School of Divinity

University of Edinburgh

The School of Divinity at the University of Edinburgh is one of the largest centres in the UK for the study of religion. This means we can offer our students a wide range of specialist degree programmes and course options. In addition, we have eight active research centres and networks and regular research seminars. These make for a stimulating environment for postgraduate research study and provide many opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Our postgraduate department offers you the chance to engage with cutting-edge research on theology and religion in a wide variety of areas. For us, learning is something that staff and students do together through our dedicated and diverse community. We have around 150 postgraduate students and 300 undergraduates, who are drawn from many parts of the world. Nearly 40 full-time academic staff include internationally respected scholars in a wide range of specialisms.

Why study at the School of Divinity?

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 ranked the School first in Scotland and fifth in the UK for its research power in theology and religious studies. Our research activity is world-leading across a wide range of activities

We encourage the internationalisation of study and research. We value equality and diversity in the School community and welcome students and staff from all over the world, bringing together different perspectives, religious and cultural backgrounds

Community is what sets our School of Divinity apart. Time and time again students tell us that this is what drew them to New College and what they liked the most about studying here.

150

postgraduate students

8

courses

8th

in the world for the study of theology, divinity and religious studies by the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025.

Edinburgh  United Kingdom

main campus

About the School of Divinity

Our postgraduate department ethos is to promote excellence in postgraduate study, within a stimulating and supportive environment. We value equality and diversity in the School community, and an academic culture that is both critical and constructive.

We are one of the biggest centres in the UK for the study of theology and religion with the largest number of research-active faculty members in Scotland and the third largest in the UK.

Our research environment is enhanced by research seminars: Regular occasions enjoyed by academic staff, research and taught postgraduates. Students also benefit from gatherings with faculty members and fellow students, where we offer a supportive forum in which to discuss issues as diverse as work-life balance or publishing strategies.

Discover our range of masters programmes:

  • Biblical Studies MTh, MSc
  • Religious Studies MSc
  • Theology in History MTh, MSc
  • World Christianity MTh, MSc
  • Science and Religion MSc
  • Religion and Literature MTh, MSc
  • Buddhist Studies MTh, MSc
  • Philosophy, Science and Religion (Online Learning) MSc, PgDip, PgCert

At the School of Divinity we try our best to make you feel part of our community and help postgraduate students integrate into life at New College, the University, Scotland, and the UK. When you join the School you will be invited to Welcome Week, an intensive introduction to study and life in Edinburgh.

Our community benefits from monthly gatherings with academic staff and students which offer a supportive forum to discuss issues such as work-life balance, publishing strategies, and dealing with writer’s block. We also have an active postgraduate student committee that organises regular social events.

Scotland’s inspiring capital will be the backdrop to your life. One of Europe’s great cultural hubs and a stimulating place to study, Edinburgh is an irresistible blend of history, natural beauty and modern city life. Regularly voted one of the most desirable places to live in the world, it is large enough to offer something for everyone but small enough to feel like home. It is a modern, sophisticated and beautiful European city with a diverse multicultural community. Well known for its friendly people, its safe green environment and its compact size – Edinburgh is easy to get around and get away from it all – wherever you are in the city, you are never far from open countryside.


Main campus

University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh

Scotland

United Kingdom

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History & Archaeology (19) Theology & Religious Studies (34) Philosophy (28) Biological Sciences (4) Sociology (33) Languages, Literature & Culture (21)