Religious Studies

MA in Applied Theology

Course convenor: Professor Robin Gill: R.Gill@kent.ac.uk

The central philosophy of this degree is that theology at its best is an intensely practical subject. It is grounded in society. It takes its clues from society and in turn attempts to mould society. Faith shapes practice and practice shapes faith. In exploring this two way relationship theology brings together the skills of philosophical theology with those of the social sciences. Through this relationship applied theology looks to the fresh and creative ways in which theological vision can transform everyday life.

This taught Master's degree in Applied Theology, the first of its type in the South East, is designed specifically to bring together the various skills that make up Applied Theology. All those taking part will take the foundation course in the first year: Theology and Social Structure. In their first or second year they will take one of the MA courses offered by the Board of Religious Studies and a further course in social science or politics. These courses are all examined by extended essays. A dissertation, mapped around the specific interests of individuals, will seek to bring these various skills together.

The Course

Theology and Social Sciences

This course acts as a foundation for all those taking the degree. It will be taught in weekly seminars by the Director, Professor Robin Gill, author of The Social Context of Theory, Theology and Sociology, Beyond Decline, Competing Convictions, The Myth of the Empty Church, Churchgoing and Christian Ethics and several other internationally recognised books in Applied Theology.

One of the following courses in the Board of Theology and Religious Studies:

  • Theology and Christian Ethics
  • Biblical Interpretation

One of the following courses, sbject to availability:

  • Psychology of Religion
  • Mysticism and Religious Experience
  • Health Care and Ethics
  • Theology and Christian Ethics*
  • Biblical Interpretation*
  • Biblical Interpretation*

(* If not already taken) Or another suitable course from the various Master's degrees offered in the University.

A dissertation: normally of 15,000 words, on a topic within Applied Theology approved by the Director. This might be a topic of direct relevance to parish life, or might be on areas such as prisons, hospitals, youth or the unemployed. Whatever the topic finally chosen, the aim is to apply theology in a distinctive and creative way which takes full account of social realities.

Length of Study

The course may be taken either part-time or full-time. Full-time students register for one year (October - September) and normally complete their dissertation by the end of September. Part-time students register for two years. With careful selection of courses part-time candidates should be able to cluster regular contact hours into a single day per week during term-time. The relevant courses in the Board of Theology and Religious Studies are all offered on a Monday.

Applying for the Programme

Application forms and a Graduate Prospectus are available from:

Postgraduate Secretary
Room 114 Cornwallis NW
University of Kent, Canterbury
Kent
England
CT2 7NF

Email:

Tel: +44 (0)1227 827283
Fax: +44 (0)1227 823741

Or applications can be made online: apply online

Contact Professor Robin Gill, the course convenor, for further information. He can be reached on the above numbers or by email: R.Gill@kent.ac.uk

Religious Studies, School of European Culture and Languages, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NF

Enquiries: +44 (0)1227 827159 or email Religious Studies

Last Updated: 12/10/2011