Introduction
Theology and Religious Studies at Aberdeen includes both the study of Christian faith, life and doctrine in its historical, cross-cultural and contemporary contexts, and the comparative study of the major religious traditions of the world. You will focus on the origin, function, and meaning of religion, and gain a wide range of career options, in addition to ministry.
Whether you have a vocational or intellectual interest in knowing more about the Christian faith, or are interested in exploring the historical, social and political development of the world’s religions, Aberdeen is the place for you.
We concentrate on the study of Christian faith, life and doctrine in its historical, institutional and contemporary contexts, with research and teaching in church history, Old Testament, New Testament, practical theology, theological ethics, systematic and theology.
You will gain a sound understanding of Christianity including its historical development and contemporary importance through courses such as 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, religious aspects of disability, and religious rituals.
You will study holistically the major religions of the world, including Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and ancestral cults of Africa, Siberia and the Caribbean.
As a graduate you will be highly employable in a wide range of roles, including in churches, media and journalism, public service and administration, the NGO sector, business, government, publishing, education, and research.
You will enjoy all the benefits of learning and living in our friendly and vibrant international community, on our beautiful campus with great facilities for learning, sports and leisure, and many opportunities to develop the extra skills to boost your career options, and broaden your horizons through study abroad.
Why Study Religious Studies at Aberdeen?
- 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.
- An international community of eminent professors, including leading author and influential thinker Stanley Hauerwas, Professor of Theological Ethics.
- Specialist research and teaching centres include the Aberdeen University 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 and GD Henderson.
- Major historic treasures of national and international significance, including the archives of the Roman Catholic Church in Scotland pre-1878 and fascinating local records of local estates and families through 500 years of religious turmoil.
- Spectacular, award-winning Sir Duncan Rice Library, combining top-class study facilities with state-of-the-art technology, and the beautiful Divinity Library with an extensive collection of theological material.
- A packed campus programme of events, including theological lectures, café discussions, exhibitions, seminars, and the annual May Festival with high profile speakers, scientists, authors and broadcasters debating big issues facing the world today.
- The inspiration of 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.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
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Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX