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MA in Theory and Method in the Study of Religion

The MA in Theory and Method in the Study of Religion provides a core training for students wanting to pursue further postgraduate research or research in other contexts. The programme provides an overview of key theoretical debates in the study of religion, as well as methodological issues and approaches for conducting field-work. Students are also able to select option modules that will help them to develop their specific interests. As demand for doctoral research funding becomes increasingly competitive, this programme will also provide guidance on seeking funding and writing research proposals, as well as the opportunity to refine ideas for a research project through the taught modules and dissertation.

Course content
A 12-month MA programme (180 credits) by full-time study, or 24-months for part-time study. It is also possible to enrol for 12-month, part-time study, for a PG Cert in Theory and Method in the Study of Religion (60 credits), taking the two core modules listed (*) below.

Core modules

• Theory and the study of religion*
• Methodological approaches to the study of religion*
• Dissertation

Illustrative optional modules (two from)

• Religion and globalization
• Cultural approaches to the study of the sacred
• William James and the study of religious experience
• Religion and social theory
• Contemporary social theory
• Critical literature review (focused on specific areas of student interest)

A wider range of other modules, including specialist training in quantitative methods, can also be made available subject to discussion with the programme convenor.

Who should apply?
Applications are welcome from any student with a relevant humanities or social sciences degree, with a grade of at least 2:1.

How to apply
For more information about the programme, please contact the programme convenor, Prof Gordon Lynch (email). For more general information about postgraduate study at Kent, including how to apply online, please visit http://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgrad/.