MA Theology

One of the big strengths of our Theology MA is how well it matches the current research interests of our academic staff. That means you get the maximum benefit of our expertise whichever module options you choose. We will train you in research methodologies and skills so that you can engage with key texts and sources, we can also help you develop expertise in biblical languages as well as Latin, patristic Greek and Aramaic if you need it.

You will have the chance to take an interdisciplinary approach to Theology, which is increasing in popularity and importance with Research Councils. You might choose to exchange insights with disciplines like Philosophy, Anthropology, Sociology, Archaeology, Classics and Ancient History.

We pride ourselves on being a friendly and supportive department. We are always happy to make time to talk to you one-to-one and give you all the support you need to be a success. We hope you will join us at Exeter and become an active part of our vibrant research community.

Programme Structure

Students on the MA Theology study 180 credits in total. All students study the dissertation and the compulsory modules Research Skills in Theology and Research Proposal in Theology. You will choose your remaining credits from a range of Masters modules. Any requests to take modules outside of the Department of Theology and Religion are dependent on the agreement of the programme director.

Compulsory modules

The compulsory modules can include:

• Research Skills in Theology
• Dissertation
• Research Proposal in Theology

Optional modules

Some examples of the optional modules which may be available are:

• Reception of Christian and Jewish Traditions
• Intermediate Biblical Hebrew
• Introducing Biblical Hebrew
• Approaches to Biblical Studies

The modules listed here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

Research areas

We have a very active research culture with international scholars who are publishing cutting-edge research, we encourage interdisciplinary and collaborative research which is reflected in our projects.

Our research focuses on the interaction between theology and matters of current social and political importance. Some of our specialist areas of interest include:

• The relationship of Christian theology with environmental concerns
• Urban planning, criminal justice, international law, sexuality and gender, and the visual arts
• Interfaith dialogue between the Abrahamic faiths; sacramental theology
• Ecumenical theology, especially in Ireland
• Christian theology and science

We also operate the Exeter Centre for Ethics and Practical Theology (EXCEPT) which provides a centre for research into contextual, practical and ministerial theology. Our Network for Religion in Public Life promotes co-operation between academics and religious communities on matters concerning the relationship between religions and public and political issues. And our Centre for Biblical Studies provides a focus for a range of research activity and research projects including seminars, public lectures and hosting academic visitors.

You can find out more about our Academic Staff and their research interests from the Theology web pages.

Visit the MA Theology page on the University of Exeter website for more details!