MBA Master of Business Administration
The MBA program at Durham University is a full-time, intensive course aimed at developi...
MA Religion and Society
Durham City
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
The MA in Religion and Society at Durham University examines the ways in which religious beliefs, practices, and institutions interact with various aspects of society, including law, politics, human rights, and cultural identity. The program takes a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from sociology, anthropology, theology, and political science. It is designed for students interested in exploring contemporary religious issues, secularization, interfaith relations, and the role of religion in shaping social and political structures. The program prepares graduates for careers in research, policy-making, journalism, education, and international development.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA in Religion and Society is structured to provide a broad yet in-depth understanding of religious and societal dynamics. Core modules typically include Religion in the Contemporary World, Research Methods in Theology and Religion, and Religion, Ethics, and Public Life. Students can choose from a range of elective modules focusing on topics such as Global Christianity, Islamic Thought in Modern Contexts, Religion and Media, and Interfaith Dialogue. The program culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice under the supervision of leading scholars in the field. This research component ensures that students develop strong analytical, critical thinking, and methodological skills.
Research Focus: Durham University is a global leader in the study of religion and society, with its Department of Theology and Religion consistently ranked among the top in the world. The program benefits from Durham’s strong research culture, with faculty members actively engaged in groundbreaking studies on religious pluralism, secularization, migration, and faith-based activism. Students have access to internationally recognized research centers such as the Centre for Catholic Studies and the Centre for the Study of Religion and Public Life. Research at Durham emphasizes real-world applications, helping students understand how religious beliefs and institutions shape public policies, social justice movements, and cultural transformations.
Industry Engagement: Durham University’s MA in Religion and Society program provides students with opportunities to engage with key institutions and professionals in the field. Guest lectures, seminars, and workshops are conducted by scholars, religious leaders, policymakers, and representatives from NGOs and interfaith organizations. The university maintains strong links with government agencies, faith-based organizations, and international institutions, offering students networking opportunities, internships, and fieldwork experiences. These engagements allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts, enhancing their career prospects in sectors such as public policy, social work, humanitarian aid, and conflict resolution.
Global Perspective: The MA in Religion and Society at Durham University embraces a global perspective, recognizing that religious issues transcend national boundaries. The program encourages students to explore religious diversity, interfaith relations, and the impact of religion on international politics and human rights. Durham University attracts students from around the world, fostering an intellectually diverse and inclusive environment. The program also benefits from Durham’s global research collaborations and partnerships with universities and organizations across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America. This international outlook ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work in multicultural and global settings.
Location
Durham City
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 22900
Postgraduate Entry Requirements:
- Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% to 70% or equivalent.
- English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92, with at least 23 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 59.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
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.
Durham University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to both domestic and international students.
Durham University Scholarships and Bursaries: These are awarded to both undergraduate and postgraduate students based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria such as subject area or country of origin.
Durham International Scholarships: These are awarded to exceptional international students who are pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the university. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition fees and is renewable for the duration of the course.
Government Scholarships: Durham University participates in a number of government scholarship programs, including the Chevening Scholarship and the Commonwealth Scholarship.
College-Specific Scholarships: Some colleges at Durham University offer scholarships and bursaries to their students, such as the Van Mildert College Music Scholarship and the St. Mary's College Travel Grant.
Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Durham University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be discipline-specific or focused on supporting students from specific regions or countries.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships: The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships are prestigious scholarships awarded to exceptional international students across all academic disciplines. These scholarships cover the full tuition fees and provide a generous living allowance for the duration of the program. The selection process is highly competitive and based on academic merit and leadership potential.
Graduates of the MA Religion and Society program at Durham University are equipped with valuable skills and knowledge that open doors to diverse career opportunities.
Academia and Research: Graduates can pursue further academic studies, including Ph.D. research, and become researchers or professors in religious studies or related fields.
Interfaith Dialogue and Community Relations: Graduates can work in organizations that promote interfaith dialogue, understanding, and cooperation within diverse communities.
Nonprofit and Charitable Organizations: The program's understanding of religion's impact on societies prepares graduates for roles in nonprofit and charitable organizations addressing social issues.
Policy and Advocacy: Graduates can contribute to policy development and advocacy efforts concerning religious freedom, human rights, and social justice.
Cultural Institutions: Graduates may work in museums, cultural institutions, or heritage organizations, curating exhibits related to religion and society.
Journalism and Media: Graduates can pursue careers in journalism, reporting on religious affairs and their implications for society.
