Introduction
Divinity at Aberdeen focuses on the study of the Christian faith and tradition in the context of its history, institutions and its role today. Whether you have a personal, vocational or intellectual interest in learning more about the Christian faith, or want to explore the world’s major religions, Aberdeen is the place for you. You’ll acquire great transferable skills which open a wide range of career options.’
Divinity and Theology degrees at Aberdeen both concentrate on the study of Christian faith, life and doctrine in its historical, institutional and contemporary contexts. Historically the degree for professional ministry training, the Bachelor of Divinity degree now offers the most comprehensive and focussed programme of study for those interested in theology.
Divinity has been taught at Aberdeen since the university was founded in 1495. You will join an international community of students and leading academics carrying forward this 500+ years of tradition in the highest-quality teaching and researching in all aspects of theology and ministry and with close links to experts in all the world’s major religions.
You will explore the history of the church, the Old and New Testaments, practical theology and theological ethics and choose from 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.
You will get to grips with the ancient languages of Hebrew, Greek and Latin, study the Quran, Confucian and Daoist sacred texts, explore the anthropology and sociology of religion and examine the links between spirituality, health and healing.
In addition to ministry and other roles in the church, your career options will be wide due to the intellectual skills you’ve gained, media and journalism, public service and administration, the NGO sector, business, government service, publishing, education and research.
What You'll Study
- Year 1
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Year 1: Compulsory Courses
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD1002)
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This course, which is prescribed for level 1 undergraduate students and articulating students who are in their first year at the University, is studied entirely online, takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across the first 4 weeks of term.
Topics include University orientation overview, equality & diversity, MySkills, health, safety and cyber security, and academic integrity.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
- Theology from Jesus to Calvin: The History of Christian Thought (DR104B)
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15 Credit Points
How did the Jesus movement turn into the church? At what point did the church decide Jesus was God? How can God be one and three? What is heresy and why did it matter? How did Christianity relate to surrounding philosophy? Did theology develop and change? What were the sources for Christian thought and doctrine? The course introduces students to these questions through the rich history of Christian thought by considering a number of representative theological thinkers, such as Origen, Athanasius, Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, Luther and Calvin. Assessment is through weekly discussion boards, a short essay, and a final essay.
- Exploring the Ancient "holy Land" and Its People (DR104E)
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15 Credit Points
In this course you will explore the eastern Mediterranean in antiquity, focusing on its part to which ancient sources refer as the "Land of Israel" or "Palestine", among other names. You will learn not just about its history, but also geography, religion(s), culture, and languages – always in relation to its neighbours, close and distant alike. Your exploration will start with some of the oldest cities in the world, and finish with the advent of Islam to the region.
- The Practice of Biblical Interpretation (DR103V)
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15 Credit Points
What does it mean to read the Bible responsibly? This question is vitally relevant to anyone working closely with biblical texts, whether in academic study or in the context of faith communities who consider the biblical texts to be their Scriptures. This course will bring together the theory or philosophy of biblical interpretation with the associated methods and skills. Students will learn how the way we think about biblical interpretation has changed through the modern period and will learn how to implement the critical methods associated with the various theories. As well as acquiring and refining an interpretive skill-set that will immediately benefit their own engagement with the Bible, students will be exposed to theories of interpretation that are radically different to traditional approaches. Whether or not they agree with these, the knowledge will allow them to understand why other readers of Scripture hold very different beliefs about what is “biblical”.
- God, Sexualities and Identity (DR151W)
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15 Credit Points
This course considers the questions of gender, sexuality and identity are discussed and considered in relation to religion or the concept of God. The course will be delivered by a range of lecturers who will offer historical, philosophical, ethical and theological reflection on questions of identity as they relate to sexuality, CIS and non-CIS identity, genders and non-binary identity and associated issues at the heart of today’s world.
- Ancient Empires: Religion, Power and Politics (DR152A)
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15 Credit Points
This course will explore the rise and fall of Empires from the ancient world and beyond; examining to what extent religion, power struggles, conflict and politics impacted the shaping of an ancient Empire and the world today.
Year 1: Optional Courses
Plus 15 credit points from level 1 courses in Divinity, which may include one of the following courses:
- LT1009: Latin 1 (15 credits)
- LT1507: Latin 2 (15 credits)
Plus 30 credit points from courses of choice.
- Latin 1 (LT1009)
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15 Credit Points
Latin 1 is an introductory, intensive course for those with little or no previous exposure to Latin. Students completing this course should have a Latin vocabulary of about 400 words and a basic understanding of Latin grammar and syntax. Students successfully completing this course will be adequately prepared to attend Latin 2. Students will very likely discover that their knowledge of English vocabulary and grammar/syntax is improved by their study of Latin. The etymological roots of many English words can be traced to the Latin language.
