MA Religious Studies

Postgraduate Entry Requirement:

• Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs at the University of Chester are required to have completed their undergraduate studies with a minimum overall percentage of 55% or above.
• English Language Proficiency: As with undergraduate programs, applicants must provide proof of English language proficiency by achieving the following scores:
  • IELTS: A minimum score of 6.5 overall, with no individual band score below 5.5.
  • TOEFL: A minimum score of 88 on the Internet-based Test (iBT), with no section below 17.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum score of 62 overall, with no communicative skills score below 51.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Chester offers various scholarships and financial support options to international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, support students with financial needs, and promote diversity and inclusivity. 

1. International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is available to international undergraduate and postgraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. The scholarship provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £2,000 for the first year of study. The selection is based on academic achievement and personal statement.
2. Chevening Scholarships: The University of Chester is a participating institution in the prestigious Chevening Scholarship program. Chevening Scholarships are awarded by the UK government to outstanding individuals with leadership potential from around the world. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances for a one-year master's degree.
3. Commonwealth Scholarships: The university participates in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), offering scholarships to students from Commonwealth countries. These scholarships cover full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for selected master's degree programs.
4. Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships: The Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships are open to international students applying for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree at the University of Chester. The scholarships provide a tuition fee reduction of £2,000 for the first year of study. Students are automatically considered for this scholarship based on their application.
5. Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of Chester offers country-specific scholarships to students from selected countries. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria, funding amount, and application process. They are designed to attract talented students from specific regions and support their educational journey at the university.
6. Alumni Discount: The University of Chester offers an Alumni Discount to international students who have previously completed a degree at the university and wish to pursue further studies. This discount provides a reduction in tuition fees for eligible students.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year.

Graduates of the MA Religious Studies program from the University of Chester have diverse and promising career opportunities in various fields.

1. Academic Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers as academic researchers, contributing to the study and understanding of religious traditions through research and publications.

2. Religious Educator: Opportunities exist as religious educators, teaching religious studies in educational institutions at various levels.

3. Interfaith Dialogue Coordinator: Graduates may work as interfaith dialogue coordinators, facilitating discussions and understanding among different religious communities.

4. Nonprofit Sector: Graduates can work with nonprofit organizations focused on religious tolerance, diversity, and interfaith initiatives.

5. Counselor or Chaplain: Graduates may become counselors or chaplains, providing spiritual and emotional support in healthcare settings, prisons, or the military.

6. Religious Journalist: Opportunities exist in religious journalism, reporting on religious events, beliefs, and issues for newspapers, magazines, or online platforms.

7. Public Relations: Graduates can work in public relations roles for religious organizations, helping to manage communication and outreach efforts.