MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
St Mary's University Twickenham, London, offers a highly regarded MSc Applied Sport...
MA Theology
Twickenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, offers an enriching MA Theology program, designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of Christian faith and its intellectual traditions. The program fosters critical reflection on Catholic theology in a manner open to ecumenism and interreligious dialogue, inviting students from all backgrounds to engage with a variety of materials, questions, methods, and thinkers in the academic discipline of Theology. Students are instructed in the careful reading of Scripture, theological texts, and Church documents, 1 with an emphasis on the historical and philosophical influences on textual interpretation and religious practices. This program provides a robust academic foundation while also encouraging students to consider how theological research can be implemented creatively and practically in various contexts, from parish ministry to further academic pursuit.
Curriculum: The MA Theology curriculum at St. Mary's provides a broad and in-depth formation across key areas of theological study. While specific module titles can vary, the program typically covers biblical theology, systematic theology, and Christian life and practice. This includes rigorous study in areas such as historical criticism of scripture, liturgy and sacraments, Christology, moral theology, catechesis, and spirituality. Other potential areas of study include Church history, Catholic social ethics, and contemporary issues in philosophy as they relate to theology. The program is designed to introduce students to the discipline and practice of theology, particularly as handed down through the Catholic tradition, while also fostering interdisciplinary knowledge appropriate for contemporary theological study. The culmination of the program often involves a significant research project or dissertation, allowing students to delve into a specific area of theological inquiry.
Research Focus: The School of Theology at St. Mary's University boasts a strong and internationally recognized research profile, which directly informs the MA Theology program. The School has consistently ranked highly in research assessment exercises, showcasing a world-class line-up of distinguished scholars. Their research is focused in specific Research Centres, reflecting the expertise and range of interest of their staff. Key research areas include systematic theology, ethics, spirituality, biblical studies, canon law, and pastoral theology. The Benedict XVI Centre for Religion and Society, the Centre for Bioethics and Emerging Technologies, the Centre for Catholic Education, Research and Religious Literacy, and the Initiatives in Spirituality and Reconciliation are notable research hubs within the university that contribute to a vibrant scholarly environment. This active research culture ensures that students are exposed to cutting-edge theological scholarship and critical debates, learning from academics who are shaping contemporary theological thought.
Industry Engagement: St. Mary's University's MA Theology program, while academically rigorous, also maintains strong connections to professional and ecclesial contexts. The program is designed to prepare individuals for a variety of roles within the Church and wider society. While formal "industry placements" are not a standard component in the traditional sense, the curriculum often emphasizes how theological research can be applied in creative and practical ways. The university leverages its deep roots in the Catholic tradition and its links to the local Church to provide students with opportunities for pastoral orientation and engagement with real-world challenges. Faculty members often have experience in ministerial, pastoral, or educational roles, bringing valuable practical insights into the classroom. Furthermore, the university's commitment to supporting Catholic education and ministry extends to offering professional development opportunities and maintaining connections with relevant organizations.
Global Perspective: The MA Theology program at St. Mary's University inherently incorporates a global perspective, deeply rooted in the Catholic tradition which is itself a global faith. While grounded in this tradition, the program is deliberately ecumenical and welcomes students from all denominations and religious backgrounds, fostering interreligious dialogue and understanding. The curriculum often engages with theological questions and practices in diverse cultural and historical contexts, examining how faith is lived out and understood across the world. Faculty research, particularly in areas like bioethics, social ethics, and the global Church, contributes to a broader international understanding. The university's commitment to serving the local Church "in the context of an intercultural and interconnected world" highlights its global outlook, preparing graduates to engage with theological issues that transcend national boundaries and contribute to a more interconnected world.
Location
Twickenham
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 17820
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 60.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
St. Mary’s University Twickenham offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in financing their education and rewarding academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden and recognize the talents and hard work of students coming from all over the world.
International Student Scholarships: St. Mary’s provides International Student Scholarships for students from a range of countries. These scholarships are typically partial fee reductions, aimed at making education more affordable. Eligible students are selected based on academic merit, financial need, and their potential to contribute to the university community. The scholarships are open to both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to international students at St. Mary’s University. This scholarship offers a significant reduction in tuition fees for high-achieving students, with eligibility determined by academic performance and specific course requirements. Students from a variety of regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, are encouraged to apply for this highly competitive scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, St. Mary’s offers country-specific scholarships for students from certain regions. These scholarships provide additional financial assistance and are designed to support students from areas where educational opportunities may be limited. International students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas are often eligible for these specialized scholarships.
Sports Scholarships: For students excelling in sports, St. Mary’s University provides Sports Scholarships. These awards are available to talented athletes who demonstrate the potential to represent the university in competitive sports. Sports scholars benefit from personalized coaching, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and financial support to help balance academic and athletic commitments.
An MA in Theology from St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, provides graduates with a sophisticated understanding of Christian faith, its historical development, ethical dimensions, and its engagement with contemporary society. Beyond spiritual growth, this rigorous academic program cultivates highly transferable skills such as critical thinking, complex textual analysis, ethical reasoning, nuanced argumentation, and effective communication. Graduates are well-equipped for roles that demand deep empathy, intellectual leadership, and the ability to navigate complex moral and societal issues, making them valuable assets in diverse professional fields.
Chaplain (Healthcare, Education, Military, Prison): Providing spiritual care and support to individuals in various institutional settings, offering guidance, pastoral care, and facilitating religious services for people of diverse or no faith backgrounds.
Religious Education Teacher (Primary/Secondary): Teaching Religious Education in schools, particularly in faith-based institutions, leveraging their in-depth theological knowledge and understanding of pedagogical approaches.
Pastoral Worker/Ministerial Staff: Engaging in various forms of pastoral work within churches, parishes, or dioceses, which may include youth ministry, adult formation, liturgical coordination, or community outreach.
Academic/Lecturer in Theology or Religious Studies: Pursuing further doctoral studies (e.g., PhD) and teaching at universities or theological colleges, contributing to scholarly research and the intellectual development of future theologians and religious leaders.
Ethics Consultant/Analyst: Applying theological and ethical reasoning to complex moral dilemmas in fields such as healthcare, business, technology, or public policy, often for organizations, think tanks, or governmental bodies.
Charity or Non-Profit Sector Professional: Working for faith-based or secular charities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in roles such as project management, community development, advocacy, or fundraising, often focusing on social justice or humanitarian issues.
Counsellor/Pastoral Counsellor: Providing spiritual and emotional support to individuals facing personal challenges, often within church settings, counselling services, or hospice care, leveraging their understanding of human experience and faith.
Archivist/Librarian (Special Collections): Managing and preserving religious texts, historical documents, and other theological resources in academic libraries, church archives, or heritage institutions.
Journalist/Writer (Religion & Ethics): Contributing to media outlets, publishing houses, or specialized journals on topics related to religion, spirituality, ethics, and their impact on society.
Community Development Worker: Facilitating community initiatives, interfaith dialogue, or social cohesion programs, often drawing on the values and principles learned through theological study to address local needs.
