MA Religion and the Common Good

The MA Religion and the Common Good programme is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the complex relationships between religion, ethics, and society. The course explores how religious beliefs and practices shape individual and collective identities, inform moral values and ethical decision-making, and contribute to social change. Students will engage with a variety of texts, traditions, and theories to analyze the role of religion in shaping the common good. They will also develop critical thinking skills, research methods, and written communication abilities essential for advanced study or professional work in fields related to religion and society.

Additional Information

The programme is ideal for students who wish to pursue careers in areas such as religious education, social policy, community development, and interfaith dialogue. It also provides a solid foundation for those interested in further research in the field.

Discover the Unique Learning Opportunities at Canterbury Christ Church University

Canterbury Christ Church University offers a unique learning environment that fosters critical thinking, interdisciplinary approaches, and a commitment to social responsibility. The university's location in Canterbury, a city steeped in religious history, provides students with access to a rich cultural heritage and opportunities for engagement with local communities.

As well as providing a postgraduate qualification in theology and religious studies, the MA Religion and the Common Good develops knowledge and understanding relevant to charity and community work, to hospitals and other types of chaplaincy, as well as to educational institutions and the school sector. A special route award, MA in Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care are available to those seeking to study carefully designed modules of special relevance to the role of the chaplaincy today.

The course is made up of a carefully designed curriculum covering key areas of study. You will begin with a study of Religion and the Common Good, Interfaith Dialogue, and Contemporary Religious Thought. These led to the study of Moral Philosophy and Applied Ethics, Critical Spirituality and Reflective Practice, and Biblical Interpretation. Finally, students complete a dissertation on a relevant topic. Each module has been deliberately designed to enable expertly-informed reflection on faith and the common good.

The course is a significant qualification in its own right, but if you wish to pursue further study it will also give you the opportunity to progress to a Ph.D. The research and writing skills you’ll gain will enhance your employability relevant to careers in well-being and spiritual care, teaching, and charitable organizations.

A 2:2 honors degree, in Theology, Religious Studies, or a relevant subject discipline. Holders of other qualifications will be considered individually.

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.