BA (Hons) Theological Studies

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Theological Studies at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, offers a rigorous and deeply engaging academic exploration of Christian theology within an ecclesial context. This three-year undergraduate degree is rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, while simultaneously embracing a broad and critical understanding of theological and religious studies. The program provides students with a comprehensive grounding in key areas such as biblical studies, church history, systematic theology, and ethics. It fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and an empathetic understanding of faith traditions and their influence on society. St. Mary's offers a unique learning environment where students can study alongside seminarians at both the university campus and Allen Hall Seminary, providing an unparalleled immersion into the intellectual and spiritual life of the Church. This distinctive approach also offers the unique opportunity to pursue an Ecclesiastical degree, the Sacred Baccalaureate in Theology (STB), awarded through Mater Ecclesiae College, the Pontifical Faculty at St. Mary's. The program aims to produce highly literate and critically aware graduates equipped for diverse roles in a complex world.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Theological Studies program at St. Mary's is structured to provide a progressive and comprehensive understanding of theological disciplines. In the first year, students build foundational knowledge through core modules such as "Church History: Origins to Early Modern Period," "Fundamentals of Systematic Theology," "Johannine Writings – The Letters and Revelation," "Psalms & Canticles," "Introduction to Sacraments," "Theology of the Eucharist," and "Introduction to Liturgy." These modules introduce students to the breadth of theological inquiry, from scriptural foundations to historical development and sacramental theology. The second year delves deeper into systematic and historical theology with modules like "God in Christ," "Theological Anthropology," "Canon Law," "Old Testament Prophets and Historical Books," and "Fundamental Moral Theology," along with further Church History. The final year culminates in an "Extended Essay" (dissertation) and includes advanced modules such as "Ecclesiology and Mariology," "Ecumenism and Interfaith," "Personal Ethics," "Social Ethics," "Marriage & Family Life," "Theology of Orders and Ministry," and "Penance & Anointing," allowing for in-depth study of contemporary theological and ethical issues.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Theological Studies program at St. Mary's University is deeply informed by a strong research ethos, with its curriculum and teaching drawing directly from the active research interests of its academic staff. The School of Theology at St. Mary's boasts a distinguished faculty with expertise across systematic theology, ethics, spirituality, biblical studies, canon law, and pastoral theology. The university houses renowned Research Centres, including the Benedict XVI Centre for Religion and Society, the Centre for Bioethics and Emerging Technologies, and the Centre for Catholic Education, Research and Religious Literacy. These centres contribute to mould-breaking research in theology and ethics, influencing the content taught in the degree. The final year "Extended Essay" is a cornerstone of the program, providing students with a significant opportunity to undertake original academic research under expert supervision, engaging with contemporary scholarly debates and contributing to the ongoing intellectual life of the department.

Industry Engagement: While not an overtly "industry-focused" program in the traditional sense, the BA (Hons) Theological Studies at St. Mary's University offers significant engagement with relevant sectors and pathways for professional development. The program is particularly suited for those considering Christian ministry, meeting intellectual formation requirements for ordination in the Catholic Church. The unique opportunity to study alongside seminarians at Allen Hall provides direct exposure to a vocational context. For lay persons, the degree develops highly transferable skills such as critical analysis, empathetic understanding, communication, and reflective practice, which are highly valued in various professions. The university's Careers Service provides tailored advice and support for theological studies graduates, with links to the third sector, Church organisations, and educational professionals. Graduates often find pathways into chaplaincy, religious organisations, charities, research, and education. The program aims to equip students with the necessary skills to engage in informed dialogue about theological, religious, and ethical issues in diverse professional settings.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Theological Studies program at St. Mary's University inherently fosters a profound global perspective, recognising the universal reach and diverse expressions of faith and the critical role of theology in understanding global cultures and societies. The curriculum explores Christian traditions and contemporary theological issues within their global contexts, examining diverse interpretations and their relevance across continents. Modules on ecumenism and interfaith dialogue specifically address the complexities of religious pluralism in a globalised world, promoting mutual understanding and respectful engagement. The program's connection with Mater Ecclesiae College, a Pontifical Faculty, links it directly to the global academic network of the Catholic Church. Furthermore, the program includes a unique academic trip to Rome, where students explore significant religious and historical sites such as the Vatican Museum and the Colosseum, deepening their understanding of the Church's global heritage and influence. This comprehensive global outlook prepares graduates to engage thoughtfully with religious and ethical issues in a diverse and interconnected world.