Philosophy of Religion and Ethics (MA)

Course content

There are two modules in the philosophy of religion strand of the course: a module examining concepts of God, and a module examining religious and spiritual practice, and its significance for our understanding of the nature of a good human life. You choose one of these modules if studying the PGCert, and can take both modules if studying the Diploma or MA.

You also take a core module in ethical theory, and choose from optional modules on a range of ethical themes, such as life and death, the environment, and the nature of justice.

The dissertation enables you to investigate a topic of your choice at length with the support of a supervisor, and to apply the knowledge and skills in independent research that you have developed in the course. As an MA student, you have the option of taking fewer optional modules and writing an extended dissertation instead.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

For the MA, PGDip and PGCert, you take Introduction to Ethics and at least one philosophy of religion module, plus at least one optional module. MA students take a standard or an extended dissertation. PGDip students have the option of taking a standard dissertation.

• Introduction to Ethics: Reasons, Motivation, Obligations and Happiness 15 credits

Optional modules

• Philosophy and Spiritual Practice 30 credits
• Concepts of God 30 credits
• Justice: Fairness, Equality and Diversity 15 credits
• Global Environmental Ethics 15 credits
• Business Ethics 15 credits
• Current Developments in Health Care Ethics 30 credits
• Ethical Issues at the Beginning of Life 15 credits
• Ethical Issues at the End of Life 15 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Philosophy of Religion and Ethics MA Distance Learning in the course catalogue

For more information on typical modules, read Philosophy of Religion and Ethics MA Part Time in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

This course is taught entirely online, so you can fit your studies around your social and professional life. You'll be able to access a wide range of teaching and learning resources through our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and use the University Library's online resources for your own independent research. You'll also be able to discuss issues arising from your studies with other students through our forums.

Assessment

For most modules, you keep a weekly log, in which you reflect on the study exercises for the week. In addition, you make regular contributions to discussion forums, and write one or more essays. The discussion forum contributions and essays determine the final module mark.

Applying, fees and funding

Entry requirements

The normal entry requirement is an honours degree, equivalent to a British BA honours degree (2.1 or higher), in a relevant humanities or social science subject. Other applications will be considered where there is evidence of relevant experience, background or private study in the field.

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information contact the School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science admissions team.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

How to apply

Application deadlines

There is no final deadline for applications, but we recommend you apply as early as possible. For UK/EU candidates we recommend submitting your application no later than two weeks before the start of the course, and at least one month before the start date for international students.

• Apply (Distance learning)
• Apply (Part time)

This link takes you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.
 
If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Documents and information you'll need

• Your degree certificate and transcripts, or a partial transcript if you're still studying.
• Two academic references.
• A sample of your written work (2,000-3,000 words) on a topic relevant to the programme. All samples must be typed and in English.

Fees

UK/EU: £8,250 (total)

International: £8,250 (total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Part-time fees are normally calculated based on the number of credits you study in a year compared to the equivalent full-time course. For example, if you study half the course credits in a year, you will pay half the full-time course fees for that year.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government.  Find out more at Masters funding overview.

Career opportunities

The MA Philosophy of Religion and Ethics will be of interest to teachers of Philosophy and Religious Studies for professional development purposes. The course can also provide a route into a research degree in the fields of philosophy of religion and ethics. Equally, the important skills of argumentation and clear expression that are developed in the programme will be valuable in a wide range of work settings.

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