Death, Religion and Culture, University of Winchester

The programme attracts a diverse range of students from funeral directors, clergy from a variety of traditions, teachers and those preparing for a research degree as well as a range of people who are simply fascinated by the subject. Study provides a view of historical and current approaches to death and dying, disposal and bereavement rituals, enabling a meeting of professional groups and students with particular interests in this area of speciality. Students undertake core modules as part of the programme and choose from a range of optional death-related modules.ModulesCore modules include: Contemporary Approaches to Death and Dying Research Methods Postgraduate Seminar & Death in Visual Culture Independent Study Optional modules include: Death and Martyrdom Death in the Christian Tradition Death in World Religions The Pastoral Care of the Dying and BereavedLearning and TeachingStudents undertake structured discussion, debate and student presentations. Visits to local crematoria, cemeteries, mortuaries and funeral directors are an essential aspect of the programme, which also benefits from guest lecturers from the death industries, a variety of religious traditions and public services. The programme is taught by a team of highly qualified and enthusiastic staff who include internationally renowned scholars.AssessmentTypes of assessment used include a review of practical activities such as presentations, alongside more traditional methods of assessment such as essays and the dissertation. There are no examinations.DissertationStudents complete a dissertation of 15,000-20,000 words on a subject of their choice within the realms of religion and death. It is a substantial piece of independent research and full tutorial support is provided.