Christian Theology (M.Phil. / P.Grad.Dip.)

Overview

Christian Theology enables participants to gain an in-depth knowledge of core issues in contemporary Christian theology. Students are introduced to historical scholarship and to rigorous contemporary theological investigation. 

The focus on theological studies of the highest academic standing prepares students to contribute to public debates on theological issues in contemporary societies.

Whether your background is as a graduate in theology or other related disciplines, the course offers a structured programme of study at an advanced level. 

Programme offerings would be of interest to:

 Those who have an interest in theological questions. It will help students to become better informed and more articulate in Christian theology; 

 Chaplains, pastoral workers, and others engaged in Church ministry, as it will provide an ideal opportunity for further in-depth reading, writing and study of the core disciplines of theology, in a way that furthers professional development; 

 Teachers of religious education, as it provides an excellent opportunity to explore theological issues at a deeper level, so benefitting teachers and their students;

 For students looking to do advanced research, as it can provide a suitable route into higher study in theology.

Christian Theology M.Phil. - One-Year, Full-time; Two-Years, Part-time.

Structure

The course incorporates both taught and research components. Students must take six taught modules (10 ECTS each) comprising three Core and three Optional modules and write a 15,000 – 20,000 word dissertation (30 ECTS). Students are assessed via written contributions for each module. Core modules include: Violence and Grace in the Human Narrative; The First Words: Theology/ies of the Bible; Readings in Classical Theological Text. Optional modules may vary from year to year.

Christian Theology Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip.) - One Year, Full-time.

Structure

Students study six modules (60 ECTS) - choose four core and two optional modules. The course is taught over two semesters, September to April. Core modules: Readings in Classical Theological Texts; Jesus of Nazareth: Son, Christ, Word; Violence and Grace in the Human Narrative; First Words: Theology/ies of the Bible. Optional modules may vary from year to year.

Postgraduate Framework Degree Options: 

Christian Theology: PG Certificate, PG Diploma and M.Phil. 

The Christian Theology course can also be done following a three-year framework route from PG Certificate to PG Diploma to MPhil. In year one, at Postgraduate Certificate level, students complete three required modules (2 Core modules and 1 Optional module) to develop a basic understanding of the core issues in contemporary Christian theology (30 ECTS). Students may exit with the PG Certificate award or progress to the Postgraduate Diploma Year 2 Top-Up to continue their studies. 

In year two, at the Postgraduate Diploma level, students complete 3 modules (2 Core modules and 1 Optional module) to gain a thorough grounding in contemporary Christian theology (30 ECTS). Students may exit with the PG Dip. or may progress to the 1-year Masters’ Top-Up programme. 

In year three, at the M.Phil. level, students will have the opportunity to apply what they have learned in their coursework through the development of a 15,000 – 20,000 word research dissertation (30 ECTS). 

Lectures will normally take place on Monday and Thursday evenings, however, some optional modules may be timetabled to take place during the day. 

Scholarships: Please see the following link: 

Scholarships - The Loyola Institute - Trinity College Dublin (tcd.ie)

Career Opportunities 

For teachers of religious education, this course provides an excellent opportunity to explore theological issues at a deeper level, so benefiting them and theirstudents. While the M.Phil. is designed to be complete in itself, it can serve as preparation for those wishing to proceed to further research in the field. Students will learn research skills, as well as analytic, written and verbal communication skills. These are highly valued and effective in a great variety of careers.