have both core and optional modules. The aim of core modules is to equip you with the necessary basic knowledge of religion, as well as the research and critical‑thinking skills needed to complete your chosen program. For example, there will usually be a module entitled ‘Introduction to Religious Studies’ and another focused on research methods in religion and theology, or similar.
Once these are completed, you will be able to complete your degree by choosing more specialist modules where you can follow your own specific interests. There will be modules that focus specifically on the customs, traditions and beliefs of different religious groups, as well as modules that study the relationship between countries, governments and certain religious communities.
Many current religious studies masters programs also offer study options about religion and politics, migration and diaspora, interfaith relations, religion and human rights, religion in the media and lived religion in contemporary cities – themes that help students connect academic theory with real‑world issues.
Studying a masters in religious studies is a particularly exciting and relevant program, as it allows you to explore some of the biggest questions and ethical dilemmas that people across the world have about their own lives every day.
Religious studies student case study
“After pursuing an undergraduate degree in nursing and working as a busy staff nurse in a local hospital, I came across people of many different faiths. I realised that sometimes, we did not always get it right in providing culturally competent care to those with more unfamiliar religions. I had always considered studying at masters level, and with my everyday dilemma, I decided to complete the masters degree program in religious studies. I am now co‑ordinating a Religion and Culture Awareness program in my hospital to make sure staff understand the specific needs of different world religions – I thoroughly enjoyed completing the program.”
Why study a religious studies MA?
There are diverse and exciting reasons why you may wish to study a religious studies masters degree. The program is sure to stimulate your mind and encourage you to ponder many ethical and cultural dilemmas that we all face today, whatever your religion or worldview.
Many people undertake a religious studies masters to have a better understanding of self and to equip themselves with more cultural and religious literacy, while also challenging their academic ability. For others it may be a new career direction after their undergraduate degree, for example moving towards chaplaincy, community work, policy roles or further academic research.
Career options for religious studies graduates
Students who complete a religious studies program have many diverse career options – many work in public sector organisations such as the emergency services, the health service or local government. Some may go on to ministry or faith‑based leadership, and others to further postgraduate study to complete a research degree such as an MPhil or PhD.
Graduates also move into roles in charities and NGOs, international development, intercultural training, publishing, teaching, museum or heritage work, and policy and advocacy positions where strong analytical skills and an understanding of religion and belief are valued.
Find postgrad programs in RELIGIOUS STUDIES