Theology

Whether you have a personal, vocational or intellectual interest in a deeper knowledge of the Christian faith, its sources and its history, or are interested in exploring the historical, social and political development of the world's religions, Aberdeen is the place for you.

Why Aberdeen?

• A tradition of theological study and excellence going back to 1495.
• A vast array of courses including, Biblical languages, the history of the Church in the West, the Reformation in Scotland, classical and contemporary Christian doctrine, the role of religion in ethical and political debates, and religious aspects of disability.
• An international community of scholars, studying all aspects of theology, ministry, and close links to religious studies specialists.
• Excellent library facilities, beautiful surroundings, and a warm welcome!

Programmes

Accreditation

The Bachelor of Divinity and Bachelor of Theology degrees have been accredited by the Church of Scotland.

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

Divinity Structure

These are the courses currently running, however they may be subject to change:

First Year

Church History (The Rise of Christianity 0-600); Hebrew Language I; Introduction to the Hebrew Bible; Systematic Theology (Christian Belief: Its Critics and Defenders); New Testament (Earliest Portraits of Jesus: Introduction to the Gospels; Elementary Greek I & II); Basics of World Religions.

Second Year

Church History & Systematic Theology (The European Reformation: Practical Theology (Christian Doctrine and Practice); New Testament What is Truth? John's Gospel and Letters - English or Greek texts; Paul of Tarsus - English or Greek texts); Encountering Buddhism; Critical Methods of Old Testament Study (English or Hebrew texts); Old Testament Theology (English or Hebrew texts); Medieval Christianity 500-1500.

Third & Fourth Year (Honours)

Church History (Luther, Calvin and the Shaping of Protestantism; Reformation and Revolutions; The Theology of the Early Church; Scottish Theology); Hebrew Bible III & IV; Practical Theology (Spirituality, Health and Healing; Exploring the Tradition of Christian Ethics; Theological and Pastoral Perspectives on the Family); Systematic Theology (Contemporary Issues in Christian Doctrine; The Nature of Theology); New Testament (Set Texts; Advanced Greek; The Historical Background of the New Testament); Gospels and Acts - Selected Texts (Greek or English); New Testament Epistles (Greek or English); The World of the New Testament.

Students studying for the BTh in Theology also have access to a wide range of Religious Studies courses.

Teaching and Assessment

The School emphasises a flexible approach to teaching and assessment, utilising a combination of small and large group teaching assessed through examinations, essays and presentations. Honours students write a dissertation on a subject of their choice approved by a supervisor.

Careers

Our graduates have found employment in a wide range of areas, including the church, the media, journalism, teaching, administration, government and publishing.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Theology.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - 4H at BBBB or 3AH at BCC
S at levels 1, 2 or 3 in English.
A Levels - BBB
GCSE in English or English Language
IB - SL in English 30 points including an average of 5 at HL
ILC - 4H at BBBB O in English

Advanced Entry For those seeking entry into second year classes, with a view to taking an accelerated Honours degree, the normal requirement will be BC at H plus A at AH or 2AH at AB. This must include AH at A in Religious Studies. Where a combination of H and AH has been studied, individual subjects will be counted at one level only. For A level students the normal requirement must include A Level at A in Religious Studies.

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide