LLM Law
University College Cork offers an LLM (Master of Laws) program designed to provide adva...
BA Hons Religions and Global Diversity Arts
Cork
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA Hons Religions and Global Diversity Arts program at University College Cork (UCC) offers students a unique opportunity to explore the diverse religious traditions, cultural practices, and global perspectives shaping contemporary societies. This interdisciplinary program combines the study of religions with insights from anthropology, sociology, history, and cultural studies, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of religion in shaping individual identities, communities, and worldviews. Through a diverse range of modules, students examine the beliefs, rituals, ethics, and social dynamics of major world religions, as well as indigenous spiritualities and new religious movements. They also explore themes of globalization, interfaith dialogue, multiculturalism, and social justice, gaining critical insights into the complex intersections of religion, culture, and diversity in a globalized world.
Multidisciplinary Approach: The BA Hons Religions and Global Diversity Arts program adopts a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from religious studies, anthropology, sociology, and cultural studies to explore the diverse religious and cultural landscapes of the world. Students engage with a wide range of academic disciplines and methodologies, enabling them to analyze religious phenomena from multiple perspectives and develop a nuanced understanding of cultural diversity and complexity.
Global Perspective: The program emphasizes a global perspective, encouraging students to explore religious traditions and cultural practices from around the world. Through comparative analysis and cross-cultural studies, students examine how religious beliefs, values, and practices intersect with broader social, political, and economic processes, shaping individual identities, community dynamics, and global interconnections.
Interfaith Dialogue: One of the central themes of the program is interfaith dialogue and understanding. Students learn about the principles of dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect, engaging with diverse religious perspectives and worldviews to foster cross-cultural communication and cooperation. They explore commonalities and differences among religious traditions, critically reflecting on issues of religious pluralism, coexistence, and conflict resolution.
Cultural Diversity and Identity: The BA Hons Religions and Global Diversity Arts program examines the complex relationship between religion, culture, and identity. Students explore how religious beliefs and practices intersect with ethnicity, nationality, gender, and other dimensions of social identity, influencing individual and collective identities, belonging, and cultural expressions. They also critically analyze issues of power, privilege, and social inequality within religious and cultural contexts.
Applied Skills and Professional Development: Throughout the program, students develop a range of applied skills and competencies relevant to careers in various fields, including research, critical thinking, communication, and intercultural competence. They have the opportunity to engage in experiential learning activities, such as fieldwork, internships, and community-based projects, enhancing their practical skills and professional development for diverse career pathways in areas such as education, social services, interfaith advocacy, international development, and cultural heritage preservation.
Location
Cork
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
€ 16400
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: € 50
Academic Qualifications: For undergraduate programs, applicants require a minimum academic score of 80-85% or above in their previous studies.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 or 6.5, with no individual band below 5.5.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90, with specific section requirements: Listening 20, Reading 20, Speaking 21, Writing 20.
- PTE: Overall score of 63, with no section below 59.
- DET: Overall score of 120, with a minimum of 110.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.
University College Cork (UCC) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are aimed at assisting students with tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs.
International Merit-Based Scholarships: UCC provides merit-based scholarships for high-achieving international students entering undergraduate or postgraduate programs. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and may cover partial tuition fees or provide stipends.
Government and External Scholarships: International students may also be eligible for scholarships offered by their home governments, non-governmental organizations, or external funding bodies. UCC assists students by providing information and support in applying for these external scholarship opportunities.
Research Scholarships and Grants: For postgraduate research students, UCC offers various grants and scholarships to support research endeavors. These scholarships often cover tuition fees and provide additional stipends for living expenses.
Sports Scholarships: UCC recognizes talented athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and athletic pursuits. These scholarships assist students in balancing their sports with their studies.
Faculty-Specific Scholarships: Certain faculties or departments within UCC offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships aim to attract exceptional students to particular programs and fields of study.
Need-Based Financial Aid: The university understands the financial challenges international students might face and offers need-based financial aid programs to assist students who demonstrate financial need.
The BA Hons Religions and Global Diversity Arts program at University College Cork prepares students for diverse career pathways in education, interfaith dialogue, social services, international development, cultural heritage, media, government, and diplomacy. Graduates emerge with the knowledge, skills, and values to contribute meaningfully to a wide range of professions and to promote understanding, tolerance, and social justice in an increasingly interconnected world.
1. Education Sector: Graduates of the BA Hons Religions and Global Diversity Arts program often pursue careers in education. They can work as teachers, lecturers, or educational administrators in schools, colleges, universities, and adult education centers. Their interdisciplinary knowledge of religions, cultural diversity, and global perspectives equips them to teach subjects such as religious studies, social studies, multicultural education, and global citizenship, preparing students to navigate diverse cultural landscapes and engage critically with issues of identity, diversity, and social justice.
2. Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue Organizations: Many graduates find employment in organizations dedicated to interfaith and intercultural dialogue, conflict resolution, and community engagement. They may work for non-profit organizations, religious institutions, government agencies, or international NGOs, facilitating dialogue, promoting understanding, and fostering cooperation among diverse religious and cultural communities. Their expertise in religious studies, cultural diversity, and communication skills enables them to bridge cultural divides, build connections, and promote social cohesion in multicultural societies.
3. Social Services and Community Development: Graduates of the program are well-equipped to work in social services and community development organizations, addressing the needs of diverse communities and marginalized populations. They may work as community organizers, social workers, or outreach coordinators, designing and implementing programs and initiatives that promote social inclusion, cultural sensitivity, and empowerment. Their understanding of religious beliefs, cultural practices, and social dynamics enables them to advocate for the rights and interests of vulnerable groups and facilitate access to essential services and resources.
4. International Development and Humanitarian Aid: Some graduates pursue careers in international development and humanitarian aid organizations, working to address global issues such as poverty, conflict, and inequality. They may work for NGOs, government agencies, or international organizations, designing and implementing development projects, conducting research, and providing technical assistance in areas such as religious tolerance, cultural heritage preservation, and community resilience. Their cross-cultural competence, research skills, and knowledge of global diversity contribute to effective programming and policy-making in diverse cultural contexts.
5. Cultural Heritage and Tourism: Graduates with a specialization in cultural heritage and tourism may find employment in museums, heritage sites, cultural institutions, or tourism agencies. They may work as curators, heritage interpreters, or tourism managers, preserving and promoting cultural heritage assets, organizing exhibitions and events, and facilitating cultural exchanges. Their understanding of religious traditions, cultural practices, and historical contexts enhances visitor experiences and contributes to sustainable tourism development that respects local communities and traditions.
6. Media and Communications: Some graduates pursue careers in media and communications, working as journalists, writers, or media producers specializing in religious and cultural affairs. They may work for newspapers, magazines, television networks, or digital media platforms, reporting on religious events, cultural festivals, and social issues, and fostering public understanding and dialogue on issues of diversity, tolerance, and pluralism. Their ability to communicate complex ideas effectively and sensitively across different media platforms makes them valuable contributors to public discourse and media representation.
7. Government and Diplomacy: Graduates may also pursue careers in government, diplomacy, or international affairs, working for government agencies, diplomatic missions, or multilateral organizations. They may specialize in areas such as religious freedom, human rights, or cultural diplomacy, advocating for policies that promote religious tolerance, cultural exchange, and peaceful coexistence. Their expertise in global diversity, cultural sensitivity, and diplomatic negotiation enhances their effectiveness in addressing complex international challenges and fostering constructive dialogue and cooperation among nations and cultures.
