UCSM Division of Religion & Philosophy

MA in Theology

Would you like to deepen and extend your existing understanding of theology and be able to comment more effectively on important aspects of Christian life and doctrine?

The MA programme will benefit a wide range of students: graduates wishing to enhance their existing qualifications; teachers, clergy and others seeking professional development; and anyone looking to develop their knowledge and awareness of Christian theology. You can apply for this degree if you have a good Honours degree in theology or religious studies. If you have a degree in a different but related subject or are professionally qualified, we would still like to hear from you.

The degree may be undertaken by either full or part-time study (NB. the full-time route will not be available in 2003/2004). The normal pattern is one calendar year for full time and approximately two calendar years for part-time students. Recruitment is normally in September/October but the modular nature of the programme allows recruitment at other times.

You may complete the programme at any of the following stages and it may be possible to register for single modules or groups of modules.

Award	Modules	Maximum Time to Complete
Postgraduate Certificate	3	3 years
Postgraduate Diploma	PgC + 3	5 years
Masters Degree	PgD + dissertation	5 years (including PgC & PgD)

The full MA course consists of a total of six taught modules and a dissertation module of 15,000 words. The course is divided into 'Core' and 'Continuation' modules. The Core modules will normally be compulsory and focus on research in central areas of Christian theology. Continuation modules will further develop your learning in selected areas of theological research and scholarship.

Please click on the course number for more information:

Core Modules

THE 801
THE 802
THE 803

- Theology in the Modern Age
- Principles and Practice of Theological Research
- This is the Word of the Lord?

Continuation Modules

The range of continuation modules available in any year will vary depending upon student recruitment, staff availability and student needs.

THE 804
THE 805
THE 806
THE 807
THE 808
THE 809
THE 810
THE 811
THE 812
THE 813
THE 814

- Practical Theology
- Christian Ethics
- Theology of Mission
- Patterns of Ministry
- The Christian Community in Historical Context
- Christian Theology and Health
- Christian Fundamentalism and Evangelicalism
- Theology: Selected Authors
- Independent Study in Theology
- The Church in Christian Theology
- Eastern Christianity

Compulsory Module for MA

THE 815

- Dissertation in Theology

THE 801 THEOLOGY IN THE MODERN AGE

The module will begin by examining the principal features of the Enlightenment project. Key thinkers will be examined together with the consequences of their work for the shape of theology in the modern age. The remainder of the module will consider key moments in the development of modern theology, setting these against the wider backdrop of critical thinking. The module will culminate in a consideration of the development of post-modern thought. Students undertaking the module will be expected to utilise primary texts as well as secondary material in pursuing their own study and research.

THE 802 PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF THEOLOGICAL RESEARCH

The content of this module is designed to introduce students to a range of research methodologies and skills in theology. Alongside work on key research skills and generic research skills in theology, the module will focus on selected areas of research in theology. The latter will vary from time to time and will be selected in terms of currency, staff expertise and student need. This approach will ensure that students are exposed to questions of method and content in theological research, and further prepare them for their own independent study and research. The module will involve small-scale research tasks such as document searches, critical appreciation of research papers and bibliographical research. This will enable students to develop a critical appreciation of various techniques and methods. It will also develop the skills required to write both small and large-scale research assignments.

THE 803 THIS IS THE WORD OF THE LORD?

The module will begin by exploring the way Christians historically have understood and used the Bible. This will lead to an investigation into the authority of Scripture within the Christian tradition. Particular attention will be paid to questions of inerrancy, inspiration and interpretation arising historically and in current debate. This will include asking whether there are 'right' or 'wrong' readings of the Bible. Following this consideration will be given to different hermeneutical models. Finally, the module will seek to explore the use of the Bible in preaching and teaching, including the opportunity for some reflective learning.

