Course information
The MA (Hons) in Theological Studies is a four-year course run by the School of Divinity. The course combines three distinct but closely related fields of study: theology, church history and practical theology.
Modules in theology consider key topics (God, salvation, Jesus Christ, Trinity, creation) in relation to the contexts in which they emerged and developed throughout Christian history, and some of the key thinkers who developed those concepts. They also consider some of the distinctive challenges to faith in the modern world.
Modules in practical theology explore ways in which Christianity is being expressed and lived out today. They include the study of worship, spirituality and the political involvement of the churches in contemporary Britain; liturgy and social reflection in Latin America; dance, worship and healing in Africa; moral decision-making; bioethics (abortion, euthanasia, genetic engineering); political ethics (economic justice and political power, ecological issues) and personal relationships (marriage, sexuality, friendship).
The skills you gain in detailed analytical study will prepare you for your final two years, during which you will take advanced courses on primary texts of Christian theology. You will also be able to choose from a range of specialist subject modules in areas including (but not limited to):
- particular theologioans in their context
- particular doctrines
- theological ethics
- church history
- inter-religious dialogue
- Christian mysticism.
Final year students must also complete a 10,000 to 12,000-word dissertation on a Theological Studies topic chosen in consultation with teaching staff.
Find out more about studying Divinity at St Andrews.