- Latin 2 (LT1507)
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15 Credit Points
Latin 2 picks up where Latin 1 finished in first term. By the end of this course students should have a more or less comprehensive understanding of Latin syntax and grammar, a Latin vocabulary of 700-800 words, and should be capable of translating simple Latin texts into idiomatic English. Students will very likely discover that their knowledge of English vocabulary and grammar/syntax is improved by their study of Latin.
- Year 2
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Year 2: Compulsory Courses
- Theology from Jesus to Calvin: The History of Christian Thought (DR2067)
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15 Credit Points
How did the Jesus movement turn into the church? At what point did the church decide Jesus was God? How can God be one and three? What is heresy and why did it matter? How did Christianity relate to surrounding philosophy? Did theology develop and change? What were the sources for Christian thought and doctrine? The course introduces students to these questions through the rich history of Christian thought by considering a number of representative theological thinkers, such as Origen, Athanasius, Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, Luther and Calvin. Assessment is through weekly discussion boards, a short essay, and a final essay.
- Exploring the Ancient "holy Land" and Its People (DR204E)
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15 Credit Points
In this course you will explore the eastern Mediterranean in antiquity, focusing on its part to which ancient sources refer as the "Land of Israel" or "Palestine", among other names. You will learn not just about its history, but also geography, religion(s), culture, and languages – always in relation to its neighbours, close and distant alike. Your exploration will start with some of the oldest cities in the world, and finish with the advent of Islam to the region.
- The Practice of Biblical Interpretation (DR203V)
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15 Credit Points
What does it mean to read the Bible responsibly? This question is vitally relevant to anyone working closely with biblical texts, whether in academic study or in the context of faith communities who consider the biblical texts to be their Scriptures. This course will bring together the theory or philosophy of biblical interpretation with the associated methods and skills. Students will learn how the way we think about biblical interpretation has changed through the modern period and will learn how to implement the critical methods associated with the various theories. As well as acquiring and refining an interpretive skill-set that will immediately benefit their own engagement with the Bible, students will be exposed to theories of interpretation that are radically different to traditional approaches. Whether or not they agree with these, the knowledge will allow them to understand why other readers of Scripture hold very different beliefs about what is “biblical”.
- God, Sexualities and Identity (DR251W)
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15 Credit Points
This course considers the questions of gender, sexuality and identity are discussed and considered in relation to religion or the concept of God. The course will be delivered by a range of lecturers who will offer historical, philosophical, ethical and theological reflection on questions of identity as they relate to sexuality, CIS and non-CIS identity, genders and non-binary identity and associated issues at the heart of today’s world.
- Ancient Empires: Religion, Power and Politics (DR250A)
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15 Credit Points
This course will explore the rise and fall of Empires from the ancient world and beyond; examining to what extent religion, power struggles, conflict and politics impacted the shaping of an ancient Empire and the world today.
Year 2: Optional Courses
Select 15 credit points from level 2 Divinity courses of choice, plus 30 credit points from courses of choice.
- Year 3
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Year 3: Optional Courses
Select 90 credit points from Divinity courses of choice at level 3 or above, plus 30 credit points from courses of choice.
- Year 4
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Year 4: Compulsory Courses
- Dissertation (DR4544)
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30 Credit Points
This course involves the writing of a dissertation in one of the sub-disciplines in Divinity and Religious Studies. Independent Research work is done under the supervision of a member of staff. The dissertation is an extended essay, of no more than 10,000 words inclusive of references. Please note the 10,000 words does not include the bibliography.
Year 4: Optional Courses
Plus select 90 credit points from courses of choice, at least 60 of which must be from Divinity courses at level 4.
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page. In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips.
How You'll Study
Learning Methods
- Individual Projects
- Lectures
- Research
- Tutorials
Assessment Methods
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:
- Coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course.
- Practical assessments of the skills and competencies they learn on the course.
- Written examinations at the end of each course.
The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, years of study and individual courses.
Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
Why Study Divinity?
- Ranked 3rd in the UK for Theology and Religious Studies (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027)
- Bachelor of Divinity degree accredited by the Church of Scotland. If you'd like to learn more about Church of Scotland ministry vocations.
- Ranked 10th in the UK for Positive Responses in Theology and Religious Studies (National Student Survey 2026)
- Over 91.2% of DHPA graduates are in employment or further study 15 months after graduation. (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026)
- An international community of eminent professors, including leading author and influential thinker Stanley Hauerwas, Professor of Theological Ethics.
- A wide variety of courses: from biblical languages to the Reformation in Scotland and from Buddhist philosophy to the stories of the prophets in Islam.
- Specialist research and teaching centres include the Aberdeen Centre for Protestant Theology (ACPT), the Centre for Ministry Studies, the Centre for Spirituality, Health and Disability and the Kairos Forum for people with cognitive or intellectual disabilities.
- Aberdeen has produced many notable Aberdeen scholars and theologians, including John Forbes, George Campbell, William Milligan, William Robertson Smith, David S. Cairns, G. D. Henderson, Darrell L. Bock, Donald A. Hagner, Craig Blomberg, and Joel B. Green.
