Classical Studies, Religious Studies, Education Studies, BA, at University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Course Overview

The programme is composed of three parts: Classical Studies, Religious Studies and Education studies. Two modules in each of these three subjects are taken at every level of study.

In the Classical studies section of their programme students will explore their interest in the cultures, literatures and languages of the ancient world, then this is the programme for you. A degree in Classical Studies gives you the opportunity to study a wide range of modules from mythology to religion and all genres of ancient literature, such as epic, tragedy, comedy and satire. Modules exploring the influence of the ancient world on modern popular culture, such as film and literature, are also available. Study of ancient language is an option but not compulsory.

In the Religious Studies part of their course students will explore religion in their cultural, social, and historical contexts. You will examine the roles that religions play in the pressing issues of our era. The programme takes students beyond superficial media coverage of contemporary events into deeper issues of history, identity, and the implications of religious commitment for issues of world concern. The course covers an extensive array of contemporary, thematic and historical topics and a wide range of religious traditions. This gives students a real insight into the human condition and the multiplicity of religious beliefs and practices in the world.

The Education Studies component of this major/minor degree comprises two modules of study per year over the three years of your degree. Modules within the Education Studies part of the degree will cover a range of themes including, for example, the historical development of education, learning cultures and approaches to learning, the philosophy of learning and education, and the legal frameworks within which education operates today.

In your first year of study, you will undertake modules that will enable you to explore key educational debates regarding the relations between learning, knowledge, and education in contemporary society; this will provide an overview of the associated aims and values which have underpinned education.

During the second year of study you will undertake a 20-credits module entitled 'Learning in an Inclusive Environment'. As part of this module, you will have the opportunity for gaining valuable work experience through a work placement. This placement may be in a classroom, museum or other contexts which respond to education in its broadest sense. The work will provide you with an insight into the application of concepts and ideas that surround education. Further it offers an opportunity to gain first-hand experience that will support your future career aspirations. In your second year you will also study a module that explores educational identities in relation to knowledge, power, culture and social relations.

Finally, in your third year of study you will have the opportunity to either take a 40-credits dissertation that combines elements of your Education Studies with your chosen Humanities subject, or take a 20-credit Independent Project plus a 20-credit Practical Placement. The latter module might involve an observation in a local school, college, organisation or learning/teaching contexts within the community.

There is clear emphasis on enhancing your employability through ensuring that the modules enable you to develop a range of transferable skills for the workplace. Indeed, you will have the opportunity to develop such skills via, for example, a compulsory work placement, seminar presentations and a practice-based, work related dissertation.

Key Features

Reasons to choose this course:

Small classes with interactive learning
Work placement
Strongly vocational course
Invaluable pathway to PGCE
Opportunity to construct your own degree scheme
Training in research methods
Use of local record office and museum resources
Local and international field trips, as well as study abroad opportunities
Innovative teaching methods
Study visits to national parks, local heritage centres, museums, the National Library of Wales and galleries

Modules

Typical modules include: