Course Overview
This BA programme enables students to become familiar with the specifics of religious traditions and to make comparisons between the beliefs and practices of different religions, particularly in the context of a world coming to terms with its cultural and religious diversity.
Our BA degree in Religious Studies is intended to stimulate curiosity about, and fascination for, the variety of religious cultures across the globe and to open up a greater awareness of plurality within religious traditions and within societies at large. This gives students a real insight into the human condition and the multiplicity of religious beliefs and practices in the world.
Key Features
- A leading provider of quality education in the study of religions.
- A multi-denominational and interreligious staff
- Annual field trips to religious sites
- International educational visits and student exchanges
- Long tradition of teaching Religious Studies
- A leader in Wales of resources relating to Religious Studies
- Academic staff are renowned within their research fields
- Up-to-date teaching methods and facilities
- The School of Theology, Religious Studies and Islamic Studies has been recognized for its innovative programmes and its excellent use of e-resources.
Modules
- What is Religion?
- Introduction to Judaism and Christianity
- Asian Religious Traditions
- Introduction to Islam
- New Religious Movements
- International Study Tour
- Islam in the West
- Jews and Christians in Conflict and Dialogue
- Religion in Film
- New Age
- Teaching Religious Education
- Indian Religions in the West
- Sex and Violence: Religion in the Modern World
- Islam in the Contemporary World
- Satan and his World of Darkness
- Teaching the World's Religions
Course Tutor(s)
- Prof Bettina Schmidt
- Dr Robert Pope
- Dr Catrin Williams
- Dr Sarah Lewis
- Prof. Densil Morgan
- Dr Gary Bunt
- Dr Kathy Ehrensperger
Assessment
The School uses a wide range of assessment methods so that students develop a variety of skills that will stand them in good stead in the professional world. In addition to traditional essay assessments, the School uses portfolios, book reviews, textual analyses, individual and group presentations as well as examinations. For instance, on the School's popular study tours to religious sites, students are able to submit a learning journal of their experiences. Other modules require students to work together in groups, make presentations and creatively explore the interface between religion and the contemporary world.
Career Opportunities
A BA in Religious Studies is a highly desirable qualification in terms of engaging in a multi-cultural, multi-faith society. It is a sought after degree by employers who want staff to engage with a diverse cultural environment. Consequently, many of our students find employment and build careers in social services, counselling, nursing, policing, fire and rescue services. A number of students move onto a PGCE in primary or secondary Religious Education. Other students seek to add to their BA by pursuing postgraduate studies that involve an aspect of religion from the world's great traditions.
Trinity Saint David is widely recognized for mobilizing its students for the world of work. An active programme of employment-related activities is offered by Student Services; the School of Theology, Religious Studies and Islamic Studies regularly builds bridges for its students to employment-related activities endorsed by the University.
Each year Trinity Saint David is at or near the top of universities in Great Britain with the highest percentage of graduated students in work or seeking higher qualification.
Further Information
- Opportunity to develop independent research projects
- Opportunities to study abroad
- Excellent library facilities
- Opportunities for study days and tours; previous tours have included Israel-Palestine, Turkey and Rome.
Related Courses
- BA Theology and Religious Studies
- MRelSt Master of Religious Studies
- BA Theology, Religion and Applied Psychology
- BA Religious Studies and Islamic Studies
Tuition Fees
Annual tuition fees for entry in the academic year 2017/18 are as follows:
UK/EU: £9,000
International: £14,900
Tuition fees for years of study after your first year are subject to an increase of 3% for International students and at the capped fee rate as set by the UK Government for UK/EU students.
You can find further information on fees and how to pay on our Student Finance pages.
You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's Bursaries and Scholarships page
Additional Costs
There is an optional field trip connected to a module for second and third year students to visit religious sites first hand. The Faculty subsidises this trip but the cost each year is dependent on airfare, location, and currency exchange rates. The Faculty aims to keep the cost in the range £400-£700.