THE 804 PRACTICAL THEOLOGY

The module will begin by exploring the history and development of practical theology. Attention will also be paid to critical issues raised by the integration of scientific and theological methods of inquiry in practical theology and to the critique of recent and current approaches to the discipline. Following this, consideration will be given to specific examples of the application of scientific methods of inquiry to the assessment of both the life and mission of the Church and the nature of Christian life and experience.

THE 805 CHRISTIAN ETHICS

The first part of the module will look at a three or four significant ways Christians have responded to ethical issues in the modern period. It will include philosophical analysis of each response to establish the character of the ethics implicit within each response. The second part of the module will explore the methodology of Christian ethics, using for example the work of Stanley Hauerwas as a point of departure for discussions. It will explore how Christian ethics is related to Christian worship, doctrine, Biblical studies, pastoral care, etc. The third part of the module will look at one specific ethical issue in contemporary life and explore the questions involved in formulating a Christian ethical response to that issue.

THE 806 THEOLOGY OF MISSION

The first part of the module will look at a number of contrasting models of mission from the modern period (such as mission as dialogue, mission as liberation, mission as church growth) and investigate the Biblical foundations, implicit doctrine and practical implications of each model. The second part of the module will explore some of the disciplines involved in formulating a contemporary and contextual theology of mission. These will include sociological analysis of communities, study of dialogue with other faiths, critical analysis of New Testament views of mission, study of doctrinal issues in missiology, and critical reflection on the different kinds of evangelistic practice employed by churches. The third part, using for example the final section of Bosch's Transforming Mission as a starting point, will explore the issues involved in formulating a contemporary theology of mission appropriate to a specific context.

THE 807 PATTERNS OF MINISTRY

The module will consider a range of questions to do with the theology and practice of ministry. Students will explore the historical and theological foundations of Christian ministry, using biblical and historical material. They will also be required to evaluate current research in ministry and selected statements about the theology and practice of ministry produced by various Church bodies. Where appropriate they will also have an opportunity to reflect critically upon their own experience of ministry. Since the module will seek to engage with current as well as historical and theological issues, the programme will vary from time to time. Topical issues might include: the relationship between lay and ordained ministry, ministry as an ecumenical issue, new and emerging patterns of ministry in a particular Church, ministry and priesthood, episcopacy and ministry, ministerial training and formation.

THE 808 CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY IN HISTORICAL CONTEXT

The module will adopt a case study approach, drawing on specific examples of historical research from either a local, regional, national or international context. Consequently the topics covered will vary from time to time depending upon the specific examples chosen by the module leader. The examples chosen will illustrate the relevance of social, political and cultural context for the study of the Christian community. The module will focus on matters of method and substance, encouraging students to develop a critical appreciation of the contribution of histiography to theological studies.

THE 809 CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY AND HEALTH

The module will begin by examining the historical interdependence between religion and health in human civilisation and their close association in the Christian tradition. It will identify and assess a range of specific areas, including, for example, Christian responses to the control of birth and death, innocent suffering, mental illness the demonic and exorcism, miracles faith healing and placebo effects, cosmetic surgery and prioritising resource allocations. Finally, it will consider Christian ministry and chaplaincy in the context of hospital and wider community health care.

THE 810 CHRISTIAN FUNDAMENTALISM AND EVANGELICALISM

The module will begin by examining the scholarly depiction of the origins of Christian Fundamentalism in the early years of the 20th century as a religious response to modernity and the subsequent schism between fundamentalists and evangelicals. The remainder of the module will examine how fundamentalist and evangelical groups have used resources such as the media, information technology, science and politics to promote themselves within the United States and the United Kingdom. Students taking the module will be expected to use both primary and secondary material in pursuing their research.

THE 811 THEOLOGY: SELECTED AUTHORS

The content of this module will vary, depending upon the authors selected. Authors will be selected on the basis of their significance for the development of Christian theology. The module will generally concentrate on medieval or modern theology and will include theologians such as Aquinas, Schleiermacher, Kierkegaard, Feuerbach, Troeltsch, Harnack, Barth, Bonhoeffer, Rahner, Metz, Pannenberg, Tracy, and Lindbeck. The module will examine the theological and philosophical context within which the author(s) worked, identify key themes in his or her theology, discuss critical issues raised by the author's work, and assess its impact on the general direction of theology. Where two authors are studied additional attention will be given to comparative study of their work.

THE 812 INDEPENDENT STUDY IN THEOLOGY

The content of this module will vary between students, depending on their agreed topics. Students will draft a proposal for study, which will be discussed initially with the either the course leader or the designated leader for this module. More detailed discussion of the study and its preparation may also take place with the appropriate course tutor. Attention throughout the study will focus on the development of worthwhile and appropriate conclusions based upon the knowledge and skills acquired. Essential elements of the module will include: a) the compilation of an appropriate bibliography; b) critical review of the relevant literature; c) a critical appreciation of the relevant research methodologies; d) an appraisal of the material; e) the production of a short summary of key aspects of the study; and f) the submission of a fully referenced written account of the study.

THE 813 THE CHURCH IN CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY

The module will be structured thematically, identifying key issues in the theology of the Church, especially as they have been exhibited in the modern period. This will be set within an historical and ecumenical context in order to establish the foundations of modern research on the theology of the Church. Particular attention will be paid to the question of the relationship between the theology of the Church and the rest of Christian theology. In surveying recent developments, consideration will be given, for example, to the recovery of the trinitarian basis of Christian theology and the implications of this for understanding the nature and identity of the Church. This will provide a platform for a consideration of key concepts such as communion, the Church and eschatology, the Church and the sacraments, etc.

THE 814 EASTERN CHRISTIANITY

The module will begin with an overview of the early history of Eastern Christianity, with special reference to the seven churches of the book of Revelation and apostolic foundations. It will then consider how and why divisions occurred within the early church, with special reference to the council of Chalcedon and the schism between Orthodoxy and Catholicism. It then narrows its focus to examine particular theological issues that acquired special importance within Orthodoxy, such as iconoclasm and hesychasm. Finally, it examines selected themes in the writings of at least two key modern Russian theologians, such as Vladimir Soloviev and Sergii Bulgakov.

THE 815 DISSERTATION IN THEOLOGY

All dissertations will be supervised by a member of the course team, selected according to the nature of the topic chosen. Initial discussion about the topic will take place with the course leader, who will then contact the appropriate staff team member. Once supervision has been arranged, other members of staff may be called upon for specialist advice, but the supervisor will retain overall responsibility for supporting the student. Supervision will follow commonly agreed procedures but its precise form will be established by negotiation. Supervisor and student will jointly establish a schedule for research, reading and for tutorial contact. Following the initial discussion of topic with the course leader, the student will prepare a detailed research plan under the supervision of either the course leader or a designated supervisor. The research plan will then be referred to the staff team for final approval. The dissertation will be the equivalent of 15,000-20,000 words, including footnotes but excluding bibliography. The topics will be related to the general areas of theology covered in the course.

THE 801	THEOLOGY IN THE MODERN AGE
The module will begin by examining the principal features of the Enlightenment project. Key thinkers will be examined together with the consequences of their work for the shape of theology in the modern age. The remainder of the module will consider key moments in the development of modern theology, setting these against the wider backdrop of critical thinking. The module will culminate in a consideration of the development of post-modern thought. Students undertaking the module will be expected to utilise primary texts as well as secondary material in pursuing their own study and research.
THE 802	PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF THEOLOGICAL RESEARCH
The content of this module is designed to introduce students to a range of research methodologies and skills in theology. Alongside work on key research skills and generic research skills in theology, the module will focus on selected areas of research in theology. The latter will vary from time to time and will be selected in terms of currency, staff expertise and student need. This approach will ensure that students are exposed to questions of method and content in theological research, and further prepare them for their own independent study and research. The module will involve small-scale research tasks such as document searches, critical appreciation of research papers and bibliographical research. This will enable students to develop a critical appreciation of various techniques and methods. It will also develop the skills required to write both small and large-scale research assignments.
THE 803	THIS IS THE WORD OF THE LORD?
The module will begin by exploring the way Christians historically have understood and used the Bible. This will lead to an investigation into the authority of Scripture within the Christian tradition. Particular attention will be paid to questions of inerrancy, inspiration and interpretation arising historically and in current debate. This will include asking whether there are 'right' or 'wrong' readings of the Bible. Following this consideration will be given to different hermeneutical models. Finally, the module will seek to explore the use of the Bible in preaching and teaching, including the opportunity for some reflective learning.
THE 804	PRACTICAL THEOLOGY
The module will begin by exploring the history and development of practical theology. Attention will also be paid to critical issues raised by the integration of scientific and theological methods of inquiry in practical theology and to the critique of recent and current approaches to the discipline. Following this, consideration will be given to specific examples of the application of scientific methods of inquiry to the assessment of both the life and mission of the Church and the nature of Christian life and experience.
THE 805	CHRISTIAN ETHICS
The first part of the module will look at a three or four significant ways Christians have responded to ethical issues in the modern period. It will include philosophical analysis of each response to establish the character of the ethics implicit within each response. The second part of the module will explore the methodology of Christian ethics, using for example the work of Stanley Hauerwas as a point of departure for discussions. It will explore how Christian ethics is related to Christian worship, doctrine, Biblical studies, pastoral care, etc. The third part of the module will look at one specific ethical issue in contemporary life and explore the questions involved in formulating a Christian ethical response to that issue.
THE 806	THEOLOGY OF MISSION
The first part of the module will look at a number of contrasting models of mission from the modern period (such as mission as dialogue, mission as liberation, mission as church growth) and investigate the Biblical foundations, implicit doctrine and practical implications of each model. The second part of the module will explore some of the disciplines involved in formulating a contemporary and contextual theology of mission. These will include sociological analysis of communities, study of dialogue with other faiths, critical analysis of New Testament views of mission, study of doctrinal issues in missiology, and critical reflection on the different kinds of evangelistic practice employed by churches. The third part, using for example the final section of Bosch's Transforming Mission as a starting point, will explore the issues involved in formulating a contemporary theology of mission appropriate to a specific context.
THE 807	PATTERNS OF MINISTRY
The module will consider a range of questions to do with the theology and practice of ministry. Students will explore the historical and theological foundations of Christian ministry, using biblical and historical material. They will also be required to evaluate current research in ministry and selected statements about the theology and practice of ministry produced by various Church bodies. Where appropriate they will also have an opportunity to reflect critically upon their own experience of ministry. Since the module will seek to engage with current as well as historical and theological issues, the programme will vary from time to time. Topical issues might include: the relationship between lay and ordained ministry, ministry as an ecumenical issue, new and emerging patterns of ministry in a particular Church, ministry and priesthood, episcopacy and ministry, ministerial training and formation.
THE 808	CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY IN HISTORICAL CONTEXT
The module will adopt a case study approach, drawing on specific examples of historical research from either a local, regional, national or international context. Consequently the topics covered will vary from time to time depending upon the specific examples chosen by the module leader. The examples chosen will illustrate the relevance of social, political and cultural context for the study of the Christian community. The module will focus on matters of method and substance, encouraging students to develop a critical appreciation of the contribution of histiography to theological studies.
THE 809	CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY AND HEALTH
The module will begin by examining the historical interdependence between religion and health in human civilisation and their close association in the Christian tradition. It will identify and assess a range of specific areas, including, for example, Christian responses to the control of birth and death, innocent suffering, mental illness the demonic and exorcism, miracles faith healing and placebo effects, cosmetic surgery and prioritising resource allocations. Finally, it will consider Christian ministry and chaplaincy in the context of hospital and wider community health care.
THE 810	CHRISTIAN FUNDAMENTALISM AND EVANGELICALISM
The module will begin by examining the scholarly depiction of the origins of Christian Fundamentalism in the early years of the 20th century as a religious response to modernity and the subsequent schism between fundamentalists and evangelicals. The remainder of the module will examine how fundamentalist and evangelical groups have used resources such as the media, information technology, science and politics to promote themselves within the United States and the United Kingdom. Students taking the module will be expected to use both primary and secondary material in pursuing their research.
THE 811	THEOLOGY: SELECTED AUTHORS
The content of this module will vary, depending upon the authors selected. Authors will be selected on the basis of their significance for the development of Christian theology. The module will generally concentrate on medieval or modern theology and will include theologians such as Aquinas, Schleiermacher, Kierkegaard, Feuerbach, Troeltsch, Harnack, Barth, Bonhoeffer, Rahner, Metz, Pannenberg, Tracy, and Lindbeck. The module will examine the theological and philosophical context within which the author(s) worked, identify key themes in his or her theology, discuss critical issues raised by the author's work, and assess its impact on the general direction of theology. Where two authors are studied additional attention will be given to comparative study of their work.
THE 812	INDEPENDENT STUDY IN THEOLOGY
The content of this module will vary between students, depending on their agreed topics. Students will draft a proposal for study, which will be discussed initially with the either the course leader or the designated leader for this module. More detailed discussion of the study and its preparation may also take place with the appropriate course tutor. Attention throughout the study will focus on the development of worthwhile and appropriate conclusions based upon the knowledge and skills acquired. Essential elements of the module will include: a) the compilation of an appropriate bibliography; b) critical review of the relevant literature; c) a critical appreciation of the relevant research methodologies; d) an appraisal of the material; e) the production of a short summary of key aspects of the study; and f) the submission of a fully referenced written account of the study.
THE 813	THE CHURCH IN CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY
The module will be structured thematically, identifying key issues in the theology of the Church, especially as they have been exhibited in the modern period. This will be set within an historical and ecumenical context in order to establish the foundations of modern research on the theology of the Church. Particular attention will be paid to the question of the relationship between the theology of the Church and the rest of Christian theology. In surveying recent developments, consideration will be given, for example, to the recovery of the trinitarian basis of Christian theology and the implications of this for understanding the nature and identity of the Church. This will provide a platform for a consideration of key concepts such as communion, the Church and eschatology, the Church and the sacraments, etc.
THE 814	EASTERN CHRISTIANITY
The module will begin with an overview of the early history of Eastern Christianity, with special reference to the seven churches of the book of Revelation and apostolic foundations. It will then consider how and why divisions occurred within the early church, with special reference to the council of Chalcedon and the schism between Orthodoxy and Catholicism. It then narrows its focus to examine particular theological issues that acquired special importance within Orthodoxy, such as iconoclasm and hesychasm. Finally, it examines selected themes in the writings of at least two key modern Russian theologians, such as Vladimir Soloviev and Sergii Bulgakov.
THE 815	DISSERTATION IN THEOLOGY
All dissertations will be supervised by a member of the course team, selected according to the nature of the topic chosen. Initial discussion about the topic will take place with the course leader, who will then contact the appropriate staff team member. Once supervision has been arranged, other members of staff may be called upon for specialist advice, but the supervisor will retain overall responsibility for supporting the student. Supervision will follow commonly agreed procedures but its precise form will be established by negotiation. Supervisor and student will jointly establish a schedule for research, reading and for tutorial contact. Following the initial discussion of topic with the course leader, the student will prepare a detailed research plan under the supervision of either the course leader or a designated supervisor. The research plan will then be referred to the staff team for final approval. The dissertation will be the equivalent of 15,000-20,000 words, including footnotes but excluding bibliography. The topics will be related to the general areas of theology covered in the course.