- The inspiration for the beautiful King’s College Chapel, begun in 1495 by University founder Bishop Elphinstone, a treasure-house of history and religious turbulence and today a precious inter-faith space for a multi-faith university community.
- Major international treasures in the Library’s Special Collections Centre, including the archives of the Roman Catholic Church in Scotland pre-1878 and fascinating local records of local estates and families dating from the Middle Ages.
- Spectacular, award-winning Sir Duncan Rice Library, combines top-class study facilities with state-of-the-art technology and the dedicated Divinity Library with an extensive collection of theological material.
- A packed campus programme of student and public events, including theological lectures, café discussions, exhibitions, seminars, and the annual May Festival, attracting thousands to discuss and debate with high profile speakers, scientists, authors and broadcasters the big issues facing our world today.
Interested in this programme?
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
General Entry Requirements
- 2026 Entry
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SQA Highers
Standard: Applicants that present with BBBB, will usually receive an unconditional offer. Where we have more applicants than places we may need to ask for more than the minimum so continued engagement in school is recommended.
Religious, Moral & Philosophical Studies is preferred.
Widening Access: Applicants who meet one or more of our widening access metrics and present with BBC, are guaranteed an unconditional offer.
Foundation Apprenticeship: One FA is equivalent to a Higher at A. It cannot replace any required subjects.
Note: We do not double count a Higher and Advanced Higher in the same subject, but we do consider that a B grade at Advanced Higher is equivalent to an A grade at Higher.
National 5 in English (or equivalent) at Grade C or above is also required.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBC.
Religious Studies is preferred.Widening Access: Three A Levels at CCC for applicants who meet one or more widening access criteria.
GCSE English or English Literature at Grade C/4 or above is also required.
BTEC LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA
DMM in related subjects.
Note: BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate (Subsidiary Diploma), achieved at Distinction level, is normally acceptable in lieu of one A-Level at grade B.
GCSE English or English Literature at Grade C/4 or above is also required.
IRISH LEAVING CERTIFICATE
Five subjects at Higher at H3.
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE
32 points or above at HL 5, 5, 5.
SL English is also required.
- 2027 Entry
-
SQA Highers
Standard: Applicants that present with BBBB, will usually receive an unconditional offer. Where we have more applicants than places we may need to ask for more than the minimum so continued engagement in school is recommended.
Religious, Moral & Philosophical Studies is preferred.
Widening Access: Applicants who meet one or more of our widening access metrics and present with BBC, are guaranteed an unconditional offer.
Foundation Apprenticeship: One FA is equivalent to a Higher at A. It cannot replace any required subjects.
Note: We do not double count a Higher and Advanced Higher in the same subject, but we do consider that a B grade at Advanced Higher is equivalent to an A grade at Higher.
National 5 in English (or equivalent) at Grade C or above is also required.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBC.
Religious Studies is preferred.Widening Access: Three A Levels at CCC for applicants who meet one or more widening access criteria.
GCSE English or English Literature at Grade C/4 or above is also required.
BTEC LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA
DMM in related subjects.
Note: BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate (Subsidiary Diploma), achieved at Distinction level, is normally acceptable in lieu of one A-Level at grade B.
GCSE English or English Literature at Grade C/4 or above is also required.
IRISH LEAVING CERTIFICATE
Five subjects at Higher at H3.
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE
32 points or above at HL 5, 5, 5.
SL English is also required.
The information displayed in this section shows a shortened summary of our entry requirements. For more information, or for full entry requirements for Divinity and Theology degrees, see our detailed entry requirements section.
Fees and Funding
You will be classified as one of the fee categories below.
- EU / International students
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- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year
- £20,800
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year (Self-funded Students *)
- £14,800
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The above fee includes the £6,000 Aberdeen Global Scholarship provided to self-funded international students. Full terms and conditions apply.
- Home Students
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- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year
- £1,820
- England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland
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- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year
- £9,790
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The UK Government has confirmed that the RUK fee cap will continue to increase each year to reflect inflation. Tuition fees will increase in line with the Government fee cap each year, and this should be taken into account when budgeting.
Scholarships and Funding
UK Scholarship
Students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who pay tuition fees may be eligible for specific scholarships allowing them to receive additional funding. These are designed to provide assistance to help students support themselves during their time at Aberdeen.
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
The University of Aberdeen is delighted to offer eligible self-funded international on-campus undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for every year of their programme. More about this funding opportunity.
Funding Database
View all funding options in our Funding Database.
Careers
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 and Employability 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 and Employability Service
Ranked 10th in the UK for Positive Responses
In Theology and Religious Studies, National Student Survey 2026
Useful Fact about this Degree
Ranked 3rd in the UK for Theology and Religious Studies (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027)
Our Experts
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
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Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
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Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX