Religious Studies and Theology is an academic field that is concerned with the study of the supernatural, sacred, ritual practices and values or associated institutions in society. Through research, the study captures the sociological and psychological impact of ancient and modern religious movements, its different approaches and its place in history.

Religious Studies and Theology is especially ideal for those students who are fascinated by big ideas, how certain beliefs influence lives or by sacred texts and their interpretation. Religious Studies offers breadth and depth in its study of world religions from different perspectives and literacy in religious thought and practice is important as it has the potential to foster respect and tolerance based on knowledge rather than assumptions.

Studying Religious Studies and Theology allows students to analyse scriptures, concepts and arguments and it requires rigorous thinking and the ability to interpret data concisely. Students will also learn how to discuss key concepts and access their relevance and validity with other students as well as the ability to respect the beliefs of others and to interact with those who hold opposing views.

Study levels:

Studying Religious Studies and Theology enables students to explore different religious traditions using a range of approaches and methods depending on the course which is offered at the undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral level as well as certificate courses and diplomas and these include:

• Bachelor of Arts in Religion (Hons)
• Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (Hons)
• Bachelor of Religious Studies
• Bachelor of Theology
• Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies
• Bachelor of Arts in Theological and Religious Studies
• Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Theology
• Bachelor of Arts in Religion, Philosophy and Ethics (Hons)
• Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Culture
• Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Theology
• Bachelor of Science in Theology (Hons)
• Master of Arts in Theology
• Master of Arts in Philosophy
• Master of Arts in Philosophy and Religion
• Master of Arts in Religious Studies
• Master of Arts in Theology and Religious Studies
• Master of Arts in Religion, Philosophy and Ethics
• Postgraduate Diploma in Theology and Religious Studies
• Ph.D., MPhil in Religious Studies

Specialisations:

Religious Studies and Theology tries to approach the study of religious behaviour from a different, unbiased viewpoint and examine the information at hand under various specialisations which includes:

• Anthropology of Religion
• Economics of Religion
• History of Religion
• Psychology of Religion
• Philosophy of Religion
• Geography of Religion
• Sociology of Religion
• Protestant Theology
• Christian Theology
• Historical and Systematic Theology
• Christian Studies
• Indian Philosophy and Religion
• Moral theology and ethics
• Eastern and Indian Christian Spirituality
• Spirituality and religion
• Cultural Studies
• Practical Theology
• Divinity Studies
• Pastoral Theology

Employability:

Whether in India or abroad, after pursuing a degree in Religious Studies and Theology, graduates can build highly rewarding careers. Those whose interests lie in research can find employment in research or teaching positions, while more career-oriented candidates can launch into the job sector immediately after graduation.

Graduates have several job opportunities available to them in numerous sectors such as colleges and schools, charity organisations, churches, museums, NGOs and many more and job profiles include:

• Religious teacher
• Lecturer
• Bible Translator
• Assistant Professor
• Children Pastor
• Community Development Worker
• Advice Worker
• Mediator
• Counsellor
• Aid Worker
• Civil Service Worker
• Chaplain