MA Religion

Program Overview

The MA in Religion at the University of Bristol offers a comprehensive exploration of religious studies, enabling students to engage with key issues in the history and practice of religion, both in a historical and contemporary context. The program emphasizes the importance of religious literacy and the development of critical thinking skills, enabling students to understand the diverse ways in which religion influences global politics, culture, and individual lives. The program's flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether focusing on specific religious traditions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, or Buddhism, or engaging with broader topics like religious ethics, law, or spirituality. Through a combination of seminars, lectures, and independent research, students will deepen their understanding of religion's place in society and its impact on modern issues, such as globalization, social justice, and conflict resolution.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA in Religion at the University of Bristol is designed to provide a balanced approach between the academic study of religion and the critical analysis of religious practices and beliefs. The program covers a range of topics, including the historical development of religious traditions, religious texts, and theological debates, while also addressing contemporary issues such as secularism, religion and politics, and religious ethics. Core modules typically include subjects like the comparative study of world religions, the philosophy of religion, and the sociology of religion. In addition to these core modules, students have the flexibility to choose electives that reflect their individual interests, such as religious diversity, interfaith relations, and religion's role in public life. The program culminates in a dissertation, which allows students to engage in in-depth research on a topic of their choice, further developing their analytical and writing skills.

Research Focus: The MA in Religion at the University of Bristol emphasizes a research-driven approach to the study of religion, encouraging students to engage critically with contemporary debates and research in the field. The research focus includes an exploration of the historical, philosophical, and sociological dimensions of religion, with an emphasis on understanding religion as a lived experience. Students have the opportunity to investigate a wide range of topics, including the impact of religion on social movements, the intersection of religion and politics, and the role of religious narratives in shaping cultural identity. The program also emphasizes the importance of original research, with students encouraged to undertake independent study and contribute to ongoing academic discussions in the field of religious studies. Faculty members at Bristol are active researchers in diverse areas of religion, offering students a chance to work alongside experts and contribute to cutting-edge research.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a significant aspect of the MA in Religion at the University of Bristol. The program connects students with a variety of industries and sectors where religious knowledge and understanding are valuable, such as education, public policy, non-profit organizations, media, and international development. Students benefit from networking opportunities with religious organizations, policymakers, and practitioners in interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding. Guest speakers from various sectors provide valuable insights into the practical applications of religious studies, while internships and placements give students hands-on experience in roles where an understanding of religion and cultural diversity is essential. The university’s strong connections with local and international organizations also offer students opportunities to engage in meaningful projects and gain practical skills that complement their academic studies.

Global Perspective: The MA in Religion at the University of Bristol offers a global perspective on the study of religion, recognizing that religion plays a crucial role in shaping cultures, societies, and global conflicts. Students are encouraged to examine the role of religion in a variety of cultural and political contexts, from the global impact of religious movements to the influence of religion in local communities. The program’s diverse student body and faculty foster a rich exchange of ideas from different cultural and religious backgrounds, enhancing the global outlook of the program. Additionally, the University of Bristol has strong international connections and research collaborations, providing students with opportunities to engage with global religious issues, whether through fieldwork, conferences, or study abroad programs. This global perspective ensures that graduates of the program are well-equipped to understand and navigate the complex religious landscapes of the modern world, both in their careers and in their academic pursuits.